| Stage 5, Nykøbing F. - Gedser 25 km
If you want to extend your stay in the beautiful southern part of Denmark, then there are plenty of places worth visiting near Nykøbing (S). Reptile enthusiasts will find that the unique animal park in Eskilstrup [A], just ten kilometres from Nykøbing, is an absolute must: with 19 of the 23 species of crocodile alive today, there are more large reptiles here than in any other zoo in Europe. Music lovers should visit the manor house in Fuglsang [C] and admire the exceedingly beautiful park which is open all year. Fuglsang is located just a few kilometres from Nykøbing amidst rivers and woodland. In the summer in particular, this is a highly evocative setting, perfect for the concerts that are staged here.
The route continues along the coast via Hasselø to Væggerløse [1]. From here, you should take a detour to Stovby [D] where you can visit the glass-blowing workshop housed in the town´s restored mill. Another possibility is a visit to Marielyst [E], where you can enjoy one of the many attractions for the whole family, or simply relax on the beach. The beaches along the southern tip of Denmark are some of the best around the Baltic. Their fine sand makes them particularly well-suited for children and there is plenty of room for everyone, even on the hottest summer days. There is a naturist area and a bird reserve near Bøtø Skov wood, and lots of places to stay in town. Back on the route, you´ll soon reach Marrebæk [2]. The museum of regional history features large numbers of fossils that tell many a strange tale from the region. Continue along the route via Fiskebæk [3] and Skelby [4], admiring the many windmills that line the road. Their slim wings slice almost silently through the air. At the other side of Gedesby [5], the route carries on down an asphalted road through a flat area, past fields and meadows to Gedser (D).
The landscape around the former fishing hamlet of Gedser, situated in the shadow of the 200-year-old lighthouse, is in a class of its own. The steep south coast with the stormy ocean contrasts starkly with the wide, attractive sandy beaches just a few hundred metres further north. The sight of the foaming waves hurling themselves against the cliff is quite something, but even on quiet days this is a beautiful place. Then, there are birds bobbing about on the ocean, and sometimes you may even be lucky enough to see the odd seal. It´s surprising how rough the usually calm waters of the Baltic can be.
In Gedser you´ll forget the time as you take in the many historical buildings in the town. The lighthouse from 1802 continues to guide ships safely even today. Gedser Vandtårn, the local water tower, is equally remarkable. From the viewing platform, it affords a fantastic view of the town and the extraordinary landscape. If you are interested in technology, then pay a visit to Gedser Redningsstation, the life-saving station. All the equipment and procedures used in a state-of-the-art sea rescue station are demonstrated here - the skills of the rescue personnel are often the only thing that can save human lives in cases of navigational error. If you wish to know more about traffic on land, Gedser Remise has an exhibition of old trains and trams. If you simply need a rest after a hard day in the saddle, however, then go to Gedser Vandland (Aquarama), a water park for everyone where the motto is fun and games, with guaranteed enjoyment for the whole family!
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