Rugballegård Forest
This large, newly established natural area in Horsens offers excellent opportunities for outdoor excursions with its network of trails, diverse landscapes, lakes, a dog forest, and a more than 5,000-year-old passage grave.
Big nature area near Horsens
In the western part of Horsens, you’ll find a vast 300-hectare natural area offering a variety of outdoor activities. Half of this area consists of the beloved Bygholm Lake and Åbjerg Forest, while the other half is the newly established 161-hectare Rugballegård Forest.
Rugballegård Forest creates a green corridor between Horsens and Hatting. It is a natural area with great diversity, featuring an impressive 185,000 trees and 52 different species. Approximately half of the Rugballegård has been developed as woodland, while the other half consists of more open natural landscapes, providing a varied experience on a walk through the area.
Created for you
Rugballegård Forest is a so-called Folkeskov (people's forest). A folkeskov is designed with visitors in mind and offer opportunities for various activities. Rugballegård Forest features an extensive network of trails, allowing you to explore new paths with every visit. In the southern part of the area, there is a dedicated dog forest where dogs can roam freely. In the northern section, you’ll find the impressive Grønhøj passage grave from ancient times, which you are welcome to enter. However, be mindful of its old structure —it is older than the pyramids of Egypt.
Combine with other natural areas
Rugballegård Forest is directly connected to Åbjerg Forest and Bygholm Lake, and Bygholm Park is located near its eastern end. This makes it easy to combine a visit to Rugballegård with other nearby nature spots.
If you wish to drive directly to Rugballegård, there are two parking areas at the southern end of the forest along Hattingvej. See the map above for parking locations and suggested hiking routes.
Walks beneath the canopy
Looking for more forest hiking inspiration? On this page, you can explore other beautiful forests in and around Horsens.