Stage 12

On Stage 12 between Middelfart and Christiansfeld, you ride through the largest nature reserve in Denmark, Naturpark Lillebælt. It winds its way between Fyn and Jutland, connected by the Lillebælt bridges. The waters of Lillebælt are the focal point for a rich and varied countryside and home to one of the world’s most dense populations of Harbour Porpoises. Explore these beautiful creatures on board a Whale Safari from the lovely old port of Middelfart.

When you reach Fredericia, you dive straight into Denmark’s military history. Fredericia was, for many hundreds of years, one of the most important fortresses and garrison towns in Denmark. The beautifully-preserved ramparts tell the story of the siege of 1849. On your way into Kolding, you will notice Jutland’s last royal castle, Koldinghus. The town is a mix of culture and design with a vault of creative shops and exciting exhibitions. The stage ends at Christiansfeld, with its yellow brick Moravian houses. In 2015 the town became a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Enjoy the coffee, the honey cakes and the tranquility of this stunning place. Should you wish to leave out Stage 11 on your ride, make sure you still manage to enjoy a whale safari and some Bridgewalking on the old Lillebælt Bridge.

Nature Park Lillebælt is the largest nature park in Denmark, with depths of up to 80 metres. It has a unique environment for both fauna and flora. Rest your bike while you enjoy some diving or pleasure fishing. Lillebælt has the world’s most dense population of Harbour Porpoises, and you can enjoy a Whale Safari from both Fredericia and Middelfart. Nature Park Lillebælt is one of the country’s most important breeding and resting grounds for coastal birds, with saltwater meadows and coastal wetland regions.

There are plenty of opportunities to get close to nature and the birdlife in the nature park, both by bike and on foot. You can also find a great deal of history by Skamlingsbanken or by the Ramparts of Fredericia, and of course stories of Porpoise hunting in Middelfart. Remember to use the nature park respectfully.