Museum Frello
An exhibition where Otto Frello's marvelous paintings are displayed along with a selection of the museum's many objects under the headings: "Reality in Perspective", "Transitions", "Insights and Views" and "Mirrors".
Art Route Varde–Ølgod
Photo: FlyingOctober
The dramatic landscapes and raw beauty of West Jutland have long inspired artists. This cycling tour combines art and activity—starting with Museum Frello in Varde, continuing to Janus Contemporary Art Museum in Tistrup, and finishing with the fascinating sculptures in Ølgod
Photo: VisitVesterhavet
© Børge ChristiansenPhoto: VisitVesterhavet
Route Overview
The tour begins at Varde Train Station and heads into the heart of town, arriving at Torvet (the town square) and Sct. Jacobi Church—Varde’s historical centerpiece (Please note: Cycling is not permitted in the pedestrian zone.) Right beside the square is Otto Frello Museum, its exterior decorated with murals inspired by the artist’s whimsical and imaginative style. Inside, 24 original Frello paintings are used to frame the museum’s cultural history collections.
From the square, the route continues through Varde Garten, a public art garden tucked between the courtyards of Varde. This vibrant space includes “The Sky Above the North Sea,” Denmark’s largest outdoor glass artwork at approx. 89 m². Around a large copper beech tree, you’ll also find sculptures and reliefs made from marble, bronze, granite, ceramic, and steel.
The ride to Tistrup is gentle and easy. Once there, take time to explore JANUS – Museum of Contemporary Art, which focuses on realist, surrealist, and naïve art. There’s also a small on-site café.
From Tistrup, the route follows the railway line towards Ølgod, where art is very much a part of daily life. Ølgod features 24 permanent sculptures, scattered throughout the town for all to enjoy.
To return, you can either cycle the same route back or hop on the train, which brings you back to Varde Station in just over 20 minutes.
Route Highlights
Route Information
Distance & Surface
Approx. 27.5 km (26 km paved / 1.5 km gravel)
Option to return by trainDifficulty
Easy routeTerrain
Mostly flat, typical of the West Jutland landscapeSignage
Signed as Regional Route 2
Season
Can be cycled all year round, weather permitting
Admission
Entry and opening hours apply to Otto Frello Museum and JANUS MuseumParking & Toilets
Available at Varde Train Station, Stationspladsen, 6800 VardeTrain info
A bike ticket is required on all trains. Train staff will determine if there’s room for your bicycle. Bike space cannot be reserved, and bicycles must be placed in the designated areas marked with a bike icon both inside and outside the train
Get the route on your phone
- Download the app “Ride With GPS” (free) if you want to view the route on your phone, or download the GPX file and use it with your preferred navigation tool—e.g., bike computer or smartwatch.
- Open the link below after installing the app
