Gulddalslund Plantation is a young forest north of Skovlund, where the trip quickly gains more layers than just trees and gravel underfoot. The paths wind through the plantation, and inside the forest lies Børges Lake with a fire hut close to the water. That makes the place well suited for a short everyday walk, a packed lunch in shelter, or a longer outing where the forest does not have to be the only destination.
The plantation borders Ålling Lake, which is private, but according to VisitDenmark there is access via a constructed path around the lake. Here the experience changes from plantation to low, moist lakeside nature with reed beds along the shore. On the east side stands a bird tower, where birdlife can be observed without having to get right down to the edge.
The paths are only sparsely marked, so it is an advantage to orient yourself a little in advance or follow your route along the way. According to local information, the area is not suitable for wheelchairs, people with mobility impairments, or strollers, and there is no toilet in or near the plantation. It is a place where the practical facilities are simple, but the combination of young forest, a small lake, a fire hut and onward access to Ålling Lake gives the trip a clear local rhythm.
Ålling Lake lies directly next to Gulddalslund Plantation and is protected. The lake is private, but there is access via a constructed path around it; the loop is just under two kilometers.
On the eastern side stands a bird tower, where you can look out over the bird life without getting too close to the shore. The black-necked grebe has been seen breeding here, and from September to January black sun can occur if the flocks gather over the lake.
On All Hallows’ Eve, 31 October 2020, Gulddalslund Plantation was used in a rather unconventional way: as a drive-in Halloween venue. The idea arose spontaneously locally, and surprisingly many cars drove through the forest.
The format made the darkness part of the setting, while keeping the children in the safe surroundings of the car. The following year, the event was repeated, and in 2021, 141 cars were counted in one hour. More about the event can be found under Drive-in Halloween in Gulddalslund Plantation.
