Gjern is situated in the center of the lake-highland region of Jutland, between Silkeborg and Hammel. The river Gjern, which connects with Denmark’s longest river, the Gudenå River, has probably given its name to the town of Gjern, which is comes from the word for creek or stream. Gjern has about 1800 inhabitants, and offers a range of shops and services.
Gjern Hills are situated between the towns of Gjern, Voel and Svostrup. A hundred years ago the hills were covered in purple and brown heather, but now parts have been cultivated as plantations and farm land.

In the hills there are some fantastic view points, e.g. "Store Troldhøj", "Solhøj", "Lille Troldhøj" and "Randers Høj" which stands at 100 m high. In clear weather it is possible to see the two towers of Viborg Cathedral.

From the top of "Store Troldhøj", there is just a short distance to the historic, cozy Svostrup Inn which gained royal privileges in 1834
Throughout the Gjern Hills there are many walking trails. The folder "Gjern Bakker" is available at Silkeborg Tourist Office.

Gjern is also the home of the holiday center Dayz Søhøjlandet, with a wide variety of activities such as: indoor waterpark, sports center, golf, indoor play area, bowling, all-year skiing etc.