Geopark – The South Funen Archipelago

GEOPARK

– THE SOUTH FUNEN ARCHIPELAGO

Ærø is a part of a flooded ice age landscape that is in a class of its own . The most recent ice age ended around 11,700 years ago, when Denmark was joined with South England and South Sweden, and when what are now the island of Funen and the South Funen Archipelago formed a single, continuous stretch of countryside featuring hills, forests and lakes . As the last giant ice caps over North America and Northern Scandinavia melted, sea levels rose all over the world . The low-lying land south of Funen was flooded, while the higher points in the landscape remained above water, becoming the 55 islands and islets we know today . Thus was formed the South Funen Archipelago . The unique seascape of shallows, innumerable small islands and a varied coastline is truly special and, to this day, provides perfect conditions for a thriving community, shipping industry and agriculture on South Funen and the islands .

THREE FASCINATING NATURE AREAS ON ÆRØ Eriks Hale is the name of Marstal’s beautiful beach, and it is one of three tongues of land on the island . The special feature of these narrow stretches of land is how close the sea is on all sides . Stand here and experience the sense of bestriding a landscape that has drowned . Voderup Klint is an absolute “must see” and one of the finest vantage points on Ærø . Giant steps in the landscape lead all the way down to the beach and the magnificent area is well-known for its rich variety of flora and fauna . The whole of Voderup is an internationally protected nature area . Næbbet is one of the most important and fascinating areas of Ærø for everyone interested in birds and plants . The area between Skjoldnæs Lighthouse and Næbbet is also a firm favourite with anglers on account of the shallow water and the strong current .

GUIDED TOURS You can take part in guided tours of Ærø’s wonderful countryside all year round . See all the options at: visitaeroe .com/events .

VODERUP KLINT

NÆBBET