We know, Rømø shouldn’t be experienced in just one day or a quick trip! The island is far too wonderful and charming for that… But if you ever find yourself with an extra day and think, “Now’s the time,” then go for it! Rømø is a delight, and even a short visit during the colder months is highly recommended.
We took a quick trip to Rømø on a sunny April day, fully aware that we only had one day to explore the island. We drove for two hours to get there – did we regret the long journey? Nooo, not at all! Here, we’ll share a bit about what we experienced that day and why we completely fell for the island. We hope it inspires you to visit, even if you can only spare a day.
Why we fell head over heels for Rømø
To be completely honest, the journey to Rømø wasn’t the most scenic. Driving through the heart of Jutland towards the North Sea on this April day, we were met with brown fields, bare trees, more brown fields… and, well, even more brown fields.
For a moment, we almost lost faith in the beauty of Danish nature. But then, as if breaking through the monotony of endless brown fields, we suddenly “hit” the western edge of Jutland – the marshlands. The fields disappeared, replaced by stunning pine forests, rolling dunes, and vast marsh landscapes. Within minutes, the sky opened up, the horizon stretched wide, and we found ourselves leaving Jutland behind, crossing Rømø’s causeway – cheering with excitement. And wow, what a breathtaking sight!
Right in the middle of the dike, Peter suddenly pulled over at a small rest area, giving us the chance to step out and experience the Wadden Sea, the dikes, and the many birds. The scent of the sea, mud, and seaweed hit us instantly in the warm April sunshine. And just like that, our adventure began!
1. Experience the Rømø causeway and tidal polders
You don’t have to travel abroad to experience something extraordinary – Denmark has its own hidden gems! Take a drive across the 9.2 km-long causeway connecting Jutland to Rømø. This scenic road leads you straight through the Wadden Sea, and depending on the tide, you’ll find water stretching out on both sides.
Midway across the causeway, you’ll find two rest areas (one on each side of the road), where you can step out and experience the unique tidal polders. These areas in the mudflats are often marked by two rows of wooden poles, with bundles of branches and twigs filling the space in between.
The tidal polders help slow down the movement of water during the tides, allowing most of the incoming sediment (silt and clay) carried in by the high tide to settle and create new land.
Tidal polders have been used for centuries, particularly in the marshland areas of Southern Jutland.
2. Take a Walk on the Havneby Dike
Have you ever walked on a 1.6 km-long dike? If not, head to Havneby on Rømø for a refreshing stroll. The dike was recently restored because the old one could no longer keep the water out. With sea levels rising each year, the new dike is designed to protect the mainland for the next 100 years.
The walk offers stunning views over the sea – and for us, it was a truly unique experience.
3. Visit the Old Fire Station “Rømø Brandværn”
Discover Denmark’s most beautiful fire station on Rømø. This historic building was originally Rømø’s first rescue station, dating back to a time when maritime life was the island’s main livelihood.
The fire station was built in 1887 and strategically placed on the easternmost part of the island – far enough to be safe from storm surges, yet still close enough to quickly launch the rescue boats during a storm. The tower on the roof allowed rescuers to keep watch for ships in distress around the island.
In 1968, the rescue station was taken over by Rømø’s volunteer fire brigade and is still used as a fire station today.
4. Experience Rømø’s beaches
Rømø is home to several stunning beaches. We visited Lakolk Beach, which is the widest beach in Europe. Here, you can drive your car all the way down to the shoreline.
Whether you want to swim, relax in the sun, search for amber, fly a kite, go horseback riding on a rented horse, or simply enjoy a breathtaking sunset, Lakolk Beach offers something for everyone.
5. Visit Kommandørgården
Step into a genuine 18th-century Rømø captain’s farm! The name “Kommandørgården” refers to the commanders who, in the 1600s and 1700s, led large whaling ships on trade journeys and whaling expeditions in the North Atlantic.
Kommandørgården offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of these wealthy captains and showcases the intricate craftsmanship of the time, from detailed paintings to fine carpentry. As a special highlight, you can also see the massive skeleton of a sperm whale that stranded on Rømø in 1996.
6. See the Whale Bone Fence
You wouldn’t know it unless someone told you – but this fence is actually made of whale bones!
The fence dates back to 1772, a time when whaling was at its peak. Back then, around 450 sailors from Rømø joined Dutch or German ships to hunt whales and seals in the North Atlantic.
It was these sailors – whaling commanders and hunters – who brought great wealth to Rømø, traces of which can still be seen today in the many historic houses known as “Kommandørgårde” (see the section on “Kommandørgården“).
7. Visit the Sct. Clemens Church
The beautiful Sct. Clemens Church stands right across from the old fire station, its whitewashed walls glowing in the landscape. Originally built in the 1200s, the church is dedicated to Saint Clement, the patron saint of sailors.
Inside the church, you can see 15 hat pegs hanging from the ceiling, many of them engraved with the initials of their original owners.
In the churchyard, you’ll find a unique collection of distinctive gravestones belonging to former whaling commanders – some of whom even brought their own gravestones home from distant lands.
What else can you see on Rømø?
Our day on Rømø was far too short, but we are certain that we will return one day to explore and enjoy the island’s nature at a slower pace.
Have you visited Rømø? What would you recommend we see next time? Feel free to share your suggestions in the comment section below – we’d love to hear from you!
Links
Kommandørgården on Rømø
Sct. Clemens Church (in danish)
Seværdigheder på Rømø (in danish)
