Mønsted Limestone Mines near Viborg

Distance: 15.37 Km

 | +45 86 64 60 11 |  info@monsted-kalkgruber.dk |  www.monsted-kalkgruber.dk | 
Close to Viborg you will find Mønsted Kalkgruber, the world's largest limestone mines, where you can explore a fascinating underground world. Here you will get a unique insight into the history of hardy men and women who have carved kilometer-long passages by hand over the centuries.

Experience the mines' geology, industrial history, natural beauty and learn about the many bats that overwinter in the deep mine shafts.

Whether you are into history, nature or adventure, a visit to Mønsted Kalkgruber is unforgettable for the whole family, where you can experience together a completely unique combination of outstanding nature, exciting stories about people, industrial history and bats.

Experiences underground

Take an adventure through a labyrinth of illuminated mine shafts, where trickling streams and beautiful underground lakes create a magical atmosphere. There are around 4 km of tunnel systems open to visitors, of which around 2 km are illuminated.

Experiences above ground

Mønsted Kalkgruber is more than just the underground passages. Above ground you can visit the old lime works, where lime was burned until 1980. Today the building functions as a museum, and here you can gain an insight into a bygone era with hard work, hot ovens, dust and historical tales of life in the lime industry.

The area is part of NATURA 2000, a protected nature reserve. Take a hike on the nature trail, where you can experience impressive sinkholes, limestone overburden and steep slopes. From here, enjoy the view of the blue-green lake, which was once an open limestone quarry.

Café Kridthuset

After your tour of the mines, you can take a break in the cozy Café Kridthuset. Here you can satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst with a selection of delicious dishes and refreshments. The café is open during holidays and seasonally, so check the opening hours before your visit.

You can see opening hours and the menu here.

The playground - the 5 bats

Next to the café you will find the Bat Playground, where children can play and climb on figures of the five bat species that overwinter in the caves:

  • Pond bat
  • Water bat
  • Fringe bat
  • Long-eared bat
  • Brandt's bat

Let the children find their favorite bat, where they can play through the fascinating world of bats!

See the Bat Playground here.

Dress warmly

All year round it is 'only' 8 degrees in the limestone pits, so please wear a warm sweater.

Smoking only allowed in marked areas.

The museum is closed for the winter from November 1, 2025 to March 27, 2026. May 30 is closed due to the Limestone Run.

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Updated by: VisitAarhus | web@visitaarhus.com
Man stands in Mønsted Kalkgruber Photographer: Mads Gregersen Copyright: Mads Gregersen
Lake at Mønsted Limestone Quarries Photographer: Mønsted Kalkgruber
Playground at Mønsted Kalkgruber Photographer: Francesca Dolnier
Mønsted Kalkgruber Photographer: Francesca Dolnier
Mønsted Kalkgruber Photographer: Mønsted Kalkgruber Copyright: Mønsted Kalkgruber
Wintering Bats in Mønsted Lime pits Photographer: Florian Gloza-Rausch Copyright: Florian Gloza-Rausch