Begtrup: Coastal Nature and Megalithic Tombs

Begtrup combines coastal nature with tangible evidence of prehistoric architecture. Begtrup Vig and coastal areas on Helgenæs are part of Natura 2000 site N51; several named megalithic structures add to the area’s cultural history. When choosing a holiday apartment, you can consider whether protected areas, longer hikes or archaeological details are the main priority for your stay. These themes lend different character to your vacation days and give Begtrup a distinctive profile.

Protected Areas, Coast and Sea

Natura 2000 site N51, “Begtrup Vig og kystområder på Helgenæs,” protects designated species and habitat types. The sea is also included: the marine part of Begtrup Vig encompasses coastal marine nature on the western side of Helgenæs, extending to the 10-metre depth contour. This means that protection explicitly extends beyond the shoreline into the coastal marine zone. More than 200 plant species have also been recorded in the area. Begtrup’s nature theme therefore encompasses the protection of species and habitats, marine nature and plant life.

Begtrup Røn is a 2 ha wildlife reserve protecting a breeding area for waterbirds and coastal birds. Begtrup Vig is also known for its many sea trout. Together, these natural features offer insight into different habitats and conservation priorities, from breeding areas to marine nature.

Hiking and Kayaking on a Regional Scale

The Mols Bjerge Trail provides a practical framework for planning hikes: it is 80 km long and divided into four daily stages. When planning, you can take the stage structure into account as well as the total distance. It shows that the trail is designed to be covered over several days of hiking, rather than being just a single walk.

For longer kayaking trips, the regional area is broader: along the coast of Syddjurs Municipality, there are overnight stops that make both day trips and longer kayaking trips possible. Hiking over daily stages and longer paddling trips offer different rhythms for an active vacation.

Megalithic Structures: Dimensions and Construction

The long barrow “Langhøj, mv., Begtrup (#2)” measures 24 × 15 m and is 1.60–2 m high. Its chamber consists of four supporting stones, one of which is missing. The capstone is split into two pieces and has toppled; 15–16 kerbstones are partly covered by earth. The dimensions, chamber and kerbstones describe different features of the same structure: the footprint indicates its size, while the stones identify specific structural elements.

“Rundhøj, Begtrup (#1)” is a somewhat irregular burial mound measuring 20–22 × 12–13 m and 2–2.5 m high. It is covered in grass, with stones visible on the surface in places. There are 20–25 mountain pines and 3–4 spruces growing on the mound. It lies at the edge of a plantation, beside unused land.

“Langhøj, mv., Begtrup (#1)” is a disturbed round or long dolmen of unknown extent. Its dimensions are estimated at probably at least 20 m from north to south, 8–10 m from east to west and around 0.5–1 m high. At the northern end, remains of a polygonal chamber have been preserved, including three upright supporting stones and a cracked stone that may have served as a capstone.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Kongsgårde, Skødshoved Strand, Esby, Femmøller, Fuglslev, Elsegårde, Følle, Bogens.

To the main travel overview: Syddjurs Municipality.