Europe’s Best-Kept Secret? This Baltic Island Has Beautiful Beaches, White Cliffs and Forest Trails

A hidden treasure in Denmark, Møn Island is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Tucked into the Baltic Sea, about 81 miles south of Copenhagen, it rests at the southeastern tip of Zealand. The Ulv Strait separates it from the mainland, but thanks to the Queen Alexandrine Bridge, it’s easy to reach.

Møn is famous for its dramatic contrasts. Here you’ll find chalk-white cliffs, sandy beaches, and dense forests, all in one compact island. It’s paradise for nature lovers looking for peace and outdoor adventure. History buffs won’t be disappointed either—Møn is rich with medieval landmarks.

Get a Glimpse of Ancient History

The island’s chalk cliffs and its medieval culture provide a glimpse of ancient history. The breathtaking Møns Klint is 70 million years old, stretching more than 3.7 miles while soaring over 426 feet as Europe’s highest chalk cliff. Crumbling down to the sea, it results in the surreal turquoise hues of the water below, while a white sandy beach sits at its base.

In Stege, Møns’ main town, one can stroll cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses and admire the 13th-century Stege Church. There are other well-preserved medieval churches here too, including Fanefjord, which contains beautifully restored frescoes. Elmelunde, Møn’s oldest, contains parts dating all the way back to the 12th century. 

Relax and Play at the Beach

The most beautiful beach experience is the stretch below Møns Klint, where you can search for fossils in an incredibly stunning setting, but there are others for relaxing and playing. Hårbølle Beach is peaceful and scenic, with fine, powdery white sands and a picturesque view of islands in the distance. There is plenty of space here and typically, few people, making it ideal for relaxing and picnicking.

Watersports are popular too, made even better with the spectacular backdrop of Møns Klint. Enjoy everything from stand-up paddleboarding to kitesurfing, windsurfing, and traditional surfing. Catching the sunrise from an early morning boat tour on the M/S Seahorse is especially unforgettable, with departures from the pier next to the Seaman Bar, Klap Hesten.

Take a Hike

One of the top hiking trails on the island is Klinteongens Rige. An 8.7-mile loop, it winds through ancient beech forests and features some of the island’s most remarkable sites, including Møns Klint and Liselund Castle.

After Dark

It’s worth spending at least a night here, as Møns Klint is a Dark Sky Park, which means it’s been officially designated as a top spot in Denmark for viewing the night sky. It’s as clear as it gets, making it possible to gaze up at the Milky Way, watch shooting stars, or even spot Saturn.