Zealand's Largest Lake System Seen from Above

At Tamosen — the great reed swamp between Tystrup Sø and Bavelse Sø — a bird observation tower offers views across one of Zealand's most impressive wetland areas. From up here the landscape opens in every direction: water, reed beds and low-lying meadows stretch to the horizon, and on clear days you can make out the hills at Suserup to the north and Bavelse Sø to the southeast. It is the kind of panorama that makes you understand why this area has drawn people and birds for thousands of years.

The Bird Tower at Tamosen

The tower was built by the Danish Nature Agency and gives access to a viewing platform at treetop height. From here you have an unobstructed view across the great reed swamp that connects the two lakes. Tamosen is one of Zealand's most important breeding and staging areas for waterbirds — marsh harrier, bittern, bearded tit and water rail are among the permanent residents, and during migration season you can witness thousands of geese, ducks and waders resting on the shallow mudflats. Bring binoculars and a field guide — there is always something to see, regardless of the season.

Tystrup-Bavelse: A Lake System with Many Faces

Tystrup Sø and Bavelse Sø together form Zealand's largest interconnected lake system, linked by the narrow passage at Tamosen. The lakes sit deep in the Zealand moraine landscape, surrounded by rolling hills, ancient deciduous forest and open meadows. The Suså — Zealand's longest river — flows through the system and connects it with a chain of nature reserves and primitive camping spots from Sorø to Næstved. Water quality is good, and the lakes are known for their rich fish stocks — pike, perch and pike-perch attract anglers from across the region.

A Living Landscape

The area around Tamosen changes character with the seasons in a way that rewards repeat visits. In spring, birdsong fills the tower with sound and the first common sandpipers appear along the banks. In summer the meadows bloom with cotton grass and orchids, and the cuckoo calls from the forest edge. Autumn brings the great bird migrations — skeins of greylag and barnacle geese pattern the sky above Tamosen. Even winter has its charm, when hoarfrost paints crystals on the reeds and ice slowly forms across the shallow stretches.

Getting There

The bird tower at Tamosen is located near Kongskilde south of Sorø, close to Skælskørvej. The area is accessible via trails from Kongskilde Nature Centre, where there is also parking. Cyclists and hikers on the Sjællandsleden pass close by, and canoeists on the Suså can moor nearby. The terrain is flat and accessible, but the paths can be wet during periods of heavy rainfall — wellies are a good idea in early spring.

Explore the Wider Area

From Tamosen it is a short distance to Kongskilde Nature Centre with its beach, playground and nature exhibitions. Suserup Skov — one of Denmark's last remaining primeval forests — lies just a few kilometres north along the shore. The entire Tystrup-Bavelse area offers shelters, tent sites and hiking routes for those who want to spend the night under open skies. Find more ideas for trips and experiences in the Sorø area at destinationsjaelland.dk.