Flomengene – Flood Meadows

Flomengene near Sorø – 127 hectares of untouched meadowland

North of the Tystrup-Bavelse lakes, Flomengene spreads out as one of Zealand's most remarkable meadow areas. At 127 hectares, it is a landscape that takes the breath away even from the most experienced nature walker. The area has been protected since 1977, and that protection is clearly felt. No cultivated fields, no buildings, no noise – just vast, wet meadows swaying in the wind and a birdlife that fills the air with sound from morning to evening.

Flomengene lies in the broad river valley where the Suså meanders through the landscape between Sorø and Næstved. In spring, large parts of the meadows are flooded as meltwater from the surrounding hills gathers in the hollows. It is precisely these periodic floods that have created the unique natural environment. The plant species here are adapted to the wet life, and many of them are rare in the rest of Denmark.

For the botanically inclined, Flomengene is a treasure trove. The marsh marigold colours the landscape yellow in May, and later in summer, marsh thistle and meadowsweet bloom along the waterways. In the drier patches you may find orchids, and the wet hollows hum with dragonflies and butterflies. It is a living herbarium where the seasons succeed one another with ever new surprises.

A birdlife in a class of its own

Flomengene is one of the most important bird areas in West Zealand. Wading birds such as lapwing, redshank and ruff breed in the meadows, and in spring you may witness the stork hunting in the flooded hollows. Common buzzards and kestrels patrol above the open expanses, and in the reed beds along the Suså, bittern and water rail hide. For ornithologists, the area is a gem – one of those places on Zealand where you can still experience a diverse and abundant birdlife in a large, connected natural landscape.

Bring your binoculars and a cup of coffee, and settle at the edge of the meadow on an early morning. The sound of lapwings and songbirds over the wet meadows is an experience that ranks among the greatest in Danish nature. Roe deer are often seen at the forest edges around the meadows, and at dusk you may be lucky enough to spot a fox on the hunt.

Location and access

Flomengene lies between Sorø and Fuglebjerg in the rolling moraine landscape southeast of Sorø. From the town of Sorø it is only a short drive, and the area can also be reached via hiking trails from Kongskilde Nature Centre. The terrain is flat but wet – wellies are a good idea, especially in the spring and autumn months. Note that parts of the area may be difficult to access during periods of high water.

The area is part of the large nature complex around the Tystrup-Bavelse lakes and the Suså, and it combines well with visits to surrounding nature areas. A full day in the area offers ample opportunity to experience West Zealand's nature at its very best.

Experiences in the area

Sorø Municipality offers a wealth of nature experiences. From Flomengene it is a short distance to the Suså, where canoeing is a classic family experience. The Tystrup-Bavelse lakes invite walks along their shores, and Kongskilde Nature Centre offers exhibitions and guided tours in the summer months. In the town of Sorø you can visit the Academy Garden and the historic monastery complex by Sorø Lake. Visit destinationsjaelland.dk for even more experiences in Sorø and the rest of West Zealand.