Cycling through the green heart of Zealand

The third stage of the Ice Age Route is the longest stretch of the entire circuit at 75.6 kilometres. From Lejre, the route heads southwest through a landscape clearly shaped by the immense forces of the Ice Age – tunnel valleys, meltwater plains and moraine hills define the terrain all the way to the historic monastery town of Sorø.

From Sagnlandet to Skjoldungernes Land National Park

The starting point near Lejre places you in one of Denmark's most culturally rich landscapes. Sagnlandet Lejre lies just a few hundred metres away, and Skjoldungernes Land National Park spreads across the surrounding hills and valleys. From here, the route rolls through undulating terrain where the Ice Age landscape unfolds with sweeping views over fields, forests and the deep valleys carved by meltwater thousands of years ago.

Meltwater formations and open landscapes

Along the way, the route passes through several landscape types characteristic of central Zealand. Open farmland is broken up by forest edges and hedgerows, and the terrain gently rises and falls. The route primarily follows quiet country lanes and paths, well away from busy traffic, making it suitable for both experienced cycle tourists and families with time for a longer day stage. Signposting is clear throughout, and GPX files can be downloaded for navigation via the Naviki app.

Sorø – monastery town by the lake

The stage ends in Sorø, where Sorø Academy and the medieval monastery church stand on the shores of Sorø Lake. The town is known for its rich cultural life and its beautiful monastery forests that stretch right down to the water. Sorø also serves as a hub for several other cycling and walking routes in the area, including paths around the Tystrup-Bavelse lakes to the south and connections onward to Naturpark Åmosen to the west.

Practical information

The route is signposted and mostly follows minor roads and paths with varied surfaces. Shelters and rest areas can be found along parts of the route, and both Lejre and Sorø have train connections that make it possible to combine cycling with public transport. The route can be ridden in either direction and combined with other stages of the Ice Age Route for a continuous tour of West Zealand.

Experiences in the area

The municipalities of Lejre and Sorø offer a wealth of nature and cultural experiences. Skjoldungernes Land National Park near Lejre is worth visiting for the views over Roskilde Fjord and the dramatic valleys alone. In the Sorø area, the Sorø Lake Trail, the Academy Garden and the protected monastery forests invite peaceful walks. The Tystrup-Bavelse lakes south of Sorø offer canoeing and kayaking in one of Zealand's most unspoilt lake landscapes. Find even more experiences and inspiration for your visit at destinationsjaelland.dk.