Tuno Island: Denmark's Untouched Beauty
On our recent visit to Kystlandet in Denmark with the British Guild of Travel Writers we were fortunate enough to visit the island of Tuno which lies someway off the eastern shore of Jutland, about an hour’s sail from Snaptun, the ferry town which is located at the moth of the Horsen Fjord.
Tuno is one of those peaceful, unspoiled islands which promises an immersive experience. Often overshadowed by its more renowned neighbours, Tuno offers visitors a chance to break away from the bustling tourist spots and find serenity amidst its natural beauty. And one of the recommended ways to explore this island is by taking a walk around its perimeter, an experience that offers an unparalleled view of both the land and the sea. Which is exactly what we did on a day which began stormy and wet and ended stormy and wet - which meant we were very fortunate indeed to enjoy a weather window which brought us sunshine and a warm breeze.
Starting the Journey: The Tuno Harbour
Begin your journey at Tuno's port a small but picturesque location where you can see local fishermen at work and the occasional sailboat anchored in the bay. The harbour, with its quintessential Scandinavian architecture, offers the perfect preamble to what lies ahead.
Lush Green Fields
As you start walking north from the harbour, you begin to see evidence of what look to be highly productive fields. The landscape further inland is dotted with traditional Danish farmhouses, and you can see the church tower of Tuno By, the island’s central village.
The Northern Shores: Rocky Outcrops and Bird-watching
Soon you come to the point which marks the north-eastern corner of the island - and this introduces you to the northern edge of Tuno. The shoreline here is more rugged, with its rocky outcrops providing an interesting contrast to the smooth sands you'd find elsewhere on the island. The cliffs here are home to a variety of seabirds, making this stretch a paradise for bird-watchers.
The Forest
The northern part of Tuno is where you'll encounter a dense growth of trees, presenting a forest-like ambiance. The walking trail here is shaded, and the temperature noticeably cooler. If you're lucky, you might spot some of the island's native wildlife, such as deer or rabbits.
Eastern Delight: Beaches and Dunes
As you continue your journey east, the terrain gradually changes to soft sandy beaches. These beaches are mostly desolate, save for the occasional visitor soaking in the sun or children building sandcastles. The low dunes are covered here or there with tufts of marram grass, making for some beautiful photographic opportunities.
Southern Shore
Now it’s a long but very pleasant and easy two-and-a-half mile stroll back along the undulating hills which make up the southern shoreline,
Back to Civilisation: Ending at the Harbour
Your perimeter walk culminates back at the harbour, bringing the journey full circle. The entire walk can be completed in a few hours, but it’s advisable to take it slow, allowing yourself to immerse in the myriad experiences Tuno offers. We enjoyed a truly fabulous seafood lunch at the harbourside restaurant which specialises in freshly smoked fish.
Conclusion
Tuno might not be the first name that pops up when you think of visiting Denmark, but it's certainly a destination that deserves a spot on the Scandinavian traveller's bucket list. A walk around its shores provides a comprehensive glimpse into the natural beauty and tranquil lifestyle of this Scandinavian gem. Whether you’re an avid nature lover, a photographer, or someone just looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Tuno promises an experience you won't soon forget.
