Ice Age Route – Stage 5: Jyderup – Nykøbing Sj. (Cycle Route)

Istidsruten Stage 5: Jyderup to Nykøbing Sjælland

The fifth stage of the Istidsruten (Ice Age Route) takes cyclists on a 64-kilometre journey from Jyderup through the rolling hills of northwest Zealand to the coastal town of Nykøbing Sjælland. This stretch crosses one of Denmark’s most distinctive Ice Age landscapes – shaped by the glaciers that retreated roughly 15,000 years ago, leaving behind a dramatic terrain of moraines, kettleholes and ancient fjords.

Into the Heart of Odsherred

Heading north from Jyderup, the route climbs gently towards Åsene – a chain of terminal moraines that forms the backbone of this part of Zealand. These ridges are silent witnesses to the immense ice sheets that once covered the region, and today they offer sweeping views across a patchwork of farmland, small woods and quiet villages where life moves at a gentler pace.

As you continue northward, the Ice Age relief becomes increasingly pronounced. Soft hills alternate with hollows and kettle bogs left behind by melting ice blocks. Between Hørve and Vig, the landscape opens up to reveal the Lammefjord – a former sea inlet that was drained in the 19th century and is now famous for its fertile soil and the celebrated Lammefjord carrots grown here.

Coastal Scenery and Fjord Views

The northern section of the stage rewards riders with surprising glimpses of the Isefjord and Nykøbing Bay. The route passes through Odsherred – a municipality recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark, whose landscape holds international geological significance. Here you can quite literally ride through Ice Age history: every hill, hollow and lake tells the story of the dramatic processes that shaped this coastal landscape.

The final kilometres into Nykøbing Sjælland wind through gentle coastal terrain with views across the Isefjord. The small harbour town welcomes cyclists with cosy cafés and a relaxed atmosphere – a perfect place to round off the day’s ride.

Practical Information for Cyclists

This stage is rated moderate. The hilly terrain requires reasonable fitness but rewards with varied panoramas and a constantly changing landscape. The route runs primarily on quiet country roads and paved cycle paths, all well signposted. The starting point at Jyderup station is reachable by regional train from Holbæk or Kalundborg, making it easy to combine with public transport.

Several smaller towns along the way offer shops and refreshments. Vig in particular makes a good spot for a longer break. The stage forms part of the larger Istidsruten network, which comprises multiple stages between Roskilde and the north coast of Zealand.

Experiences in the Area

Numerous attractions lie along the route: Odsherred Art Museum, the Geopark visitor centre at Anneberg, and the historic Dragsholm Castle. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty of detour opportunities at Sidinge Fjord and in the forests around Annebjerg. The region is also known for its farm shops selling fresh vegetables, honey and artisan produce.

For more inspiration on activities and excursions in West Zealand, visit destinationsjaelland.dk.