Disc golfers in western Denmark have been granted a rare exception to use part of a protected forest for their sport, marking an unusual win for recreational access to nature.
Ten-Year Permit for Forest Course
The Disc Golf Vest club in West Jutland has received a ten-year permit from Denmark’s Environmental and Food Appeals Board to continue playing on its course near Videbæk. Part of the course runs through a section of protected forest known as *fredskov*, where most recreational development is normally banned.
Usually, activities within protected forests face strict restrictions. However, the board allowed the club to use the existing fairways, arguing that the area is part of a relatively new forest where ecological sensitivity is still developing. The decision gives members a chance to enjoy disc golf in a natural setting while respecting the country’s forest protection laws, which have been in place for over two centuries.
Balancing Protection and Recreation
According to Danish forest law, only natural materials may be used for permanent installations in *fredskov*. That rule poses challenges for disc golfers, who prefer placing small concrete platforms called tee pads at starting points on each hole. The club says concrete provides better footing, reducing the risk of slipping or injury.
Still, it maintains that the concrete slabs do not harm the environment since they can be removed easily. If necessary, the club claims, reversing the installation only requires manual labor, leaving the forest floor largely undisturbed.
Interestingly, disc golf fits into a broader Danish trend of exercising outdoors instead of inside gyms. Studies have shown that spending time in Danish nature has measurable health benefits compared to typical gym workouts, a fact that makes nature-based sports like disc golf even more appealing.
Hoping for Approval in Momhøje
Disc Golf Vest already operates another, more renowned course in Momhøje Plantation between Skjern and Herning. That course hosts international tournaments and draws visitors from across Europe. While the club has permission to use the forested area there, it has not yet been allowed to install concrete tee pads. The organization has applied for similar approval and awaits a final decision from the same appeals board.
Because of that pending case, the recent permit near Videbæk may set an important precedent. If accepted in Momhøje as well, it could encourage other local clubs to apply for limited licenses to develop minor infrastructure within protected woods.
For players, safety and consistency are priorities. Concrete pads create uniform starting positions, which help maintain course quality and fair play, especially during competitions.
What Counts as Protected Forest?
In Denmark, protected forest areas are safeguarded from logging, clearing, or grazing. Construction requires special approval from the Danish Environmental Protection Agency. About 85 percent of the nation’s forests fall under this designation, highlighting how seriously the country guards its woodland resources.
Despite these restrictions, recreation remains a valuable part of Danish outdoor culture. From hiking to canoeing and from cycling to nature-based exercise, the government aims to balance public enjoyment with conservation. Disc golf, which combines walking, focus, and skill, fits naturally into that model.
Nature Meets Sport
Across Denmark, disc golf courses are quietly expanding in number. Some are built near cities, while others wind through forests, dunes, and open terrain. Even though legal discussions about materials continue, most players prefer wooded landscapes that add both beauty and challenge.
Without a doubt, Denmark’s approach to nature recreation is shaped by compromise. Environmental authorities ensure forests remain protected, while clubs like Disc Golf Vest adapt their designs to leave the smallest possible impact. The result is a growing network of courses where Danes can play, socialize, and stay healthy in green surroundings.
As the board’s recent ruling shows, compromises between conservation and recreation can work when handled with care. For now, the club in Videbæk can celebrate a local victory that keeps discs flying through the trees—legally and responsibly.
Sources and References
The Danish Dream: Danish Nature Workout Proven to Be Healthier Than Gym Workouts
The Danish Dream: Best Gyms in Denmark for Foreigners
DR: Discgolfere i Vestjylland får lov at kaste i skoven
