Tystrup-Bavelse – 8 Themed Routes

Hiking at the Tystrup-Bavelse Lakes in the Heart of Central Zealand

Between Sorø and Næstved lies one of Zealand's best-kept natural secrets. The Tystrup-Bavelse Lakes stretch through a hilly moraine landscape where the Suså river meanders quietly through meadows and forest edges. Eight themed hiking trails open up this diverse area, covering everything from ancient primeval forest and lakeshores to historic ruins and open meadowland. The routes range from short, family-friendly walks of about one kilometre to longer stretches of over five kilometres, so there is something for both small legs and seasoned hikers.

Suserup Skov – Denmark's Last Primeval Forest

One of the trails leads through Suserup Skov, one of the few places in Denmark where the forest has been left to its own devices for centuries. Fallen trunks lie moss-covered on the forest floor while enormous beeches and oaks stretch their branches towards the light high above. The atmosphere in Suserup is entirely different from an ordinary Danish forest – it feels like stepping into a wilderness that existed long before anyone laid out roads and fields across the landscape. Children love climbing on the fallen trees, and for adults it is a rare opportunity to experience what Danish nature looked like before humans began shaping it.

Tystrup Lake and Bavelse Lake

Several trails follow the shore of Tystrup Lake, which with its clear water and hilly surroundings resembles a Norwegian fjord landscape more than typical Zealand nature. Along the path, views open up across the lake where grey herons stand patiently in the reeds and the deep call of the bittern can be heard in spring. Bavelse Lake, the more southerly of the two, is more overgrown and marshy – a paradise for birds and a fascinating place to study wild nature from the trail. The undulating terrain provides pleasant variety, alternating between hilltop panoramas and shady hollows.

Kongskilde and the Suså River Valley

At Kongskilde, one of the routes follows the Suså, which here winds through lush meadows and damp alder woods. Kongskilde was once a Cistercian monastery founded in the 12th century, and the remains of the old complex still lie in the landscape as a quiet testimony to the area's long history. The Suså is Zealand's longest river, and at Kongskilde it flows slowly and majestically – a perfect backdrop for a walk where you can pause and listen to the water and the birds. In spring the meadows bloom with marsh marigolds, and in summer the area hums with dragonflies and butterflies.

Practical Information and Access

The starting point for most routes is at Skælskørvej 34 south of Sorø, where parking is also available. From here you can choose between the eight themed routes, which are marked with different colours and numbers. The terrain is predominantly hilly with a mix of forest paths, grass trails and occasional wooden bridges over wet areas. Walking boots or sturdy shoes are recommended, especially after rain. The area lies in Sorø Municipality, roughly ten minutes by car from Sorø town and half an hour's drive from Slagelse.

Experiences Nearby

The Tystrup-Bavelse area sits centrally in the mid-Zealand landscape, and there are plenty of opportunities to combine your hike with other experiences. The town of Sorø offers Sorø Academy and beautiful lakes right in the town centre, while Naturpark Tusindmål just north of the area provides further hiking opportunities. Heading south, you quickly reach the upper course of the Suså, and to the west lies Slagelse with the historic Viking fortress Trelleborg. Visit destinationsjaelland.dk for even more experiences and inspiration for your next trip to West Zealand.