The best running trails around Vester Krat

Located in a deep ice-age tunnel valley, Rørbæk Sø is surrounded by protected oak forests and heathland. Just south-east of the lake at Tinnet Krat, the spring sources of Gudenåen and Skjern Å, which flows directly into Rørbæk Sø, originate less than 100 metres apart before winding in opposite directions across Jutland.

From here, you have views over the protected oak forests, heather-clad hills, and Rørbæk Sø, which was carved out during the last ice age.

Hærvejen, also known as the Ancient Road, is a historic pilgrimage and trade route running down the spine of the Jutland peninsula. The route is highly popular with both hikers and cyclists, offering a well-signposted mix of quiet asphalt lanes, gravel tracks, and scenic countryside.

Rørbæk Sø is traversed by the river Skjern, which originates 2½ km southeast of the lake. Kulsø is located somewhat west of Rørbæk Sø. The Rørbæk lake was formed in a dead ice hollow in the tunnel valley. Deposited sand and gravel in the dead ice formed several small islands, most of which are merely elevations on the lake shore. [ 2 ] On the eastern part of the Kælderbanke rampart, south of the lake, there is a 15 × 6 m and 1.5 m deep cellar made of boulders. [ 3 ] It is the remains of the Gammel Rørbæk farm, which was burned down by Swedish troops in 1657 during the First Karl Gustav War and not rebuilt. [ 1 ] A few hundred meters south of Kælderbanke lies Ballesbækgård, where a small museum is located. [ 1 ] The lake forms the border between the municipalities Ikast-Brande and Vejle.

Rørbæk Sø is not the only attraction in this area. The Tinnet Krat forest is a wonderful place to go hiking.

The source of the Gudenå, Denmark's longest river, is what you'll find here at this spring. What makes this spot truly unique is that the source is located in the same area as the source of the Skjern River, the country's largest river by water volume. It's a fascinating experience to see two of Denmark's most important rivers begin their journeys just a few hundred meters apart.

Make a stop at the humble source of the Skjern River, Denmark's largest river by volume. Here, in the quiet area of Tinnet Krat, you'll find the small spring that gives rise to this powerful waterway. It's a truly fascinating experience to see the beginning of such a major river, and it's a key highlight for anyone hiking the Hærvejen route. The area is a fantastic spot to reflect on the immense natural forces that shape the landscape.

Rørbæk Lake is a stunningly beautiful spot along the Hærvejen hiking route. The clear water and quiet atmosphere make it a perfect place to pause for a break and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. On a warm day, you can even take a refreshing swim in the lake. It is a fantastic highlight for those seeking a moment of tranquillity on their journey.