Top 7 Lakes in Odense
Best lakes in Odense are found within a city known for its green spaces and waterways. The area provides both accessible urban lakes and more expansive natural retreats in its vicinity. These lakes are often set within diverse landscapes, including recreational forests and historic castle grounds, offering various outdoor activities.
Best lakes in Odense
- The most popular lakes is View of Ulriksholm Castle and Kerteminde Fjord, a viewpoint that offers views of the Kerteminde Fjord and Ulriksholm Castle. This spot serves as a resting place on cycle route 45.
- Another must-see spot is Mermaid Statue and Lake in Odense Park, a lake featuring a mermaid sculpture. Visitors can observe the bronze sculpture by Hans Pauli Olsen, which was unveiled in 1998.
- Visitors also love Dallund Castle, a historical site with an impressive 16th-century castle building. A walk around the beautiful lake in front of the castle is possible.
- Odense is known for its forest lakes, castle lakes, and urban lakes. The region offers a variety of water bodies to explore, from those integrated into city parks to larger natural retreats.
- The lakes in Odense are appreciated by the komoot community. Users have contributed 10 photos and given 25 upvotes to highlights in this guide.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Mermaid Statue and Lake in Odense Park
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Dallund Castle
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View of Ulriksholm Castle and Kerteminde Fjord
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Lake Langesø
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Sybergland
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Tips from the Community
Langesø is a tunnel valley lake famous for its 3-kilometre circular path that winds through a forest of century-old conifers. The estate features the elegant 18th-century Langesø Castle and a lakeside chapel. It is a popular destination for both quiet walks and active sports like mountain biking.
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Odense is a fairytale city. In the parks or along the roadsides, you will see a total of 16 sculptures and statues depicting characters from Andersen's fairytales. Here by the lake, the mermaid appears.
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The Sybergland nature reserve on the outskirts of Kerteminde is great for hiking. Look forward to wonderful nature experiences. For example, the views of the water are superb.
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The mermaid is a mythical and magical creature who lures people to their deaths with her song and beautiful body. This mermaid stands on a 3-4 meter high base, allowing us to view her from the depths of the ocean. Another distinctive feature of the sculpture is the abnormal head-to-body ratio. However, this is a result of the water's reflection, which occurs when looking up from the depths. The sculpture is made of bronze, and the base is granite. It was unveiled on June 20, 1998. The mermaid's body displays sexual energy, emphasized by the slightly separated legs and the noticeable genitals, which are only gathered near the feet in a fin. The intensity of her sexuality is highlighted as something raw and dangerous, something to which one can immerse oneself. The sculpture's expression is almost the antithesis of the traditional understanding of the conventional innocence and beauty of the mermaid. Hans Pauli Olsen (1957-) was born in the Faroe Islands. Many of his sculptures focus on human forms, often with a mystical, underlying quality. They are expressive and naturalistic in their depiction. Many of his creations are made in clay before being cast in bronze. This process makes the artist's creative process clearly visible in the final sculpture. Coordinates: Longitude: 10.3826808929443 Latitude: 55.3907999313141 https://www.visitodense.de/turist/reiseplanung/die-meerjungfrau-skulptur-gdk1077447
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See the impressive white castle building in Dallund from the 16th century - and walk around the beautiful lake in front of the castle!
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See the impressive white castle building at Dallund, which dates back to the 16th century - and take a walk around the beautiful lake in front of the castle.
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Nice resting place on cycle route 45 with a view of the Kerteminde Fjord and Ulriksholm Castle, which was completed in 1645.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes in Odense for visitors?
Visitors often enjoy Mermaid Statue and Lake in Odense Park, known for its unique mermaid sculpture and connection to Hans Christian Andersen's fairytales. Another favorite is the area around Dallund Castle, where you can walk around a beautiful lake in front of an impressive 16th-century castle.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Odense?
Yes, several lakes in and around Odense are great for families. Mermaid Statue and Lake in Odense Park is popular for its sculpture and park setting. Ringe Lake, located in the town center, offers good water quality for bathing and fishing, with benches and meadows for relaxation. The area around Lake Langesø also provides family-friendly trails and activities.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Odense's lakes?
The lakes in Odense offer various outdoor activities. You can enjoy leisurely walks and bike rides around Skovsøen. Lake Langesø is excellent for hiking and mountain biking, with dedicated trails through deep forests. You can also rent boats for a peaceful trip on Langesø, with or without fishing. For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous routes nearby, including those featured in the Cycling in Odense guide.
Are there historical sites or landmarks near the lakes?
Absolutely. Dallund Castle is a prominent historical site, featuring an impressive 16th-century castle building right by a beautiful lake. Near Lake Langesø, you'll find the elegant 18th-century Langesø Castle and a lakeside chapel. Additionally, the View of Ulriksholm Castle and Kerteminde Fjord offers a glimpse of the historic Ulriksholm Castle.
Which lakes are best for walking or hiking?
Skovsøen (The Forest Lake) in Fruens Bøge is ideal for leisurely walks, surrounded by recreational forest. For a more extensive experience, Lake Langesø offers a 3-kilometer circular path winding through a forest of century-old conifers, perfect for hiking. You can also take a pleasant walk around the lake in front of Dallund Castle.
Can I go mountain biking near Odense's lakes?
Yes, mountain biking is a popular activity, especially around Lake Langesø. While cycling is restricted on the path directly around the lake to maintain a peaceful atmosphere for pedestrians, dedicated mountain biking trails are available in the surrounding forests. You can find more routes in the Gravel biking in Odense guide.
Are there any lakes suitable for swimming or bathing?
Ringe Lake, located in the center of Ringe town, is known for its good water quality and allows bathing. Its shores also offer benches and meadows for relaxing breaks.
What natural features can I expect to see around Odense's lakes?
The lakes are set within diverse natural landscapes. Skovsøen is surrounded by 24 hectares of recreational forest. Lake Langesø is nestled in a tunnel valley, featuring ice-age formations and magnificent giant fir trees. The area also includes Langesø Dyrehave, a deer park with North American coniferous trees.
Is there public transport available to reach the lakes?
Skovsøen (The Forest Lake) is conveniently located within Odense in Fruens Bøge, making it easily accessible by public transport within the city. For lakes further afield like Langesø, you might need to combine public transport with a shorter walk or bike ride, or consider driving.
Are there facilities like cafes or toilets near the lakes?
Near Skovsøen, you can find the Waffle House Skovsøen, especially popular in the summer. At Lake Langesø, public toilets are available at the Waffle House in the area, and there are options for refreshments.
What is the best time of year to visit Odense's lakes?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for walks, picnics, and boat rentals, with events like the Odense Summer Revy and Sankt Hans bonfires at Skovsøen. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, and even in winter, the serene landscapes can be captivating for a quiet stroll, though specific activities might be limited.
Can I combine a lake visit with other attractions?
Yes, many lakes are close to other points of interest. Skovsøen is a short distance from Den Fynske Landsby (The Funen Village), an open-air museum, and serves as the terminus for the popular Odense Aafart river cruise. The area around Lake Langesø includes Langesø Castle, adding a historical dimension to your visit.
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