Famed for its historic salt manufacturing industry, Læsø is a large island in the Kattegat strait, between Denmark’s Jutland peninsula and the Swedish mainland. It is ringed by white, sandy beaches that provide habitat for seals and is one of the biggest exporters of langoustines in Europe.
Things to do in Læsø Island
Begin your visit at Byrum’s Museum House, which features exhibits about Læsø's cultural history and a small cafe where you can grab hot drinks and snacks. If you’re interested in the island’s production of salt, head to the Salzsiederei Læsø where you can see 800-year-old techniques in action. Freshly boiled Læsø salt can be purchased on site.
Also on the outskirts of Byrum is the Museumsgården, a historic residence that appears as it did in the mid-19th century. Take note of the unique seaweed roof and the building’s timber, which was sourced from ships that ran aground on the island’s coast. On the grounds of the Museumsgården is one of the 70+ stub mills that once dotted Læsø and was used for grinding corn.
Travelling with kids? They’ll love meeting the friendly donkeys, lambs and goats at Storhaven, a charming farmhouse where you can purchase locally milled flour, handicrafts and delicious ice cream. Alternatively, enjoy a long stroll on one of Læsø’s wild beaches, such as Storedal or Hvidebakker. Between the two is Horneks Odde where you’ll find several old lobster huts and binoculars for viewing the resident seals and birdlife.
Getting around Læsø Island
Regular ferries connect to Læsø from Frederikshavn while charter flights are available from Roskilde Airport near Copenhagen to the island’s small airfield. Public buses travel across Læsø from the port of Vesterby to the village of Østerby. Otherwise, renting a bike is the most convenient way of getting around the island.