There are a lot of ways to see Lillebælt, the narrow strait between Jutland and the island of Funen, but walking across the top of The Old Lillebælt Bridge is something else entirely.
The Old Lillebælt Bridge connects Jutland and Funen and was built for both trains and cars. Before the bridge was constructed, the crossing was done by ferry, so when it opened in 1935, it made travel between the two parts of Denmark both faster and more reliable. If you’ve driven across the bridge, you’ll know there isn’t much space up there, so how do they make room for bridge walking? As it turns out, there’s a narrow walkway running along the top of the structure, which makes the bridge perfectly suited for it.
All tours start at the visitor center with a safety briefing. Everything is very well organized, and safety is clearly a priority. You’re fitted with a suit and a harness, and when you step onto the bridge, you attach your safety line to a small trolley that runs along a track the entire way. It moves with you as you walk, so you’re secured the whole time.
The climb up is probably what most people worry about, and it’s also the only part that can feel a bit challenging. It’s a mix of stairs and ladders, and steeper than you expect. It’s not difficult, but enough that you become aware of the height, especially if you look down too much. Once you’re up there and step out onto the walkway, everything settles.
The walk itself is easy. The path is narrow but enclosed on both sides, so you feel well protected, and after a few minutes, your attention shifts from the height to everything around you. Boats move through Lillebælt below, and just beneath your feet, cars and trains cross the bridge, sending a low, steady vibration through the structure.
We walked at a relaxed pace with several stops along the way, where the guide shared stories about the bridge and the area, and there was plenty of time to just stand still and take in the view. At the midpoint, you reach the highest point, about 197 feet above the water, and from there, you head back the way you came. You don’t walk all the way across the bridge, but out to the middle and back again.
Along the way, we saw several jackdaws nesting in the structure of the bridge, and the guide told us that a pair of kestrels has also made a nest up there. They were out hunting when we visited, so we didn’t see them that day.
There aren’t many bridges suited for this kind of experience, so Bridge Walking Lillebælt is one of the few places in the world where you can do it. Otherwise, you’d have to go all the way to Australia for the BridgeClimb in Sydney, and beyond that, options are limited, which makes it feel even more special. It’s actually pretty amazing that we have this in Denmark.
On a clear day, you can see far out across the water, and even if you know the area well, everything looks different from up there at 197 feet. It’s hard to describe, but it’s truly amazing and one of the best experiences I’ve had in a long time, and whether you’re visiting or a local, Bridge Walking Lillebælt is something you don’t want to miss.
Tips if you’re considering Bridge Walking Lillebælt
Book in advance
Weekends and holidays often sell out weeks ahead, especially during summer.
Arrive on time
The tour starts with a group briefing, and it takes a while to get everyone geared up and ready.
No phones or cameras allowed
For safety reasons, all loose items must stay on the ground. The guide takes photos during the walk, which you can download for free from their website afterward.
Dress appropriately
Wear good shoes and clothes you can move in, and bring something warm if needed.
Know your limits
If you’re very afraid of heights, this probably isn’t the right experience, even though everything feels safe throughout.
Read more about Bridgewalking Lillebælt and book your experience here
Curious about Denmark and The Heart of Jutland? Visit The Heart of Jutland’s website
or check out their instagram @theheartofjutland
Bridgewalking Lillebælt, Galsklintvej 2, 5500 Middelfart
