AAI logo for mobile

Egå Engsø

Viengevej 7, 8240 Risskov

Egå Engsø is a natural oasis in Risskov

Egå Engsø is a 115-hectare natural area (equivalent to approx. 230 football pitches), located in scenic surroundings by Risskov. The artificial lake was created in 2006 and is an ideal place for nature lovers, bird enthusiasts and families who want an active day in the great outdoors.

 

Egå Engsø
Egå Engsø

→ 5 km nature trail for walking and cycling

→ Bird tower with views of 200+ bird species

→ Shelter site with Stone Age theme and campfire site

→ Quiet nature spot close to Aarhus and Risskov

Egå Engsø is easy to get to and has two parking spaces. A 5 kilometer path takes you all the way around the lake, perfect for a leisurely walk or an active bike ride.

Explore the exciting shelter area with a Stone Age theme, where you can spend the night under the open sky. Bring binoculars if you are interested in bird watching. Wear practical footwear as the path can be uneven.

The area used to be farmland for over 50 years, but now it is a sanctuary for rich wildlife and a perfect place for a relaxing moment in nature.

At selected places around the lake you can get very close to the water. The water bed, which consists of clay, sand, peat and silt, is an ideal habitat for a multitude of small animals. In summer, the lake is quickly heated, which creates optimal conditions for the small organisms.

Engsøen is a paradise for birds. More than 200 species have been observed at the lake, including rare species such as harriers and mute swans. From the bird tower you can enjoy a fantastic view of the lake and observe the bird life up close.

You may also be lucky enough to see cows grazing by the lake. They help keep the landscape open and prevent the coarse grass species from spreading. Their presence is an important part of the natural balance in the area.

Egå Engså Stone Age campfire site

The Shelter Square and the Labyrinth of the Souls of the Dead

Shortly after starting your tour, you will meet a wooden statue. From here you can walk up a small path to the shelter site. Here you will find 6 shelters standing in a semi-circle. 5 of them are available for overnight stays, while the sixth is locked. You can book an overnight stay in the shelters via Naturbooking.

The square is built with a Stone Age theme and has a large bonfire area, perfect for cozy moments under the open sky.

Past the shelter square you will find the Labyrinth of the Souls of the Dead. The labyrinth is a symbolic place for the spirits of the Stone Age people. In the middle of the labyrinth you will find 3 animal skulls on tall poles.

Many thousands of years ago, the Stone Age people lived in the Aarhus area. A large fjord covered the landscape, and along the banks of the fjord there were settlements. The Labyrinth of the Souls of the Dead is a tribute to these prehistoric inhabitants and a reminder of the area's rich history.

The bird tower with a panoramic view of Egå Engsø

Just after the shelter site, you will find the bird tower, which offers an unforgettable panoramic view over the whole of Egå Engsø. From the top of the tower you can observe the rich bird life and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the lake and the surrounding landscape.

The tower is equipped with informative posters that present the different species of birds that live by the lake. This gives you a unique opportunity to learn more about the birds' behavior, appearance and habitats.

The bird tower is sponsored by the Australian wine company Banrock Station. Perhaps you are wondering why a wine company from Australia supports a project in Aarhus. The explanation is simple: Banrock Station is dedicated to supporting the establishment of wetlands throughout the world. Their commitment to Egå Engsø is a testament to their passion for preserving and protecting global biodiversity.

Egå Engsø lookout tower

Egå Engsø is a paradise for resting birds

Egå Engsø is a true paradise for bird lovers. In addition to a rich local bird life, the lake also attracts a large number of rare resting birds on their migration between winter and summer residences.

The lake's location close to the coast and a well-placed migration route make it an ideal stop for migratory birds. Here they find the perfect living conditions with a varied range of food and rest areas.

Engsøen is an important contribution to Danish biodiversity. The area's varied habitats, including the lake, meadows and woodlands, create a haven for a multitude of bird species.

Information signs around the lake give you the opportunity to learn more about Engsøen's unique nature, the fascinating wildlife and the exciting history behind the Stone Age theme.

Experience Egå Engsø on foot or by bike

The trip around Egå Engsø is a favorite for both pedestrians and cyclists. The 5 kilometer long route offers a wonderful nature experience with the lake on one side and the Djurslands motorway on the other.

The path is not paved all the way. In some places it is paved, which is perfect for a bike ride or a brisk walk. Be aware of cyclists when on the paved sections.

Regardless of whether you are for a relaxed walk, an energetic bike ride or a pleasant walk with the dog, the trip around Egå Engsø is an ideal choice. The flat terrain makes the route accessible to everyone.

Take time to enjoy the beautiful nature along the way. The lake attracts a rich birdlife and you can look forward to observing a multitude of different species.

A sanctuary for nature and people

Egå Engsø is a unique natural area that offers an oasis of peace and tranquility for both people and animals. With its beautiful scenery, the rich bird life and the many activity options, the lake is a perfect place to visit again and again.

Tips for the trip

  • There may be cyclists on the trail, so be careful and keep an eye out for them.
  • Enjoy the beautiful scenery and stop to observe the bird life.
  • Information signs have been set up around the lake, giving you information about the area and the birdlife.
  • Remember to take your rubbish with you and help keep the area clean.
  • Stay on the path and avoid disturbing the bird life.

Egå Engsø practical

Parking

There are 2 parking spaces at Engsøen.
Viengevej 7 in Risskov and Lystrupvej shortly after the roundabout.

Public transport

Bus 18 has a stop close to Engsøen.

Public toilets

There are no public toilets.

Shelter

There are 5 shelters with fire pits and a nature playground.

Egå Engsø
Egå Engsø
Egå Engsø cows
Egå Engsø
Egå Engsø
Egå Engsø
Egå Engsø
Egå Engså Stone Age campfire site
Egå Engså Stone Age campfire site
Egå Engså Stone Age campfire site

Find experiences in Aarhus in the Event Calendar