Lodskovvad – Dune Landscape and Trails

If you are looking for hotels in Lodskovvad, your interest in nature and trails can shape your travel plans. Lodskovvad Mile, Råbjerg Mile and Bunken Dune Plantation offer different landscapes and recreational opportunities. Local rules, seasonal wildlife sightings and timetables also apply to specific places or times.

Dunes and wildlife watching

In Lodskovvad Mile, open grey dunes alternate with stands of conifers. It is among the higher coastal dunes in the northern part of Råbjerg Parish. Råbjerg Mile is Denmark’s largest migrating dune and one of the largest of its kind in Europe. It covers almost one square kilometre and contains four million cubic metres of sand; it also has EU Special Area of Conservation status. The two dune areas therefore offer different landscapes: at Lodskovvad Mile, the defining feature is the change between open areas and stands of trees, while Råbjerg Mile is notable for its vast expanse as a migrating dune.

Mile Lakes lie south of Råbjerg Mile. Cranes, whimbrels and great crested grebes are among the birds that can be seen there. Sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed. A survey during the 2024 breeding season recorded ten pairs of woodlarks in the Lodskovvad–Råbjerg area; this figure refers to the survey conducted that year.

Trails through Bunken Dune Plantation

The national cycle routes Vestkyststien and Østkystruten pass through Bunken Dune Plantation. Vestkyststien runs through the plantation, follows Råbjergvej from the southwest along the plantation’s western edge, and continues to the southern edge of Råbjerg Mile. The North Vendsyssel riding route also passes through Bunken Dune Plantation. The named routes differ in how they are used, while each of the routes mentioned passes through the plantation.

There is also a blue hiking route in Bunken Dune Plantation for walks; it runs through the central part of the plantation. Before setting out, check the route page for temporary warnings. Bunken Trinbræt stop on the Skagen Line is a good starting point for walks in the plantation. Check current train services before travelling.

Visitor rules and activities

In the communal areas of Lodskovvad, you may walk from 6 a.m. until sunset, including away from the woodchip paths and on the work tracks along the ditches. Motor vehicles are not permitted on paths in these communal areas. Dogs must be kept on a leash everywhere in these areas. The 44-hectare Døde Skov in Bunken Dune Plantation is different: dogs are welcome off leash in this unfenced dog forest.

Fishing is permitted in Lillesø and Birkesø; where required, you must have a valid fishing licence. Paddesø, by contrast, was created to provide good living conditions for frogs and toads and has never been stocked with fish or ducks. These differences are important when choosing a body of water if you want to include fishing or habitat protection in your plans.

Beaches and getting there

There are bathing beaches at Bunken and Hulsig that are also suitable for young children. Behind the dunes, you will find sheltered, shady areas and green spaces for play and ball games. Check the latest bathing safety notices.

The summer bus route 99 stops at Bunken Camping and Råbjerg Church; from there, you can continue on foot to Råbjerg Mile and Bunken Dune Plantation. Check the current summer timetable before travelling. This lets you plan your journey using the listed stops and seasonal timetable arrangements.

Another historical landmark is Aalbæk Bay Coastal Battery, also known as Aalbækbugt Batteri. It was a defensive installation with 13 concrete bunkers.

Discover more destinations: Østervrå, Kvissel, Kandestederne, Sæby, Jerup, Strandby, Napstjært, Hulsig

For the overarching travel guide: Frederikshavn Municipality.