Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Fanø
Pop 3200
The intimate island of Fanø holds more charm than the larger, more-popular island of
Rømø, further south. It may have something to do with the means of arrival (is it just us,
or is a boat more romantic than a 10km-long causeway?). And this island backs it up with
two traditional seafaring settlements full of idyllic thatch-roofed houses, blooming gardens
and cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and cafes.
Beach-goers are blessed with wide, welcoming strips of sand on the exposed west coast,
and a lively summer-season atmosphere. All this, and it's just 12 minutes from Esbjerg -
too easy.
Sights
The main villages of Nordby and Sønderho lie at each end of the 16km-long island; ferries
from Esbjerg arrive at
Nordby
.
Sønderho
in particular is one of Denmark's most charm-
ing villages. It dates from the 16th century and has more than a hint of Middle Earth to its
jumble of thatched houses.
The tourist office can provide brochures and maps outlining on-foot exploration of
Nordby and Sønderho. The villages are home to a few low-key
museums
detailing Fanø's
rich maritime history. Fanø's golden age peaked in the late 19th century, when it boasted
the largest fleet outside Copenhagen; over a period of 150 years it was the site for the con-
struction of more than 1000 vessels.
With time and interest, check out Nordby's maritime or history museum. Sønderho has
an art museum and an original 19th-century sea-captain's house known as Hannes Hus.
Activities
If you're here on a day trip, it can be enjoyable to wander around Nordby to soak up the
charm, then jump on the bus to Sønderho, or hire a bike, visit the beach, take a boat trip or
see where the mood takes you - maybe to the local links
golf course
(
www.fanoe-golf-
links.dk
), the oldest golf course in Denmark. Other options include horse riding and sea
kayaking - ask at the tourist office.
