Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THE SOUTH FUNEN ARCHIPELAGO
The South Funen Archipelago (in Danish, Det Sydfynske Øhav) is the name given to the
55 islands and uninhabited islets south of Faaborg and Svendborg. These are some of
Denmark's true gems, and with some time and a sense of exploration, you could visit a
few to pick a favourite.
Islands
Other than the larger islands of Tåsinge and Langeland (connected to Funen by road)
and Ærø (everyone's favourite nautical-but-nice isle, accessible by ferry only), there are a
handful of smaller islands that can easily be reached by scheduled summertime boat ser-
vices from Faaborg and Svendborg.
These are wee gems designed for cycling, sailing, strolling, swimming and relaxation -
most have summertime bike rental. Daytrips are a delight, but overnighting opportunities
(including camping grounds and small marinas) also exist on many islands (check be-
forehand!).
From Faaborg
The Visit Faaborg site (
www.visitfaaborg.dk
) has information on the is-
lands
Lyø
,
Avernakø
and
Bjørnø
.
From Svendborg
The Visit Svendborg site (
www.visitsvendborg.dk
) has information on
Drejø
,
Skarø
and
Hjortø
.
Tourist offices in the area provide information, maps and ferry schedules - other useful
planning resources are Visit Fyn (
www.visitfyn.com
), and the excellent Archipelago Map
(available online at
www.archipelagomap.dk
).
Activities
The Archipelago Map outlines the great activities in the area, including sea kayaking,
windsurfing, angling, sailing and - of course - cycling, as well as companies that can help
you access the outdoors.
One of the headline acts in this area is the 220km
Øhavssti
(Archipelago Trail), a long-
distance walking trail that snakes its way from west to east along the southern edges of
Funen and across to northern Langeland; the final section spans the length of Ærø. The
trail takes in some of the most beautiful countryside in the region. It can be tackled in
sections or attempted from start to finish.
Tourist offices in the region carry the seven-pamphlet series of free map guides (which
each cover 25km to 35km of the trail's length; in Danish, German or English) or you can
buy a detailed guidebook. There is information and PDF downloads online at
