Cycling Through Ice Age Country: Sorø to Jyderup

The fourth stage of the Istidsruten (Ice Age Route) takes cyclists on a 62-kilometre journey from the historic academy town of Sorø through some of West Zealand's most varied landscapes to the small town of Jyderup. This route traces the path of the last glaciation, crossing terrain shaped by massive ice sheets that retreated roughly 12,000 years ago – a geological legacy visible in every rolling hill, kettle lake, and sweeping moorland along the way.

Into the Dead-Ice Landscape

Setting off from Sorø – with views across Sorø Lake and its medieval abbey church – the route heads northwest into the hilly terrain between Sorø and Holbæk municipalities. This area is characterised by so-called dead-ice topography: during the last ice age, enormous blocks of glacier ice were left stranded in the landscape, and as they slowly melted they created the distinctive pattern of deep hollows and ridges that defines this part of Zealand. On a bicycle, you feel this heritage in the steady rhythm of gentle climbs and descents that accompany you throughout the ride.

Åmosen – Northern Europe's Great Lowland Bog

A highlight of this stage is the passage through Åmosen, one of Denmark's most significant wetland areas. This vast lowland bog stretches across thousands of hectares between Sorø and Holbæk, supporting a rich birdlife that includes buzzards, lapwings, and numerous wading species. The cycling route skirts the edge of this unique ecosystem, where the flat stretches offer a welcome respite from the hillier passages. In spring and early summer, the air fills with birdsong, and you might spot a marsh harrier quartering the reed beds.

Between Beech Forest Belts and Open Farmland

The route alternates constantly between dense beech woodland and wide, open agricultural landscapes. The forest sections provide welcome shade on warm days, with sunlight filtering through the canopy in patterns that shift with every breeze. Between the woods, the route passes through small rural communities where farm shops sell fresh strawberries, local honey, and free-range eggs – the kind of roadside encounters that make Danish cycling routes so rewarding.

Kalundborg Municipality and the Approach to Jyderup

In the western section, the stage crosses into Kalundborg Municipality, where the landscape is increasingly defined by gentle moraine hills and small lakes. The destination of Jyderup sits nestled in this softly undulating terrain – a quiet town that makes an ideal stage stop. Local shops and eateries provide everything needed for a well-earned rest after a full day in the saddle, and the town's relaxed atmosphere invites you to linger.

Route Characteristics

The 62 kilometres run predominantly on paved cycle paths and quiet country roads. The route is continuously signposted and forms part of the larger Istidsruten network, which makes Zealand's geological history accessible by bicycle. The elevation changes are moderate but constant – a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Along the way, several rest areas with benches and information boards about ice age geology provide natural stopping points.

Experiences Along the Way

The route passes numerous attractions worth a detour: Sorø Abbey with its historic parkland, the Åmosen wetland area with birdwatching towers, and the hilly countryside around Bjernede with one of Denmark's oldest round stone churches. Those spreading the journey over several days will find accommodation options ranging from shelters to cosy country inns throughout the region. For more inspiration on experiences along the route, visit destinationsjaelland.dk.