Ejer Bavnehøj
Midtjylland
Ejer Bavnehøj stands as the third-highest natural elevation in Denmark at 170.35 meters above sea level. Located in the southern part of Skanderborg municipality between Riis and Ejer villages, it is part of the scenic Ejer Hills. The summit features a 12.5-meter tall tower built in 1924, dedicated to the reunion of South Jutland with Denmark after World War I. Historically, the site served as a beacon hill where signal fires warned of approaching enemies, a practice reflected in its name which translates to "Beacon Hill." The tower bears inscriptions honoring the Danish people's efforts and the reunification of North Schleswig with the motherland in 1920. From the tower, visitors can enjoy panoramic views extending to Samsø island and the Little Belt Bridge on clear days. The surrounding area has been protected since 1917 to preserve its natural beauty and views, with additional protections added in 2006 to enhance visitor experience. Nearby peaks include Yding Skovhøj and Møllehøj, the latter being Denmark's highest natural point, located just 200 meters west of Ejer Bavnehøj.
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Tip: The best time to visit Ejer Bavnehøj is during clear weather to fully appreciate the expansive views from the tower, including sights of Samsø and the Little Belt Bridge. Visitors are encouraged to explore the surrounding Ejer Hills and nearby peaks like Møllehøj. Although entrance is free, checking local information on opening hours and any visitor services before arrival is advisable. The site is accessible year-round, but spring through early autumn offers the most pleasant conditions. No specific ticketing is required, and some discounts may apply for groups or seniors at nearby visitor centers.
Interesting facts
- •Ejer Bavnehøj is Denmark's third-highest natural point at 170.35 meters above sea level.
- •The 12.5-meter tower atop Ejer Bavnehøj was built in 1924 to commemorate the reunification of South Jutland with Denmark after World War I.
- •The name "Bavnehøj" translates to "Beacon Hill," reflecting its historical use for lighting warning fires.
- •From the tower, visitors can see as far as Samsø island and the Little Belt Bridge on clear days.
- •The area around Ejer Bavnehøj was among the first to be protected under Denmark's nature conservation laws in 1917.
History
Ejer Bavnehøj has long been known as a strategic beacon site where signal fires were lit to warn of approaching enemies, hence its name meaning "Beacon Hill." In 1917, a portion of the hill was protected under Denmark's first nature conservation law.
Following World War I, a monument stone was erected in 1920 to commemorate South Jutland's reunification with Denmark.
Subsequently, a tower designed by Jens Laustsen was completed in 1924, bearing inscriptions celebrating this reunion.
In 2006, additional land was protected to preserve the views and improve visitor facilities.
Place Guide
Reunion Tower1924
A 12.5-meter tall tower built in 1924, designed by Jens Laustsen, commemorating the reunification of South Jutland with Denmark. The tower features inscriptions honoring the Danish people and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including distant sights like Samsø and the Little Belt Bridge.
