Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Danish Culture
Starling magic. Photo: Lars Krucov Detlef
Relax, explore and sightsee on Denmark’s west coast Esbjerg is Denmark’s newest city, and 30 minutes away by train is Denmark’s oldest town, Ribe – an old Viking settlement. Looking out from Esbjerg, there are two islands: Mandø and Fanø, both of which were on the New York Times list of places to see in 2019. The whole area is surrounded by the Wadden Sea, a UNESCO Heritage Site, which brings with it an exceptional flora, fauna and feeling not found anywhere else in Denmark. By Josefine Older Steffensen
The region provides the perfect place to explore the many facets of Denmark and the Danes. Ribe was established in the Viking Age, and has since then grown to become one of Denmark’s most beautiful towns, with a rich history and a thriving community. Esbjerg, on the other hand, shows off the modern side of Denmark, being built around a big fishing harbour, and today becoming a hub for technology companies – all of this, while surrounded by some of the most unique nature Denmark has to offer. 86 | Issue 121 | February 2019
Getting outside in the fresh air The Wadden Sea is a large nature reserve where the daily tides create both roaring seas and a calm open space, making it possible to drive on the seabed. Within the Wadden Sea, the two islands Fanø and Mandø sit as peaceful communities. “One of my favourite things to do is to get my car and drive to Mandø when the tide is low. Sitting on the beach there with a packed lunch, you really feel like you’re on a holiday where no one can reach you. It is incredibly
beautiful and peaceful,” explains Jane Madvig Søndergaard, head of tourism at Business Esbjerg. Fanø is reached by ferry from Esbjerg, and upon arrival to the island there are usually seals waiting to welcome everyone. There are also seal safaris on offer, as well as pristine beaches and beautiful houses. To Mandø, it is possible to take your own car or the tractor bus. During the colder months, there are oyster safaris in the nature reserve, providing an opportunity to try the freshest oysters. The best place to start if wanting to find out more about the Wadden Sea is the Wadden Sea Centre in Vester Vedsted. Twice a year, it is also possible to see the magic of starlings, when murmurations of the birds spread across the sky. They gather every spring and autumn,