The Ultimate Guide to Observing the Wild Horses of Langeland – Part 1

When you hear the word “Denmark”, you probably think “Copenhagen”, “Little Mermaid”, but wild horses? You will have to do some extra driving, but believe me, it’s worth it!

Where?

Langeland is one of the smaller island of Denmark, located to the south of Fyn (the big central island). You will have to fly to Billund then instead of Copenhagen, but that gives you three advantages:

• It’s closer to your destination.
• You avoid the bridge between Zealand and Fyn, which is quite expensive. Instead, you drive on the bridge between Jutland and Fyn, which is free and shorter.
• Flights to Billund are generally cheaper.

Once you reach Fyn, drive into the direction of Svendborg. From there, go further south and cross the island of Tåsinge. Here you can visit the pretty town of Troense and the impressive Valdemar Slot (castle). Continue southeast and you arrive at Langeland.

What?

It’s an island of contrasts, Langeland. Go north and you see picturesque coastal towns. The south is very different though, with fewer towns and villages and large surfaces with long, thick grass. And that grass is the reason that the Wild Horses came here. They have to eat the grass, so that the sun can reach the bottom. Thus, there will be a bigger variety of plants and animals.

Two important observations:

• “Wild” does not mean “feral”, it does mean that the horses live with little human intervention.
• Technically, they are not horses, but Exmoor ponies. They are less tall and especially in winter, have a thicker coat.

The horses came in 2006 in a small group (about a dozen) to Langeland. During the years, their number has grown to a herd of 60 – 70 animals. And quite unexpectedly, they have become a tourist attraction as well. But finding them can be tricky.

How?

Upon arrival, follow the 305 in the direction of Bagenkop. As soon as you approach this harbor town, you will see a windmill at your left. Follow that road and you will soon see one of the two viewpoints. And then you have to be patient!

As an aspie, I am very fond of animals, especially dogs, bears, and horses. Thus, Lars and I have observed and photographed the Wild Horses on many occasions. I will gradually publish these pictures, so expect more parts to come in the next months or years.

If you miss these 2 viewpoints, don’t worry: there is another one. Get back to the 305 and closer to Bagenkop, on your right, there is a sign to another viewpoint, located on a high steep hill!

Final remarks:

• Langeland – and especially the south – does not have that many tourist amenities. Better try Svendborg. We always use booking.com.
• The best seasons to see the horses are spring and summer. There is usually a strong wind, so dress warmly if you decide to go in the other two seasons.
• The horses live in an enclosure, but there are a couple of places where you have access to them. Follow the safety measures!

Have you ever seen these horses? Would you like to? What other parts of Denmark do you like? Let us know in the comments!