Between the Belt and the Fjord (21,7 km)
The journey begins at Nyborg harbor – just a stone's throw from Nyborg's center with its castle, church, great cafes, and charming shopping streets. Here, ferries once sailed, connecting Nyborg and Funen with Zealand. Since the Middle Ages, Nyborg has been a ferry town on the Great Belt, and the sea has left its mark on Nyborg over the centuries.
Kongens Skibsbro
At Nyborg harbor, you'll find Kongens Skibsbro, built in 1548 by King Christian III for his grand arrivals to his residence city. Today, Kongens Skibsbro is still used as the royal docking point. On the quay, you'll see the "Forsavn" monument, honoring Nyborg sailors who perished in World War II.
Nyborg’s Ferry Docks
Nyborg's history is deeply intertwined with ferries. Kongens Skibsbro was home to Nyborg's first car ferry terminal, operating well into the 1950s. Your route takes you past the old railway ferry docks and later through the ferry harbor at Knudshoved peninsula. Of course, you'll also pass under the iconic Great Belt Bridge, a modern marvel that replaced the ferries and is now one of Denmark's most impressive structures. The high bridge is the world's 3rd longest suspension bridge, which is just one of several impressive records. Before reaching the bridge, you'll pass the Nyborg Distillery, housed in the historic DSB workshops near the old ferry harbor.
From Ferries to Eco-industries
As you leave Nyborg, consider a detour to the Knudshoved district, which emerged as the city expanded. Explore Nyborg's modern harbor industrial zone. While not idyllic, it's undeniably fascinating. This route takes you through a hub of world-class environmental companies and a state-of-the-art deep-water harbor. Fortum, formerly Kommunekemi, is a global leader in hazardous waste management, and Elysium Nordic is set to become a major player in tire recycling. These are just a few of the many businesses leveraging the Great Belt and deep-water harbor.
Slipshavn and Knudshoved
You'll now pedal past St. Knud's Golf Club, where golfers tee off against the stunning backdrop of Nyborg Fjord as the sun sets. Next, head to Slipshavn. This was Nyborg's original harbor in the 13th and 14th centuries. Today, the Home Guard is based here, and you can enjoy breathtaking views and a leisurely stroll. Continue to Knudshoved and discover Knudshoved Lighthouse, 'knaldfyret' - a historic landmark, and a protected nature reserve. Take a break at the lighthouses and soak up the view of the Great Belt from the benches.
The Great Belt Bridge
The Great Belt Bridge connects Funen and Zealand and consists of two bridges and a undersea tunnel. The East Bridge is the world's third longest suspension bridge and Denmark's highest point. The entire crossing is nearly 18 km long. Consider stopping beneath the West or Low Bridge. A staircase leads to a viewing platform where you can enjoy this engineering marvel up close. Hear the traffic roar overhead while taking in views of the old ferry harbor to the south and the stunning coastline to the north, including Funen's widest man-made beach, created during the bridge's construction.
Beaches and Beachfront Hotels
Nyborg's beaches have been awarded multiple Blue Flags, and there are countless swimming spots along the entire coastline. Year after year, these beaches rank among Denmark's best. From Fyns Badestrand - the largest and widest beach on Funen - to the smaller, more secluded beaches in front of the city's grand hotels. Whether you're into windsurfing or winter swimming, there is no excuse for forgetting your swimsuit regardless of the season.
Moats and Water Tower
Returning to Nyborg's medieval heart, you'll pass along the ancient moat. Dating back to the 1300s, the moats once served as defensive barriers, a water supply, and a sewage system. Today, Nyborg Ramparts is a popular recreational area, hosting numerous events and activities throughout the year. The Water Tower, built in 1899, stands on Dronningens Bastion. Enjoy free admission to the tower during select periods, including summer art exhibitions. From the tower and its surroundings, admire the view of the moats, castle lake, and Nyborg harbor with its marina.
Nyborg Marina
From Nyborg Ramparts, you make a quick stop at the idyllic Holckenhavn Fjord, which borders Nyborg city to the south. Here, Vindinge River has its natural outlet, but part of the water is diverted by a sluice at Kullerup, which supplies the moat around Nyborg and has done so for the last 600-700 years. The last part of your trip takes you through Nyborg Marina. The marina provides the setting for numerous local clubs.