A Danish writer, Martin A. Hansen developed a thesis stating that:
There has been a trade route, a military route and a pilgrimage route across Zealand, Denmark. Through wetlands, bogs, meadows, fields and forests.
“Not just a wheel track or horse trail, but a wide range of paths with shifts from century to millennium. It is traces of the first mound builders, the masters of dolmens, the passage graves, it is the Stone Age monuments on the valley stretches down toward the river estuaries, it is the elevated Bronze Age mounds, and finally, the Iron Age and Viking Age settlement and burial sites.” 1
1 Lethrica, The Historical Societies in Lejre Municipality, Volume 3, No. 8.
Years ago I decided to examing this 64 km trail. It was a joyful exploration of an area enriched with historical tales and great beauty. The walks became a beautiful journey through time and place. Unforgettable visits to the Vikings’ old port, Vellerup Vig; the hills in Egholm Forest with a view of Dronningedyssen towards Orø; crossing through Kyndeløse Nordmark with pleasant farmers and happy cows. Through the atmospheric Ejby Ådal and further up to Dyrehaven with a view of Tempelkrog. Continuing through Rye with its many well mounds. Out through Hestehaven and a detour down to the beautiful Aastrup and Elverdamsåen. Past the always full church in Kirke Såby. Over Roskilde Bakke and Kirkebakke to Helligrende and on to Abbetved, where I can still hear the call of the crows in the crisp autumn air. The thunderstorm raged as I walked along the beautiful path towards Sagnlandet Lejre. I could make out the Sacrifice Marsh between the trees, and the thunderstorm added to the scenery. The beautiful Knapsø with the grey-throated loons which emit strange cries. Through Herthadalen, where the first constitutional meeting was held on the 5th anniversary in 1854. Further through the historic Gl. Lejre towards Ramsødalen.
Oh!! Do you remember the time Joe came rushing into the cabin shouting that some friends had climbed the tallest tree they could find. Or the biggest daredevils were covered in mud because they could easily manage to jump over the stream. Yes or do you remember… That’s how they can go on for hours when they talk about Gilwellhytten. They are former Scouts. I have no doubts when I hear them: Gilwellhytten embraces children and scout leaders, and gives them the best setting for good experiences.
In the splendid days of this spring I remembered all the talk about Gilwellhytten. We walked in the forest of Tokkekøb, and came to the scout cabin, which is perfectly situated on a large plot of land. In no time you are down by streams, lakes and lovely forest.
Gilwellhytten, has a colorful history since its construction in 1934. It has served as a gathering place for scouts, a hiding place during the occupation and a center for scout activities and training throughout the years. Its importance in promoting camaraderie, character development and resilience among Scouts in Denmark is still undeniable.
During the occupation of Denmark in the Second World War, Gilwellhytten gained even greater importance as a hiding place and a base for resistance activities against the German occupation.
It became a haven for those seeking refuge from the oppressors. The cabin’s strategic location and the scouts’ resilience contributed significantly to their efforts in these challenging times.
After the war, Gilwell Hytten continued its role as a place for scouting activities and character development.
The sluice house, the little yellow house, now a scout cabin.
It is an integral part of the Scouting community, fostering a sense of camaraderie, and providing a platform for Scouts to learn important life skills, develop leadership skills and appreciate nature.
Today, Gilwell Hytte stands as a testament to the enduring values of Scouting. It continues to inspire and motivate Scouts of all ages, providing them with a welcoming environment to learn, grow and contribute to society. The lodge continues to be an important resource for Scout leaders and participants, offering a variety of programs, training courses and events that uphold the Scout tradition.
The forest was quiet. But on a bridge overlooking the calm lake sat a young man, completely absorbed in his own thoughts, or perhaps no thoughts at all. Because isn’t that what nature can do? Reset your mind and recover from the constant flow of information.
There are no people on the bridge today, but nature does not deny itself. Every step on the path is a joy. The leaves whisper in the wind, and the small waves of the lake respond.
HANNA'S WALK 
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