Gabet – where the Kattegat meets Odense Fjord

Gabet is the narrow passage between the tip of Enebærodde and Lodshuse on Hindsholm – and the only connection between Odense Fjord and the Kattegat.

At its narrowest point, there are only around 440–450 metres to the opposite shore. Standing by the lighthouse on Enebærodde, Hindsholm therefore seems almost within reach.

From a shallow fjord to depths of 18 metres

Odense Fjord is generally very shallow, with an average depth of around 2.25 metres. At Gabet, however, it is a very different story. Over time, the strong current has carved deep into the seabed.

Close to Enebærodde, the water is typically around 10–12 metres deep, while closer to Lodshuse the depth is around 4–6 metres. In some places, the current has eroded the seabed to a depth of around 18 metres.

This means there are considerable differences in water depth within just a few hundred metres.

The strong current between the Kattegat and the fjord keeps Gabet open and constantly carries sand, gravel and stones through the passage. The current is so strong that finer material does not settle in Gabet itself.

Watch the ships pass by

Gabet is the entrance to Odense Fjord and the route onwards to the Port of Odense. From the tip of Enebærodde, you can therefore watch both sailing boats and larger ships pass relatively close by.

In the past, the sight could be even more impressive. When the Lindø shipyard built large container ships, frigates and other large vessels, the newly built ships also had to sail out through Odense Fjord and Gabet.

On the other side of the water lies Lodshuse. Its name reflects the history of the place. Pilots once lived here and helped ships navigate safely through the narrow passage and onwards into the fjord.

Pilotage at Gabet dates back to the early 19th century, and there is still a pilot station here today.

A good place to fish

The narrow passage also makes the area interesting for anglers. Fish moving between the Kattegat and Odense Fjord have to pass through Gabet, and Enebærodde is known as a good place to fish for sea trout.

Depending on the season, you may also catch garfish, mackerel, mullet and flatfish along the spit.

Be aware of the very strong current at Gabet itself. Do not enter the water here. Fish from the shore and take extra care near the outermost point.

Do not swim at Gabet

Even on a warm summer day, choose somewhere else for a swim. The strong current makes swimming at Gabet and the tip of Enebærodde dangerous.

There are better places for swimming elsewhere along the North Funen coast.

The view is worth the trip

From the tip of Enebærodde, you can look across to Lodshuse and Hindsholm, into Odense Fjord and out over the Kattegat.

You will also find Enebærodde Lighthouse here, which has guided ships through the narrow entrance for many years.

There is no road for cars all the way to Gabet. From the car park at Halshusene, you can walk or cycle across Enebærodde. It is around six kilometres to the lighthouse and Gabet, so remember to bring water and perhaps something to eat.

The full route around Enebærodde is approximately 12 kilometres.

Good to know about Gabet

Location: Between Enebærodde and Lodshuse on Hindsholm
Width: approx. 440–450 metres at the narrowest point
Water depth: approx. 10–12 metres near Enebærodde and 4–6 metres near Lodshuse
Greatest depth: up to around 18 metres where the current has eroded the seabed
What makes it special: the only connection between Odense Fjord and the Kattegat
Shipping: entrance to Odense Fjord and the Port of Odense
Fishing: good opportunities along Enebærodde, including sea trout
Swimming: no – the current at Gabet is very strong and dangerous
Access: on foot or by bicycle across Enebærodde
Distance to Gabet: approx. 6 km from the car park at Halshusene
Bring: good footwear, water, food and preferably binoculars