Born and raised in Aarhus, The Infinite Bridge in Aarhus is one of my personal favourites. Read this article to discover why... Unsure what to see in the city of smiles overall? Find inspiration about what to do in Aarhus here.
What is the story behind The Infinite Bridge?
The Infinite Bridge, or "Den Uendelige Bro," is a beloved landmark in Aarhus. Designed by local architects Niels Povlsgaard and Johan Gjøde, it was first introduced during the Sculpture by the Sea exhibition in 2015. Initially meant to be a temporary installation, the bridge's popularity led to its annual reconstruction from April to October. The unique structure reconnects with the historical Varna Pavilion.
How is The Infinite Bridge used today?
Today, The Infinite Bridge is both a functional pier and a piece of public art. Its circular design, with a diameter of 60 meters, allows visitors to walk in an endless loop, enjoying views of Aarhus Bay, the beach, and the surrounding forest. Coming from Aarhus myself, I often go here with my family when I'm back home. It's a great place to enjoy the forests and water that is so close to the sea. When the weather is nice, it's also a great spot for swimming and sunbathing!
Who created The Infinite Bridge?
The innovative design of The Infinite Bridge was brought to life by Danish architects Niels Povlsgaard and Johan Gjøde. Their goal was to blend art with architecture, creating a structure that invites people to interact with the landscape in a reflective way. The circular shape and its positioning, partly on the beach and partly in the sea, make this a great place for exactly that.
How can you get to The Infinite Bridge?
The Infinite Bridge is located at Ballehage Beach near the Varna Palace, easily accessible by car or bicycle – and very close to Dyrehaven, a public park where deer roam free. I often cycle there from the city center, enjoying the scenic route through Marselisborg Forests. There's ample parking nearby, making it a convenient destination for both locals and visitors. For those using public transport, busses stop right at the Varna mansion, just a short walk from the bridge.
What can you do at The Infinite Bridge?
Visiting The Infinite Bridge can be a change to:
- Walk and Enjoy the Views: The circular walk offers panoramic views of Aarhus Bay, the beach, and the forest.
- Swim and Sunbathe: The clean waters of the bay are perfect for a swim. I've taken many dips here, and the beach is great for sunbathing too. At Ballehage close by there are also dressing rooms.
- Picnic and Relax: The grassy area near the Varna Palace is perfect for a picnic.
- Visit Varna Palace: After exploring the bridge, you can visit the historic Varna Palace. The palace has a restaurant that offers brunch and other meals. A friend of mine even had their wedding here, with the bridge providing a stunning backdrop for their photos 🤩
- Photography and Social Media: The unique design and setting make it a popular spot for photography. Some of the photos in this article might inspire you!
Fun Facts about The Infinite Bridge:
- Seasonal Installation: The bridge is set up each year in April and taken down in October, with divers removing the timbers one by one and storing them for the winter.
- Wedding Venue: The bridge is a popular spot for weddings. The Municipality of Aarhus offers wedding ceremonies on the bridge, providing a unique and picturesque setting.
- Architectural Details: The bridge is made up of 60 large identical wooden sections. The sections are assembled on-site at the beach.
- Historical Connection: The bridge reestablishes the connection to a historic pier where people used to arrive by steamboats to visit the Varna Pavilion
When is the best time to visit The Infinite Bridge?
The best time to visit The Infinite Bridge is of course when it's there – the bridge is set up April and taken down in October. During these months, the bridge is accessible around the clock, allowing visitors to experience it at different times of the day. I particularly enjoy early mornings or evenings (also because less people are there). From the bridge, you'll be able to see a beautiful sunset as well as enjoy the break of day from the East over the water!
Should you visit the Infinite Bridge?
The Infinite Bridge in Aarhus is a subtly charming destination that blends Danish design with the natural beauty of the coast. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the bridge offers a serene experience that invites you to walk, relax, and connect with both nature and history. If that sounds like something for you, I encourage you to take a stroll on this gentle loop and see where it leads you.