Around Horsens Fjord by kayak

Total freedom on the tranquil fjord

Horsens Fjord is ideal for kayaking thanks to its calm waters, winding coastline, and several small islands that provide shelter from the wind and waves. From the kayak, you can enjoy views of diverse landscapes featuring forests, fields, and islands, as well as the bustling harbour life in Horsens. The fjord is home to both porpoises and seals, and also offers excellent angling opportunities. Along the way, you can explore the maritime charm of the islands Hjarnø and Alrø, and the cosy harbour and ferry town of Snaptun on the southern side of the fjord.

A sea kayaking tour around the fjord is highly recommended. There are several resting spots along the way, and we suggest a 44-kilometre route that can easily be divided into stages:

Husodde Beach to Brigsted, 7.5 kilometers

Brigsted to Sondrup, 9 kilometers

Sondrup to Snaptun, 9 kilometers

Snaptun to Horsens Marina, 15.5 kilometers

Horsens Marina to Husodde Beach, 3 kilometers

Always remember to check the weather and tide conditions before setting off, and bring essential safety equipment. Have a great trip!

Husodde Beach-Brigsted

The journey begins at Husodde Beach, a lively summer spot near the Blue Flag beach and Horsens City Camping. Here, you can grab an ice cream or a cold drink before heading out. If you do not have your own sea kayak, you can rent one on site.

Be aware of large rocks in the water when launching your kayak from Husodde.

You will head east along the northern part of Horsens Fjord. The first part of the journey takes you past the Stensballe woodlands. As the fjord bends north, follow the coastline west of the island Vorsø. Vorsø is a protected nature reserve where landing is not permitted. The island is home to a large bird population – including some 4,000 cormorants. Note that the waters near Vorsø are very shallow. From 1 February to 15 July, you must keep at least 200 metres away from the island, and in general, you should avoid passing north of it. The stage ends at Brigsted, near Vorsø, where you will find a natural campsite with shelters and toilet facilities.

Horsens Municipality regularly organises guided tours to Vorsø from Brigsted, wading through the shallow waters – the only way to visit the island.

Brigsted-Sondrup

From Brigsted, the route heads south past Haldrup Beach, curving around Vorsø. The destination is Sondrup Beach, located east of Brigsted at the edge of a beautiful hilly, forested area. This is where you will find the scenic natural sites of Sondrup Plantation, Sondrup/Uldrup Hills, and Trustrup Viewpoint Hills. Sondrup is a great starting point for a hike through this stunning landscape.

Sondrup-Snaptun

The kayaking trip continues to the southern part of the fjord. South of Sondrup, you will reach Alrø, which is connected to the northern side of the fjord by a causeway. Alrø is known for its charming eateries, including Café Alrø, famous throughout Denmark for its giant tarteletter.

From Alrø, a small bicycle ferry sails to both Hjarnø and Snaptun – and your kayaking route follows the same direction.

Paddle west of Alrø and east of Borre Knob, through the narrow fairway separating the two. This is the only navigable channel through the fjord for boats and ships, so take care.

Follow the eastern side of Borre Knob, then head east to Snaptun, a cosy marina and ferry port with connections to Hjarnø and Endelave. Here, you can enjoy an ice cream or a meal before continuing towards Horsens.

Snaptun to Horsens Marina

From Snaptun, return along Borre Knob and through the fairway – retracing your route. Borre Knob is a long, narrow peninsula with peaceful sandy beaches and a conference centre.

Follow the coastline all the way back to Horsens. The southern shore of the fjord features farmland and open fields, but you will also pass through Boller Forest and the beautiful Boller Castle. From here, the route continues along the Planet Path into Horsens Harbour.

This stage ends at Horsens Marina, where Horsens Kayak Club has a launch site.

Horsens Marina to Husodde Beach

The final leg of your journey around the fjord is the short stretch from Horsens Marina to Husodde Beach. Horsens Harbour is currently undergoing significant transformation, and it is worth taking a walk around the area to see the emerging new neighbourhood. By the marina, you will find a place to eat and can grab an ice cream or a drink before setting off.

The final part of the route follows the northern shore of the fjord through Horsens, leading to the Stensballe district where Husodde Beach is located. On the way, you will pass Langelinie Urban Beach, always buzzing with activity in summer. Next is the Strandparken area, where you can admire the many beautiful waterfront homes. Your tour ends where it began – at Husodde Beach and Horsens City Camping.

Rent a Kayak

At Horsens City Camping near Husodde Beach, you can rent a sea kayak for your trip. Choose between two hours, four hours, or a full-day rental.

More suggestions for kayak trips

On this page, you can find inspiration for other delightful kayak routes in Kystlandet.

Last updated on July 17, 2025 by Casper Terkelsen