Fishingboats on the beaches of North Jutland

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An iconic coastal scene of Denmark

In September we were in North Jutland. It was the same trip as our walk to Bulbjerg Knude, which I wrote about last week: a week full of quiet landscapes, space, and the kind of light that is constantly changing. The coast of North Jutland has its own atmosphere – rugged, calm and always in motion. Denmark feels like home. Not surprising, as I’ve been there many times. In the past for work, now for relaxation and the occasional week of fresh air and photography.

We stayed in a holiday home close to Slettestrand – the perfect base to explore the region. Early in the morning we could simply walk into the dunes or head towards the beach for sunrise. And those early hours always deliver beautiful images. It’s my favourite time of day: everything is still quiet and slowly waking up.

Why are the boats on the beach?

Along the north coast of Jutland in Denmark you’ll find several locations where fishing boats lie directly on the beach. It creates a unique coastal scene. There are no harbours where the boats can moor, so they are launched straight from the sand and pulled back up after a day of fishing. They’ve been doing it this way for generations.

The reason is both practical and traditional. The coastline of North Jutland consists of wide sandy beaches without natural harbours. In the past, this was simply the only way to fish: the boats were hauled onto the beach at high tide using winches and tractors. And because this method has become part of the local identity, it is still done the same way today. It may also have become something of an attraction for visitors.

This creates a beautiful, almost timeless sight: sturdy boats in blue-white or red-white colours, tilted slightly in the sand, ready for another day at sea. For a photographer, it’s a feast: shapes, lines, textures and that ever-changing coastal light.

Slettestrand – sunrise by the sea

One of the mornings the alarm went off early. I arrived on the beach well before sunrise, just in time to see the first light appear above the horizon. In that soft light the fishing boats looked beautiful – still, solid and anchored in the sand. Sunrise always has something magical. It creates an enormous sense of calm.

The beauty of Slettestrand is that the light keeps changing: cool blue before sunrise, then warm daylight and later softer, diffused light through mist or clouds. The coast remains fascinating no matter how often you visit. The position of the boats is perfect as well – the rising light falls beautifully on their sides and paints the sky in soft colours.

*Sunrise at Slettestrand – soft colours over the sea and sand*

Thorup Strand – fishing life under a threatening sky

The images I made at Thorup Strand were completely different. We were out on a walk nearby when I saw a massive rain shower approaching. We picked up the pace to take shelter near the beach where the boats lie and where a few buildings offer cover.

I quickly chose a spot and set up my camera. The sky darkened, a rain front hovered above the sea and the light turned heavy and dramatic. In those conditions the boats take on a different character: stronger, rougher, almost heroic against the weather.

*Thorup Strand – the fishing boats shelter from the passing rainstorm*

Thorup Strand is also an active fishing village. You’ll see boats coming and going, tractors pulling them onto the beach and fishermen working on nets and gear. It feels authentic and unpolished – exactly the atmosphere that makes this place so special. There’s even a small restaurant by the beach where you can enjoy a good seafood meal.

Walking along beach and dunes

The areas around both locations offer beautiful walking opportunities. High dunes, quiet paths, low heathland and wide beaches make this a wonderful place to wander for hours. At Slettestrand we did a stunning hike combining beach, forest and dunes – exactly the kind of variation this region is known for.

Best time to visit

Just like at Bulbjerg, we found September ideal. The light is softer, the beaches are quieter and the weather can shift quickly – which is perfect for coastal photography. A pastel sunrise or a dramatic storm cloud over the sea: both are characteristic of this region. And strong coastal winds always create beautiful scenes.

In conclusion

Slettestrand and Thorup Strand are, for me, among the most beautiful coastal places in Denmark. Not because of grand vistas or famous landmarks, but because of their simplicity: boats in the sand, light that constantly changes, a coastline that feels alive. It’s a place you want to return to – again and again, in every season.

Want to read more about North Jutland? Take a look at my stories about Bulbjerg Knude or Rubjerg Knude, or browse my photobook Denmark – Land of the Sea. Also available: fine art prints such as Resting – Fishing boats on the beach, Thorup Strand.