Fotograf

Sarah Green

The Kanino

Welcome to the land of the rabbits

Endelave is the island of rabbits. Thousands of wild rabbits inhabit the little holiday island in the Kattegat. You have probably heard of the Camino – the famous Spanish pilgrimage route. On Endelave, you can follow the marked hiking trail called the Kanino, which stretches 21 kilometres and takes you past some of the rabbits’ favourite habitats and many of the island’s scenic gems.

Your chances of spotting Endelave’s furry trademark are excellent – both when the trail takes you into the island’s remote corners through protected natural areas and when you stroll through the cosy village.

Hiking along the coast

The majority of the route follows the coastline, offering wide views across the sea to Jutland, Funen, Æbelø, Samsø, Tunø – and on clear days, even Zealand. Along the way, you may encounter a wide range of birds, roe deer, pheasants, wild rabbits, and perhaps even coastal seals.

The terrain varies between asphalt, gravel roads, and beach paths, ranging from fine sand to stony ground. The Kanino trail starts and ends at the harbour, making it easily accessible for those arriving by ferry.

At the start of the trail, as you head up towards the village, you will easily spot the sign. From here, you can choose to walk clockwise or anti-clockwise – just follow the blue signs all the way if you want to complete the full 21-kilometre route.

The trail takes you around the island’s western, south-eastern, and northern tips before returning to the village and harbour. Along the way, you will experience a variety of captivating landscapes. A highlight is the protected natural area of Øvre at the northern end, with its coastal meadows and heather-covered heathlands, giving the area a distinctive and beautiful character.

We recommend a short detour to Øverste Ende, the island’s northernmost point, where a tranquil beach and stunning views over the Kattegat await.

Note: On the northern part of Endelave, you will be walking among grazing animals. You are welcome to admire them, but please do so from a distance and avoid touching the animals.

Is 21 kilometres a bit too much?

Endelave also offers two shorter rabbit routes. You can choose the Mini-Kanino (the Green Rabbit Route) at 12 kilometres, or the 3-kilometre Red Rabbit Route, which takes you on a short walk around the charming village. All you need to do is pick your colour and head off on an adventure. You will find trail maps on the ferry and at selected locations around the island – and you can also view the routes on the digital map above.

Download the digital leaflet

Follow this link to download a digital leaflet about the Kanino with a map, information and inspiration for the routes and experiences on Endelave. You can pick up the physical leaflet on the ferry and several places on Endelave.

Day trip or overnight stay?

To get to Endelave, you need to take the Endelave Ferry from Snaptun on the mainland.

The ferry journey takes about an hour and runs several times a day. It is possible to complete the 21-kilometre route in a day and catch the ferry back but if you would like to enjoy the island’s atmosphere at a more relaxed pace, consider staying overnight.

You could stay at the inn, the campsite, or one of the many private accommodations. That way, you will have time for hiking, beach fun, and delicious meals in the village.

Can you cycle the Kanino trail?

Endelave is ideal for cycling with its flat terrain and low traffic – but you cannot follow the entire Kanino trail by bike, as parts of the route run along the beach.

However, you can cycle the Mini-Kanino and enjoy a 12-kilometre loop by following the green signs. You can rent a bike at the harbour shortly after arrival, or bring your own on the ferry.