The Six Forgotten Giants- Part I
Details
[If you made last minute cancellations/non-shows previously, you might be moved to the waiting list]
The route leads hikers through urban and suburban areas in the Vestegnen region west of Copenhagen, connecting a series of green oases, forests, and lakes where six large trolls are hidden. The story behind the area and the sculptures dates back to 2016, when upcycling artist Thomas Dambo, together with local volunteers, created these giants from recycled waste wood. The project was part of the Vestegnen Cultural Week, designed to draw attention to the area’s overlooked green spaces and the importance of recycling resources. Along the way, the route passes through residential neighborhoods, parklands, wetlands, and coastal areas—the locations of the six giants: Sovende Louis (Sleeping Louis) in Rødovre, Bakketop Trine in Hvidovre, Oscar Under Broen (Oscar Under the Bridge) in Ishøj.
Although the route traverses urbanized zones, its green corridors feature rich vegetation, including willows, ancient oaks and beeches, shrubs. These green spaces are home to diverse wildlife; hikers may spot grey herons, mute swans, coots, and songbirds, as well as small mammals like foxes, hares, squirrels, and roe deer. The route is not marked as a single, continuous trail. The terrain varies, consisting of paved footpaths, wide gravel paths, park trails, and stretches of natural forest floor.
Programme
*09:07-09:12 S-Train B from Valby St. towards Høje Taastrup, get off at Rødovre
09:30 Rødovre Station Meeting point
09:45-14.00 Hiking including breaks
*14:09-14:32 S-train A from Ishøj St. towards Hillerød St., stops at Sydhavn St., Dybbølsbro St., KBH H
For those who are interested, we could go head to Arken to see the exhibition Thomas Danbo "The Garbage Man" and enjoy a hot cuppa.
Note 1: Train timing is only indicative, please check some days prior our excursion.
*Note 2: This is NOT a circular route, in case you wanted to park your vehicle.
Route
Distance: ~19-21km
Elevation gain: ~130m
The six forgotten giants (we will cover only the first portion of the trail)
Discomfort level - 2 out of 5
Easy trail and pace but moderate distance
What to bring
- Good walking or trail running shoes, no flat soles
- Water and beverages
- Snack, lunch
- Hat, sunglasses and sun lotion
- Rain jacket and wind breaker
- Good mood & smile :-)
