The mainland part of Faaborg-Midtfyn is part of the Geopark Det Sydfynske Øhav, which has been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2024. The Geopark encompasses one of the world’s largest flooded glacial landscapes. In Faaborg-Midtfyn, you can explore this natural environment as well as traces of craftsmanship, faith and regional history.

Landscape and trails

Svanninge Bakker combines open spaces and viewpoints with species-rich dry grasslands, woodland and ponds. There is also an old observatory or viewing tower with an exhibition on the region’s natural and cultural history. More than 35 kilometres of marked hiking trails and six marked themed routes provide access to the Bakker. The options range from paths through the landscape to routes with their own specific themes.

Another natural highlight is Arreskov Sø: at 317 hectares, it is the largest lake on Funen. The lake and its surroundings are protected under Natura 2000 because of the many rare animal and plant species that live there. In Sollerup Skov, the varied woodland includes old beech trees, wet alder forest, and younger coniferous and deciduous plantings. A marked trail through the forest leads to a birdwatching tower on the western shore of Arreskov Sø.

The routes also vary in character. The Øhavsstien runs from the village of Faldsled in the west via Svanninge Bakker and Svanninge Bjerge, with a detour via Sundbakkerne to Faaborg, and continues to Fjællebroen Marina. A four-kilometre section of the Faaborg stretch runs from the north to Faaborg. In Svanninge Bakker, an MTB loop of more than eight kilometres also winds through the natural landscape. Naturstien Ringe-Korinth follows a former railway line between Ringe and Korinth; it can be used for running, hiking, cycling, inline skating and horseback riding.

Discover culture and history

The museums each offer a different focus: Øhavsmuseet presents the cultural heritage of South Funen and the region’s history. Its sensory exhibition explores life in the Geopark region of Det Sydfynske Øhav. Faaborg Museum is designed as a total work of art combining painting, sculpture, architecture and furniture design; its permanent exhibition includes works by the Funen Painters and sculptures. Den Gamle Gaard, meanwhile, presents the cultural history of Faaborg and its surroundings and has served as a town museum since 1932.

The historic sites also tell very different stories. Egeskov Slot is open to visitors during the day, who can explore its history; the castle also serves as a residence and museum. Egeskov Mølle is a historic windmill offering guided tours and activities. Grubbe Mølle comprises an old watermill and a Dutch-style windmill. Kaleko Mølle dates back to the 17th century; its thatched buildings serve as a museum.

A model offers a special view of the town’s history: Faaborg Miniby depicts Faaborg at a scale of 1:10, as the town looked in 1890. Brahetrolleborg Kirke dates from around 1250 and was originally a monastery church. It is open to visitors daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; check visiting hours before you travel. Svanninge Kirke combines a more recent construction date with a clear architectural attribution: it was built in 1838 and designed by Professor G. F. Hetsch.

Among the older traces is Skjerninghøj, a burial mound dating from around 3000 BC, with a well-preserved megalithic burial chamber. Slender visitors can crawl inside the chamber; a flashlight is recommended. This may depend on conditions at the site. The remains of an early medieval fortification are also located in Sollerup Enge.

From the harbour to further discoveries

Ferries from Faaborg Havn provide access to Avernakø, Lyø and Bjørnø. The journey to Avernakø takes 35 minutes and the journey to Lyø takes 45 minutes; check sailing times before your trip. A 12.5-kilometre kayak route runs from Faaborg Havn around Bjørnø. For another way to explore cultural history, Carl Nielsen’s Camino ends in Faaborg, with views of the South Funen Archipelago. The 120-kilometre audio walking trail runs from Odense to Faaborg, is divided into twelve stages and is available free of charge through the Useeum app.

Discover more destinations: Bøjden, Dyreborg, Faldsled, Fjællebroen, Faaborg, Horne, Korinth, Svanninge, Tommerup, Vester Hæsinge, Årslev, Broby, Gislev, Ølsted, Østerby, Millinge, Falden, Kværndrup, Ringe, Nørre Lyndelse.

To the main travel overview: Funen.