Abandoned railway to become attractive recreational path in Denmark

Four municipalities have joined forces to transform the Bramming-Grindsted line

On 15 December, the Danish Municipality of Varde reported it has joined forces with Billund, Vejen, and Esbjerg to develop a new recreational path. To do so, the four municipalities first signed an agreement with the rail company BaneDenmark to officially take over the Bramming-Grindsted line.

This line was built over 100 years ago (between 1916 and 1920) and was used to transport lignite until the 1960s. According to a press release by Varde Municipality, the last freight train set off in 2012. The railway line has since remained abandoned. 

Potential for cycling and hiking

The municipalities have now set out to transform the railway into a recreational path that will benefit all residents and tourists. As the 40-kilometre-long line does not have any sharp turns, it has the potential to become a popular cycle path. In addition to this, it is surrounded by nature and greenery that make it attractive to citizens who enjoy long walks.

Representatives from the four municipalities commented on the ambitious project, noting that the transformation of the old railway line will generate numerous opportunities and boost domestic tourism. Moreover, it will promote exercise and sustainable mobility as residents will now feel more inclined to walk or cycle in the area.

Beyond this, the Danish municipalities believe that the railway line has potential for long-distance hiking as it crosses several other major paths. Further commenting on the path’s potential, the Chairman of the Engineering and Construction Committee in Esbjerg Municipality, Søren Lambertsen, shared:

“The path will create better connections in an area where recreational opportunities are limited, and I hope we can strengthen domestic tourism with a path established in green surroundings, where it is only at the crossings that you come across vehicles.”

The municipalities will begin working on the development of the recreational path in 2022.