Isbjerg

Isbjerg is the highest point in the Hanstholm Wildlife Reserve at 56 meters above sea level. From here, you can enjoy magnificent views of the northern part of the Thy National Park, framed by the North Sea to the west, Hanstholm to the north, Tved Klit Plantation to the east, and Nors Lake to the south

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View of the Wilderness In the Stone Age, the area around Isbjerg was a sea. Where the heathland is today, there was seabed. Isbjerg was on an island, and Nors Lake was a bay. The original coastline is visible in several places in the national park as steep cliffs. It is precisely the coastal cliff from the Stone Age that you climb when you follow the marked trail up to Isbjerg.

The reserve is impressive in its grandeur. Here, there is wilderness as far as the eye can see. With restrictions on public access and movement, the reserve becomes a sanctuary for animals and birds. This means that species like cranes, whimbrels, and common redshanks breed here. It also means that, at times, you can see large herds of red deer grazing undisturbed, while elegant gliders like the white-tailed eagle and osprey can be seen high above the landscape.

With its 3900 hectares, Hanstholm Wildlife Reserve is a vital core area within the national park. Most of it lies on the former seabed and consists of dunes and heathland. Between the dunes, there are swamps, countless shallow marshes, and lakes that brighten up the heathland. This is where many of the rarest plants typically grow, creating space for countless species of insects.

Read more about Hanstholm Wildlife Reserve here: Hanstholm Wildlife Reserve

I's bjerg

Many people wonder about the name Isbjerg (Iceberg), and its origin is not entirely clear. However, the most plausible explanation is linked to the Iron Age, when the sacred tree of that time, yew, was called something similar to the I-tree. The tree had its own symbol among the runes. Yew trees were common in the Isbjerg area and hence gave it its name. Therefore, the area should be pronounced as "I's bjerg."

From Isbjerg, there is a view of Hanstholm Vildtreservat. Photo by Mette Johnsen.

Practical Information

You can reach Isbjerg by driving along Hindingevej. Near the end of the road, there is a parking area. (Find it on Google Maps)

There is a toilet at the parking area.

Special rules apply to protect the wildlife in Hanstholm Vildtreservat. The entire area east of Kystvejen is closed during the breeding season from April 1st to July 15th. The central area with many lakes and wetlands is closed for access throughout the year.

You are allowed to walk on the hiking trail to Isbjerg and further into the plantation all year round. However, because the trail runs right on the edge of the reserve, you should stay on it and keep an eye on the signs provided by the Danish Nature Agency.