Visit the Area – The Western Limfjord
Hanklit and Knudeklint are exceptional geological sites, renowned for their extraordinary wealth of exceptionally well-preserved fossils. More than 700 species of prehistoric organisms – including fish, birds, insects and plants – have been discovered in the diatomite (moler) deposits.
These remarkable cliffs preserve species that emerged and lived shortly after Earth's fifth and most recent mass extinction – the event that wiped out the dinosaurs. Together, Hanklit and Knudeklint offer a unique window into one of the most significant turning points in the history of life.
They form a natural archive that reveals extraordinary details about how life recovered and evolved after the mass extinction. The cliffs provide invaluable scientific insight into a crucial stage in evolution, particularly the ancestors of many modern fish, plants and animals.
Visit Hanklit
Located on the island of Mors, Hanklit is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site The Western Limfjord.
Along the northern coast of Mors, the striking moler cliffs rise dramatically above the Limfjord. The unique deposits of diatomite are still mined today and processed into high-performance insulation, fireproofing materials and cat litter, which are exported worldwide.
Hanklit is the area's most iconic cliff. Standing 61 metres high, its distinctive dark layers of volcanic ash reveal a dramatic geological story stretching back more than 55 million years. Fossilised plants and animals are still regularly discovered here by both scientists and amateur fossil hunters.
Many of these fascinating finds are displayed at the nearby Fossil and Moler Museum.
Every year, thousands of visitors come to experience the spectacular scenery and geological significance of Hanklit.
Hanklit
Hanklit - UNESCO World Heritage
Along the coastline of northern Mors, the characteristic moler cliffs rise above the Limfjord. The unique diatomite deposits are processed into high-performance insulation materials, fireproofing products and cat litter, and exported around the world.
Parking
Parking for both cars and coaches is available close to Hanklit.
Address: Hanklitvej 23, 7900 Nykøbing Mors.
Hiking route at Hanklit
While you're visiting Hanklit, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding landscape on a scenic 3 km walking route.
The trail begins at Hanklit and follows the shoreline and quiet country roads through the beautiful coastal scenery.
Visit Knudeklint
Knudeklint, located on the island of Fur, is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can quite literally touch the traces of a gigantic volcanic event that not only marks the birth of North Atlantic volcanism but also the beginning of the modern world that emerged after the extinction of the dinosaurs.
By gently running your fingers across the cliff face, you can travel through 1.5 million years of Earth's history in just 50 metres. Many of the remarkable fossil discoveries from the area are on display at the nearby Fur Museum.
Knudeklint
Fur Ferry
To reach Fur, you'll need to take the ferry – but don't worry, the crossing takes just five minutes.
You can conveniently park your car on the Salling side and board the free Fur Shuttle Bus, which circles the island every hour during the summer season.
You can find the ferry timetable via the link below.
Knudeklint - UNESCO World Heritage
The layers of diatomite (moler) contain exceptional fossils dating back 55 million years, when these unique deposits were formed. Fossils range from metre-long tarpons to microscopic fish larvae, as well as snails, mussels, shrimps, crabs, eels and mackerel.
Hop On – Hop Off the Fur Shuttle Bus – Free of Charge
Explore Fur with ease during the summer by using the free Fur Shuttle Bus, connecting four of the island's main attractions.
The bus runs more times a day, allowing you to hop on and off whenever you like – completely free.
Parking
Parking is available at the car park before you reach Fur Bryghus and at the P5 parking area before Fur Camping.
Address – Fur Camping
Råkildevej 7A
7884 Fur
Address – Parking before Fur Bryghus
Knudevej 1A
7884 Fur
Hiking route near Knudeklinten
Discover the spectacular landscape around Knudeklint on this scenic 5.5 km hiking trail.
The route passes both Lille Knudshoved and Store Knudshoved, home to Fur's most impressive diatomite cliffs.
Did you know this?
Diatomite and Volcanic Ash
The diatomite (moler) was formed over several million years, beginning around 55 million years ago.
At that time, the entire area was covered by sea. Layers of microscopic algae mixed with fine clay gradually accumulated on the seabed, eventually forming deposits up to 60 metres thick. This white sediment is what we know today as moler, or diatomite.
A Landscape Shaped by Ice
The landscape we see today was sculpted during the last Ice Age, which ended around 20,000 years ago.
At Knudeklint, a 600-metre-long cliff exposure clearly reveals the many layers of diatomite deposited over millions of years.
Extraordinary Fossils
The diatomite deposits preserve an outstanding collection of fossils dating back 55 million years.
The fossil record includes everything from metre-long tarpons to microscopic fish larvae, together with snails, mussels, shrimps, crabs, eels and mackerel.
Fossil Hunting by the Limfjord
Step back in time along the Limfjord, where dramatic volcanic landscapes and unique diatomite (moler) cliffs reveal a fascinating prehistoric world. Discover fossils preserved in volcanic ash layers dating back 55 million years, and experience one of Denmark's most remarkable geological landscapes.
Here you'll find a selection of activities related to the two UNESCO World Heritage cliffs, Hanklit and Knudeklint. Be sure to visit Fur Museum on Fur and the Museum of Fossils and Moler on Mors, both of which regularly offer guided tours to these extraordinary sites.
Get more information here
FAQ
Where can I park at Hanklit?
Free parking is available at Hanklit, just a short walk from the main viewpoint. Information boards about the area are located in the parking area.
Where can I park at Knudeklint?
Free parking is available at Fur Bryghus, which serves as the natural starting point for your visit. From here, it is a short walk to Knudeklint and its architect-designed viewpoints overlooking the moler cliffs and the Limfjord.
Are the sites accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Please note that parts of both sites consist of grass, gravel paths, steps, and uneven terrain. As a result, access may be challenging for wheelchair users, visitors using walkers, or those with limited mobility.
Is there an entrance fee?
No. Access to the outdoor UNESCO World Heritage sites is free of charge. Admission fees may apply for museums, exhibitions, or special events in the area.
How much time should I allow for my visit?
Most visitors spend between one and two hours at each site.
Are the sites suitable for children?
Yes. Both locations are ideal for families interested in fossils, nature, and geological heritage. Children can explore the landscape, admire the spectacular cliffs, and learn about the area's ancient history.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas but must be kept on a leash to protect nature, the World Heritage site, and other visitors.
Are there toilets on site?
There are no public toilets at Hanklit or Knudeklint.
Can I buy food or drinks nearby?
There are no cafés or restaurants directly at the cliffs, but several dining options are available nearby. You are also welcome to bring your own picnic.
What should I wear?
We recommend sturdy footwear, as many of the paths are grass or gravel. The weather can change quickly, so bringing a jacket or rainwear is advisable.
Are the World Heritage sites open all year?
Yes. The outdoor areas are open throughout the year. Please be aware that paths may become slippery or muddy during periods of rain, frost, or snow.
Can I move rocks or take fossils home?
No. It is not permitted to dig into or damage the moler cliffs or move rocks embedded in the cliff face. The cliffs are a protected geological treasure, and digging or chiselling into the exposed formations is strictly prohibited.
However, you are welcome to collect fossils found loose on the beach and to split pieces of moler or stones that have naturally fallen from the cliffs.