Visitvesterhavet

Ølgod

Ølgod is also an ambitious cultural city with significant annual imprints such as the culture days in the autumn. "Skulptur Ølgod" is an association of local enthusiasts who over the years have bought, exhibited and beautified the city with work from well-known artists.

Ølgod
photo: Leif Møller

On your journey through the south-western part of Denmark, you should make time for a stop in the charming town of Ølgod. This small railway town, set in the heart of the south-west Jutland landscape, offers culture, sculptures, poetry and Denmark’s first cooperative dairy. There are enjoyable experiences for both young and old, a welcoming local shopping scene and plenty of activities. Nature and village life blend seamlessly, helping to create a relaxed and hospitable atmosphere.

Surrounded by fields and open expanses, Ølgod and the surrounding area bear witness to a thriving agricultural tradition that stretches back hundreds of years. The story of this agricultural heritage and its proud farmers can be explored at the town’s small local museum. Here, you gain a vivid insight into the journey from the poor heath farmer to the independent, democratic farmer of later times.

If your interest in history has been sparked and you are keen to explore more local and national history, a visit to Ølgod Library is well worth your time. The library is located in Ølgod Cultural Centre, which also houses a newspaper reading room, a music and art school, and a cultural hall frequently used by local associations. Settle into one of the library’s cosy reading corners and immerse yourself in history for a while.

One thing the locals in Ølgod are particularly proud of is being home to Denmark’s first cooperative dairy, which was inaugurated in 1882. The simple method of milk production was established here in Ølgod, and when you visit the dairy, you can see just how straightforward the process once was. The dairy remains exactly as it was when it first opened, and like the museum, admission is free. You simply need to call to receive a code for access.

As you walk around the town, you will soon notice the many sculptures placed throughout the area. These are striking works of art that Ølgod has acquired through the Danish Sculptors’ Society, helping to establish the town as West Jutland’s sculpture epicentre. Every other year, an exhibition is held in Ølgod, where artists from across the country come to display their work. Through this initiative, Ølgod now boasts 30 sculptures that add character and beauty to the townscape.

If nature holds a special place in your hearts, Ølgod is a must-visit destination. The area offers countless winding paths, lakes with rare dragonflies, and the poetic grove Hanssine, where many well-known Danish poets have been honoured. Take a walk along the History Path, which features 13 stopping points with short stories along its 6-kilometre route. At Svanesøen, you may be lucky enough to see Denmark’s national bird up close – the nesting mute swan, after which the lake in Ølgod is named. If you would like to add a few more kilometres to your walk, you can follow the path around Ølgod, which stretches for a full 9 kilometres. Along the way, you are treated to beautiful natural scenery that delights the eye. The lakes and winding paths allow your thoughts to drift and your breathing to settle into a calm rhythm – depending, of course, on how fast you walk.

Skærbæk Mølle Golf Club in Ølgod is one of the most beautiful golf courses in West Jutland – and rightly so. It is set in stunning natural surroundings with tall trees, heathland, picturesque streams and lakes. Green fee players are welcome, and the club also offers a well-maintained Pay & Play course. After a good round of golf, you can enjoy a refreshment in the clubhouse.

Not far from Ølgod are two smaller towns: Strellev and Krusbjerg. The latter is a small and charming village where the church is well worth a visit. Its beautiful altarpiece from 1951 adorns the church interior. Near Strellev, there are excellent opportunities to spend a morning or afternoon in a peaceful natural area with a bonfire site and a playground. Pack a picnic and remember the marshmallows. Here, you can enjoy pleasant hours in scenic surroundings with swings and playhouses for the children. The small picnic shelter ensures that you can sit comfortably and stay dry.

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Strellev and Krusbjerg