Audax Randonneuring in Denmark - the first 200 km of the year

 Audax Randonneuring in Denmark - the first 200 km of the year

Denmark has long been known for its cycle‑friendly policies—an approach rooted in the country’s early efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels after the first oil crises. Looking at the situation today, it’s clear that this was a remarkably forward‑thinking decision. A short trip to the North European nation to explore its cycling routes felt fitting, especially since it is easily reached from Germany by train, bus, or ferry, all of which accommodate bicycles well.

After a mist‑shrouded sea crossing, I spent the night in Copenhagen, a city currently blanketed with election billboards. Most featured little more than a portrait of the local candidate and, occasionally, a succinct slogan. From the Danish capital, I boarded an exceptionally spacious commuter train to nearby Hillerød, where the lively Audax Randonneurs Denmark community was gathering for its first 200‑kilometre ride of the year. With 2027’s Paris–Brest–Paris qualification season underway, around 27 riders lined up at the start—most of them members of Audax Randonneurs Danemark, easily spotted in their Dannebrog‑themed jerseys.

With darkness, around 5 degrees andiIn a Nordie country, a coffee was a must before we set off into the misty March weather, unfortunately with an obscured view of the majestic Frederiksborg Castle. The route turned north toward the sea—also mostly hidden behind the same mist. Eventually, a rising wind began to clear the air. In Denmark, wind is either your greatest ally or your fiercest opponent, which is why cyclists like to say that “the wind is the mountains of Denmark.” True mountains don’t exist here, but the course still offered plenty of small, rolling hills.

At Roskilde Fjord

Crossing the Roskilde Fjord westward meant facing the wind head‑on for a while. The ride continued along quiet rural roads lined with thousands of election posters, many of them focused on debates around pig farming and water quality.

The westernmost checkpoint and supply stop, Tølløse, also marked the turning point—finally putting the headwind behind us on the way toward Roskilde. I paused briefly there to see the Viking ship replica, something I had missed during my last visit many years ago for the Roskilde Festival. The return leg was gentler, though the season guaranteed that darkness would eventually catch up with us.

Now I had a 200‑kilometre brevet completed in Denmark as well. Also, now I am eligible to register for next year’s Paris–Brest–Paris 1200‑kilometre ride. But that is much longer than everything I have done and secretly, I almost hope I won’t get a spot.