Shelterplads ved De Himmerlandske Heder

## Overview Shelterplads ved De Himmerlandske Heder is a public drinking spring located in the heart of the Himmerlandske Heaths (De Himmerlandske Heder) in northern Jutland, Denmark. Situated at approximately 56.906°N, 9.371°E, this spring is found within one of Denmark's largest remaining heathland areas — a landscape shaped by centuries of grazing and traditional land management. The Himmerlandske Heaths are known for their sweeping expanses of heather, juniper scrub, and gently rolling terrain, offering a rare glimpse into the open, wind-swept landscapes that once dominated much of the Danish peninsula. The name "Shelterplads" indicates the spring is located at or near a designated shelter site, a common feature along Danish nature trails where hikers and cyclists can rest, camp, and access basic amenities. Springs in this region typically draw from shallow groundwater filtered through sandy, glacially deposited soils — a geological legacy of the last Ice Age that left behind the nutrient-poor, acidic substrates on which the heathlands thrive. Historically, the heaths of Himmerland have been used as common grazing land and were integral to rural life in the region for centuries. Today, the area is protected and managed to preserve its unique ecology, which includes rare plant species and birdlife. The spring has historically served as a source of drinking water for visitors passing through the heathlands, though as with any natural water source, conditions can vary. ## Directions 1. The spring is located within De Himmerlandske Heder in the Himmerland region of northern Jutland, Denmark. 2. Use the GPS coordinates **56.905939, 9.371481** to navigate to the shelter site. 3. The area is accessible via local roads and trails that cross the heathlands. Look for signage indicating "Shelterplads" (shelter site) along the marked hiking or cycling routes through the heath. 4. Parking may be available at nearby trailheads serving De Himmerlandske Heder — check local trail maps or the Danish Nature Agency (Naturstyrelsen) website for the most current access points. ## What to Expect Visitors will find a public drinking spring situated at a shelterplads — a simple, open-air rest stop typical of Danish nature areas. These shelter sites often include a basic wooden shelter, a fire pit, and sometimes a picnic table, making them popular with hikers, cyclists, and overnight campers exploring the heathlands. The surrounding landscape is quintessential Danish heath: low-growing heather, scattered juniper bushes, and wide-open skies. In late summer (August–September), the heather blooms in vivid purple, transforming the terrain into one of Denmark's most photogenic natural scenes. The spring water has historically been used as drinking water by visitors to the area. Water flow and quality may vary with the seasons, particularly during dry summer months. The terrain is generally flat and accessible, though trails across the heath can be sandy and uneven in places. Sturdy footwear is recommended. De Himmerlandske Heder is a peaceful and relatively uncrowded destination, ideal for those seeking solitude and a connection with Denmark's wild heathland heritage.