Hundested is a small town located on the northern coast of Zealand, right where the Isefjord meets the Kattegat Sea.
At first glance, it might seem like just another old fishing village, like so many others in the area—nothing particularly remarkable. So, why am I writing about it? Well, I started visiting Hundested a couple of years ago after discovering the Hundested Sand Sculpture Festival, and I’ve become a huge fan. It’s turned into a bit of an annual tradition for me.
But even though I go almost every year, I had never really taken the time to properly explore the area. This year, for the first time, I decided to wander a bit further—especially since the weather was just too perfect to leave right after the festival.
Even though the town is small, there’s actually plenty to do to fill an afternoon or even a whole day, if you’re in the mood to explore.
Hundested Sand Sculpture Festival
The festival has always been my main reason for visiting. It usually opens around May and wraps up by mid-to-late October, so there’s plenty of time to catch it. The festival showcases incredible sand sculptures created by artists from all over the world; each year focused on a specific theme. Every time I go, I leave more impressed than the year before. Don’t just take my word for it, though—check out the photos from previous years, and you’ll see what I mean!
Art
Right outside the festival area, there’s a charming passage with stores selling all kinds of art. Hundested is actually known for its artisan workshops, including glassblowing, ceramics, and woodworking. We spotted quite a few of these workshops while exploring, so if that’s your thing, definitely take some time to check them out. There’s a lot of creativity happening here!
Lunch
After visiting the festival, we were feeling a bit peckish and decided to explore the local restaurants. After browsing a few menus, we ended up choosing “Knud.” It wasn’t the cheapest option, but wow, the food was absolutely delicious! With the light breeze, the sun shining down on us, and some drinks to go with it, we couldn’t have been happier. Most of the restaurants in the area serve fresh seafood, so if you have the time, definitely check them out—you won’t be disappointed!
Hundested Strand
By the end of September, taking a dip in the sea might not be the best idea—unless you’re into winter bathing! But during the summer, Hundested’s beach offers a perfect spot for a refreshing break. It’s tucked away behind tall grass, with smooth sand and crystal-clear water. The beach is also quite shallow unless you swim far out, making it ideal for a relaxed swim. Even in the height of summer, it doesn’t get overly crowded, so you can really enjoy some peace and quiet.
Hundested Skanse
I was hoping to catch a nicer view of the town and spotted a small hill. After climbing it, I noticed a few cannons scattered around. Curious, we read the nearby info and found out it’s actually a small rampart, built for use during the Anglo-Saxon wars from 1807 to 1814.
After the Bombardment of Copenhagen in 1807, the English had either stolen or destroyed most of the Danish ships. But the war with Britain continued, and the Danes had to rely on gunboats and makeshift defenses known as redoubts, which were armed with artillery.
In total, 214 of these redoubts were built, some stationary, others mobile with cannons mounted on horse-drawn carriages. The one here, called Hundested Skanse, dates back to 1809 and originally had eight cannons and two mortars. Together with a nearby battery at Skansehage in Rørvig, it was designed to protect the entrance to the Isefjorden.
Neighbourhood
Explore the neighborhood and enjoy the charming, old houses that simply take your breath away! It’s a wonderful opportunity to stretch your legs and soak in the picturesque surroundings.
Knud Rasmussen’s House
Following the small path from the redoubt, we stumbled upon a museum house dedicated to the renowned polar explorer Knud Rasmussen. He’s one of Denmark’s most famous explorers, celebrated for his expeditions to Greenland and the Arctic. We didn’t go inside, but if you’re curious, it could be worth checking out.
Just a stone’s throw from the house, you’ll find a memorial built in 1936, made from stones brought over from Greenland settlements. The inauguration was attended by notable figures, including Prince Knud, Princess Caroline, and Prime Minister Thorvald Stauning.
For more details on opening hours and prices, you can check out their website at knudrasmus.dk.
Spodsbjerg Fyr
Just a few meters away from Knud Rasmussen’s House, you’ll find a small lighthouse called Spodsbjerg Fyr, dating back to 1907. The view from the hill is stunning, and if the weather’s clear, you can see all the way to Hesselø and even Sweden. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a path that leads all the way to Kikhavn, a charming, idyllic village with thatched half-timbered houses. Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to explore further, so after soaking in the sun and the beautiful views, we headed back to our car in Hundested.
Hunderev
If you look out toward the sea, you might spot yellow pillars marking an area known as Hunderev, a stone reef off the coast. Back when Denmark lost territories that provided stone in the 16th, 17th, and 19th centuries, stone became a scarce resource. Once technology advanced enough, the reef started being fished out to build major structures like the Three Kroner Fort, the Port of Copenhagen, and forts and harbor piers along the Øresund Bay. By the 1950s and 60s, the last of the coastal stone reefs had disappeared.
In the early 70s, people began noticing the environmental impact this had—not just on sea life but on the coast itself, as the rock reefs acted as natural coastal protection. Efforts were made to reestablish the reef, and in 2021, it was officially inaugurated.
I spoke with my diver friend – Henrik, and he mentioned it’s a beautiful spot for diving. You can even access it from the beach. However, it’s important to note that this area is more suitable for experienced swimmers.
More about the reef here
Pictures from Henrik’s private collection
