A proposed bridge connecting the Danish islands of Als and Funen could include the world’s longest bicycle bridge, spanning nearly 11 kilometers across open water. While the idea is hailed as a potential tourism boom, experts are divided on its true value.
Plans for a Landmark Connection
The vision of a permanent link between the southern Danish island of Als and the larger island of Funen has long been under discussion. For now, travelers can only cross this segment of the Little Belt Strait by ferry or personal watercraft. However, since the Danish Ministry of Transport commissioned a feasibility study in 2021, progress has been made toward realizing a fixed bridge connection.
Most recently, interest has grown around incorporating a bicycle lane as part of the design, something that could make the bridge the longest of its kind in the world. The Danish Cyclists’ Federation and advocacy group AlsFynForbindelsen have been front-runners in promoting this vision, arguing that safe and scenic access for cyclists should be an essential component of any future infrastructure project between the islands.
The Case for a Cycling Attraction
Supporters of the bicycle bridge concept emphasize its potential as a global tourist draw. A bridge with dedicated cycling infrastructure and scenic viewpoints could attract both international visitors and Danes, particularly in a country where biking is a deeply rooted cultural tradition.
Southern Funen and Als are already popular among German tourists and Danish couples looking for outdoor getaways. According to the consulting firm COWI, which prepared a 2021 analysis of the cycling proposal, including rest areas and viewing platforms along the route could significantly increase tourism appeal and safety.
If the project moves forward, the proposed bridge would stretch approximately 11 kilometers (about 6.8 miles), far surpassing Denmark’s current longest cycling bridge planned in Copenhagen, which is expected to be only 460 meters (1,509 feet) long. At such a length, the Als-Funen bridge would take the global record and become a prominent feature on Denmark’s cycling tourism map.
Expert Opinions Remain Divided
Despite the enthusiastic suggestions by cycling advocates, tourism researchers caution against overestimating the draw of such a structure. While a long cycling bridge could indeed become a hallmark feature, there’s skepticism over whether it would generate the kind of large-scale international tourism budget supporters hope for.
Experts argue that unless the infrastructure is integrated into a broader tourism and transportation strategy that serves both locals and visitors, the project could struggle to deliver long-term value. They also note that invoking tourism as a supporting argument in expensive infrastructure projects is a frequent tactic, often added at later stages to gain broader approval.
Economic and Environmental Considerations
From a financial standpoint, the costs are considerable. The Danish Ministry of Transport estimates the cost of constructing a car bridge between Als and Funen at 22.2 billion Danish kroner, roughly $3.2 billion. Meanwhile, the proposed bike bridge with scenic features would add another 900 million kroner, approximately $132 million, to the project’s total cost.
There are also concerns from local residents and environmental groups. The route would likely pass through a Natura 2000 conservation area, which mandates strict environmental protection for wildlife and habitats. Noise pollution, landscape disruption, and loss of maritime character have all been cited as challenges.
Project Status and Funding Gaps
While the Danish government allocated funds in its 2035 Infrastructure Plan for initial feasibility studies, no money has yet been earmarked for environmental impact assessments or actual construction. In its latest communication, the Transport Ministry confirmed that additional planning and funding are required before any building can begin.
Local groups such as AlsFynForbindelsen and national cycling organizations continue to advocate for the inclusion of the bike path in any future plans. They argue that doing so would enhance the project’s usability, sustainability, and public value.
As of now, Denmark’s longest cycling bridge may still be a vision surrounded by water and technical drawings, but with broader support, it could evolve into a defining destination for the country’s cycling community.
