Geopark Visitor Center

VISITOR CENTER FOR UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK

Øhavsmuseet is proud of hosting the visitor center for the newly appointed UNESCO Global Geopark South Funen Archipelago within the Faaborg-Midtfyn municipality. The visitor center tells the story of the dramatic sea level rise at the end of the last Ice Age. The ice created a unique landscape that has defined the area’s nature and culture for 10,000 years.

The museum’s own exhibition “Discover Yourself” is also a tribute to man’s relationship with nature throughout history – from the Stone Age to the present day. With sounds, lighting and exciting stories, you will be guided through 5 landscapes in time, experiencing how man has always been influenced by nature. Feel the magic of nature with alle your senses, try the small test stations and discover that you are part of something bigger.

 

WHAT DEFINES A GEOPARK?

A geopark is an area where the special geological design of the landscape is of decisive importance for the life around it. The Geopark focuses on the connection between Earth and man. It is about understanding the connection between the landscape-created nature and the local culture, which has only been made possible by these specific conditions.

In spring 2024, the South Funen Archipelago Geopark was designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark. A UNESCO Global Geopark translates a.o.t. the UN’s 17 Global Goals into local development and promotes understanding of how people’s living conditions are determined by nature.

 

WHERE IS IT LOCATED?

The South Funen Archipelago Geopark extends over a large area of ​​both land and water, which includes many local stories and experiences. Therefore, it is not a park with an entrance. The South Funen Archipelago stretches from Helnæs in the West to the East Coast of Langeland, bounded by Ærø in the South and the South Funen Coast in the North. The mainland area of Faaborg-Midtfyn and Svendborg municipalities is also part of the geopark.

 

A LONG HISTORY CUT SHORT

Since the Middle Ages, South Funen and the South Funen Archipelago have been known as a special, lovely corner of the Danish kingdom. It was here that kings, nobility, artists and thinkers went to have their free space. Throughout history, the area has been famous for its beautiful landscapes, lush nature and some of the world’s best waters for sailors.

At the same time, there are as many as 45 locations in the area where the geology is particularly interesting. Three of them to such an extent that they have been designated as international “Geosites”, namely Klintholm Kalkgrave, Ristinge Klint and the entire South Funen Archipelago. As many as 55 islands and islets jut up above the flooded Ice Age landscape, and below water, there are still traces of forests and Stone Age settlements.

 

EXPLORE THE GEOPARK

  • Learn more about the geopark’s special geology, nature and cultural history. You can find inspiration for exploring the area on your own here.
  • The nature of South Funen offers a lot of unique ​​experiences. Regardless of the season, you can look forward to lots of good times. Either alone or with family and friends. Plan your trip here.
  • The Geopark contains many different activities for both children and adults. By land, by water, by bike and on horseback. Here you will find suggestions for some of the best experiences.