The stage's 13 kilometers take you through varied nature and past Vojens Church, Tørning Mill, and the Northern Defense Position. In Vedsted, you can swim in Vedsted Lake, which is one of the cleanest lakes in Southern Jutland.
Vojens-Vedsted
Vojens ChurchFrom auxiliary cemetery to the red chapel to Vojens Church: It has taken time before Vojens Church was built, and the cemetery is older than the church itself.
The cemetery in Vojens was established in 1878, and although it was originally under the administration of Jegerup Cemetery, it quickly became a central place for the local community. Before long, it was decided to build the red chapel, and from 1883 the deceased could be laid to rest in the chapel. From the congregation, especially the German part, there was a strong desire for a church. The red chapel was converted and equipped with church furnishings, so that in January 1894 it was consecrated as an annex church under Jegerup. Services were held in German, which meant that the Danish inhabitants still had to go to church in Jegerup, where the services were held in Danish.
Finally, Vojens Church was built and consecrated on September 6, 1926, as a reunification church. When you come to the church, it is clear that the red and white colors of the Dannebrog, which are typical for Danish village churches, proudly stand out. You will sense that the church stands as a symbol of our shared identity and with a history that connects Danes, and of course as a place for reflection and remembrance.
Østerled 1, 6500 Vojens
Tørning Mill
When you visit Tørning Mill, you step into a treasure trove of history and nature in the heart of Southern Jutland. Here, the splendor of the past meets the beauty of the present at a place that has witnessed the reigns of kings and counts over land and kingdom.
On the castle mound, where Tørning Castle once stood, you can still feel the sweep of history. Here you will find an ancient fortification, a wall remnant in the park from 1330, the bailiff's house, the oldest house in Vojens from 1700 and now restored, the mill building with a working electric plant and Francis' water turbine, both from 1908.
Tørning Mill is probably an offshoot of milling at the site dating back to the Middle Ages, when Tørning Fief was administered from the fortress at Tørning Fortification. The first reliable information about the exploitation of water power dates from 1494, when King Hans acquired Tørning Mill. The water power, which once flowed through Tørning Stream, now Stevning Dam, has been a source of energy for more than 500 years.
In 1980, the buildings were listed, and today they invite you to explore the site's history. Visit the mill and climb the old stairs to discover the history in the Bailiff's House, where an exhibition tells of the battles between the Danish kings and German dukes.
Find a quiet spot by the lake, open your picnic basket, and let yourself be captivated by the beauty of nature and the presence of history. The office is open all year round on weekdays from 8:00 to 16:00.
Tørningvej 6, 6500 Vojens
Defensive Position North
On the elevated plateau near Pothøj, you will find a well-preserved observation bunker from Defensive Position North on the west side.
Defensive Position North constitutes a fortification line across Southern Jutland, established by the Imperial German Army during World War I between 1916-1918. The line stretched across what was then German Southern Jutland from the east coast at Hoptrup to the west coast at Skærbæk. Originally, the line consisted of barbed wire obstacles, a double line of partially dug-out trenches, artillery positions, and shelters, totaling around 800 bunkers. Today, 31 remain intact.
The route continues along the edge of Abkær Mose and Stengelmose. About 1/2 km west of the route stands a birdwatching tower, from which you can enjoy the view over Abkær Mose.
Ribevej 25, 6230 Rødekro
How do you get to and from the stage using public transportation?
You can find your way to the stage using public transportation by using the Rejseplanen and the Hærvejsapp. To get to the starting point of the stage, enter the destination 'Vojens St.' in Rejseplanen. Once you arrive, you can use the Hærvejsapp to find your way to the Hærvej.
Useful links
Rejseplanen: www.rejseplanen.dk
Get a stamp in your Hærvej Passport
On this stage, you can get a stamp in your Hærvej Passport at Vojens Church and Vedsted Church.
Vojens-Vedsted