Pontoppidanruten, cycling route
The cycling route follows in the footsteps of Henrik Pontoppidan and features seven selected locations connected to his literary work. Along the way, you'll explore the idyllic surroundings of Østby, Selsø, and Skibby in the scenic Hornsherred region of north-eastern Zealand.
On the Pontoppidan Route, you can explore the literary legacy of Henrik Pontoppidan and his close connection to the area around Frederikssund and Hornsherred in north-eastern Zealand.
In Henrik Pontoppidan's Footsteps – The Literary Cycling Route
This cycling route takes you through the beautiful Hornsherred landscape as it appears today. Although some elements have changed over time – for example, Selsø Mill has been demolished and the former Work and Welfare Institution replaced by housing – the landscape, church, rectory and more remain largely unchanged.
The Danish author Henrik Pontoppidan (1857–1943) was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1917 for “his authentic depictions of everyday life in Denmark”, particularly in his short story collection From the Outlying Farms and the novel The Promised Land. Both works draw clear inspiration from rural life and from Pontoppidan’s own experiences while living with his family in the village of Østby.
Route Facts
The cycling route includes seven selected locations in the Hornsherred area, along with a sign at the Reunification Stone on the islet Kalvøen near Frederikssund. The full route is approximately 22 km, not including the sign at Kalvøen.
Sign 1: Elmevej/Hovedgaden – Hornsherred Work and Welfare Institution
Sign 2: Selsø Møllekrog (site of the former mill)
Sign 3: Selsø Church
Sign 4: Hellesø
Sign 5: Østby Harbour
Sign 6: Østby Village Pond
Sign 7: Skuldelev Rectory
Sign 8: Kalvøen (Reunification Stone)