Introduction to Central Jutland

The central part of Jutland cuts across a broad swath of the country, extending from the gateway city of Fredericia in the south to Viborg and Limfjord (a large inland fjord) in the north. The east side of Central Jutland is more populous than the west, which is a wide plain of windswept moors bordered by a rugged coastline of beach flats and sand dunes.

Small farms and rich fertile land characterize the rolling hills of the central belt's eastern shores. But since the 19th century, much of the land in the west has also been reclaimed; great parts of it have been transformed into pastureland and fields against the competition of North Sea winds.

Central Jutland contains some of the most sparsely populated regions of Denmark, although it has cities too -- notably Århus (the largest city in the region), as well as Silkeborg, Randers, and others.

It is also one of the most hospitable regions of Denmark. Locals are proud of a landscape that ranges from wide expanses of heath to lovely fields of heather to charming towns. Central Jutland also has some of the best beaches in Denmark, with vast stretches of white sand. Art museums, galleries, concerts, and beautiful old churches add to the allure.

The best towns in east Central Jutland are Jelling, Vejle, and Århus. If you'd like to base your travels in the Lake District, favorite spots include Ebeltoft, Silkeborg, and Ry. In the interior, Randers makes the best stopover, and if you want a base on the central west coast, make it Ringkøbing.

Jelling is one of the most historic spots in Denmark, and Legoland is Jutland's most visited attraction. The liveliest and most diverse cultural scene is found in Århus, Denmark's second-largest city with some quarter of a million residents.

For rail and bus information to any town, call tel. 70-13-14-15.