Discover Hadsund on the Mariager Fjord

Hadsund is located on the Mariager Fjord and combines impressive fjord scenery with cycle paths, walking opportunities, nature experiences and a remarkable local history. The Hadsund Bridge connects the north and south at the narrowest section of the Mariager Fjord. Along the harbour promenade, you can enjoy a walk along the quay with views of the fjord. There are municipal harbours both west and east of the bridge.

Getting around by bicycle and on foot

Hadsund offers several different routes for active days out. Cycle Route 18 runs between Hadsund and Randers along the Mariager Fjord. The Hadsund Route runs between Gistrup and Hadsund along an 11-kilometre route through natural surroundings. It follows the former railway line between Aalborg and Hadsund, which was closed in 1969. Today, the route has been developed as a paved trail through flat terrain. Along the way, there are shelters, toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables with benches.

Those planning a longer hike can follow an approximately 48-kilometre section of the North Sea Trail from Hadsund to Lille Vildmose. Linddalene offers a different landscape: this 41-hectare, hilly woodland area has been protected since 1992 and includes beech forest, open heathland and areas where sheep graze. A marked route and smaller paths provide access to the area. Depending on the type of day you have in mind, you can therefore choose between a flat cycling tour, a longer hiking section and a nature-focused walk through the forest.

Ajstrup Bay and wildlife experiences

Ajstrup Bay is a nature reserve with old, deep sunken lanes and steep slopes above flat coastal areas formed by the raised seabed of the Stone Age sea. The walking route is marked in both directions with red triangles and begins at the free, unrestricted car park on Ajstrupvej in Hadsund. From the route, there are views of the bay, where barnacle geese overwinter together with many other migratory birds.

At Hadsund Dyrehave, visitors can see deer up close and pet goats. A covered viewing platform with tables and benches is suitable for a picnic. There is also a small sandy beach near Hadsund's Jollehavn. These different destinations make it possible to combine active and more relaxing activities without limiting the day to just one type of experience.

Culture, history and harbour life

Hadsund began as a ferry crossing and small trading station. Hadsund Færgekro was built in 1823 by innkeeper and ferryman Peder Nielsen from Rostrup. Today, it has the Panorama Restaurant and a terrace overlooking the Mariager Fjord. Hadsund Fiskeri- og Lystbådehavn was established in 1937 and was a busy fishing harbour over the years. The harbour includes a clubhouse, a terrace, as well as toilet and bathing facilities. Hadsund Lystbådehavn is a suitable stop for recreational sailors arriving from the Kattegat and is surrounded by the fjord and idyllic woodland.

Hadsund Church also adds a historical touch. It was built in 1897–1898 in the shape of a cross, with a tall tower in the centre. Its carillon, inaugurated in 1992, has 26 bells and plays daily at 8 a.m., 10 a.m., noon, 3 p.m., 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Hadsund Kulturcenter, housed in a former primary school building, is now a centrally located multicultural centre with year-round activities, events and programmes. The Kulturcenter also includes Hadsund Bio 1+2, a modern cinema with two auditoriums. In addition to school swimming, the municipal Hadsund Swimming Pool on the grounds of Hadsund School offers public opening hours.

Suitable accommodation for planning your trip

When looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home in Hadsund, you can first consider which experiences should be the focus of your stay. Those who enjoy walking by the fjord, exploring harbours and taking advantage of cultural offerings will look for something different from someone who mainly wants to plan cycling and hiking routes. These include a paved 11-kilometre cycle route through flat terrain, the approximately 48-kilometre section of the North Sea Trail, protected landscapes and historic sites. When choosing your accommodation, check which activities are particularly important for your travel group and what kind of daily itinerary you prefer.

As additional destinations for planning your trip, you can also consider Ajstrup, Hobro, Glenstrup, Helberskov, Øster Hurup, Astrup, Als and Mariager.

For the higher-level travel overview: Mariagerfjord Municipality.