Ydø on Nakskow Fjord: Dike Paths, Island History and Nature

Ydø offers views of a maritime landscape where dikes, fjord and the history of a former island realm are closely intertwined. For active days, paths lead towards Albuen on foot and by bicycle, while nature and cultural attractions shape the southern Nakskow Fjord.

Cycling along the fjord

Regional Cycle Route 38 runs along the southern part of Nakskow Fjord from Nakskov to Albuen. In addition, the “Langs fjorden” cycling route has been established on the section of dike between Nakskov and Albuen, then continuing back to Nakskov via smaller country roads. The landscape of the “Lost Island Realm” is best experienced by bicycle along the top of the dike from Nakskov to Albuen. The description of the “Langs fjorden” route in the Naturlandet app is considered comprehensive.

The Munkeruten, also known as Digestien, also follows the dike along Nakskow Fjord. It passes the former islands of Ydø, Langø and Vejlø. In this way, today’s routes connect with a landscape whose former island structure reaches back into the history of the region.

Island history and living culture

Before the major land reclamation following the storm surge of 1872, Ydø was one of ten islands in the southern Nakskow Fjord. In the Middle Ages, Albuen was an important fishing and trading site and is first mentioned in 1416. Albuen is also home to Lodshuset, dating from 1873, which serves as a nature centre and living museum.

Another cultural and historical destination is Kappel Stubmølle. It was built around 1730 and remained in operation until 1935. In summer, the mill is open every Tuesday afternoon; members of the mill guild are present and talk about the mill. Weather permitting, its sails are fitted and the mill is operated.

Protected nature on Nakskow Fjord

Nakskow Fjord and the coastal meadows along it are among the most important resting and breeding areas for waders and waterbirds in eastern Denmark. The fjord is protected under the Natura 2000 regulations. Outside the breeding season, thousands of geese and swans forage in the fields of the “Lost Island Realm”, which were once seabed.

Smaller animals are also part of the natural landscape around Ydø and Albuen. Albuen is home to a large population of natterjack toads, while the small green tree frog croaks near Ydø. Krumodde Albuen extends approximately 7.5 km northwards from Ydø and adds another distinctive natural area to the expansive landscape by the water.

Planning hikes and your journey

The hike to Albuen can begin in Ydø, where a campsite serves as a starting point. For this hike, the car can be parked by the ramp. During the summer months, the mail boat “Vesta” provides an additional local option: it operates in June, July and August according to a fixed timetable. This makes it possible to combine hiking, cycling, maritime history and nature observation when planning a trip around Ydø.

More destinations: Horslunde, Sletnæs, Hoby, Hyldtofte, Sakskøbing, Askø By, Maribo, Holeby

For the overarching travel overview: Lolland.