Skovby: Hiking on the Gendarmstien

Skovby is a practical starting point for hiking enthusiasts: hikers can begin the Gendarmstien here, with its Mølle stage running from Skovby to Høruphav. Nearby is Kærneland, one of the best bathing beaches in Sønderborg Municipality. If you are looking for a hotel in Skovby, you can choose between different kinds of trips: a hike along a longer coastal trail or a stay that also includes a visit to the beach.

Gendarmstien: starting point and stages

The Gendarmstien is an 84-kilometre hiking trail through varied natural landscapes, following much of the route once taken by former border patrols along the coast. It runs mostly along the coast and through forests, marshes, and meadows. The coastal route and varied landscape provide practical reference points when choosing a stage. The trail is signposted in both directions. Hikers can start in Skovby; the Mølle stage runs from Skovby to Høruphav, and the Gendarmstien runs via Høruphav to Skovby on Als. The Mølle stage refers to the Skovby–Høruphav section, while 84 kilometres describes the Gendarmstien as a whole. When planning, you can therefore distinguish a specifically named stage from the entire route.

Compare the Gendarmstien and the Alsstien

The Alsstien is another hiking trail on the island of Als. At 64 kilometres, it is 20 kilometres shorter than the Gendarmstien. It runs along the coast and through fields and forests; the Gendarmstien also passes through marshes and meadows, and its description highlights the traces of former border patrols. This gives you more than just a difference in length to consider: the trails also differ in their described landscapes and in the Gendarmstien’s historical connection. If you prefer a shorter route, the Alsstien is shorter in this comparison. If the connection to the former border patrols matters to you, the Gendarmstien offers it.

Kærneland and seasonal dates

Kærneland, one of the best bathing beaches in Sønderborg Municipality, is near Skovby. There is free parking at Kærneland Beach with no time limit; parking is at your own risk. Check the parking conditions again before your visit, as they may vary by season. The beach adds a swimming option for travellers who are considering spending time at the beach as well as hiking.

Skovby by Night takes place on two Thursdays in calendar weeks 29 and 30. The event offers numerous activities for children and may interest travellers who want to take children’s activities into account when choosing their dates. The exact dates may vary from year to year; check the dates for the relevant year before planning your trip.

A local description from May 2023 mentions fishing at Skovby Landing. If you plan to fish there, check the current access and local conditions before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Oksbøl, Bredsten, Kettingskov, Nordborg, Rønshoved, Gråsten, Langesø, Rinkenæs

For the broader travel overview: Sønderborg Municipality.