Over a thousand years ago, Jelling was the cradle of Denmark’s royal legacy. Here, Viking King Gorm the Old and his son, Harald Bluetooth, left their mark—massive runestones proclaiming Denmark’s unification and its turn to Christianity. The Jelling Stones still stand today, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reminding us of a time when this land was alive with change, connection, and discovery.

Fast forward to February 23, 2025—on the very grounds where history was shaped, a different kind of gathering took place. A diverse group of locals and expats came together, not to wage wars or carve legacies in stone, but to embrace nature, engage in meaningful conversations, and find new friendships. The Jelling Forest Walk was more than just a hike; it was a step toward community, belonging, and shared experiences in the heart of Denmark’s most historic landscape.

Event Highlights: A Journey of Connection and Reflection

The event kicked off at the parking area near Jelling Naturlegeplads, where attendees were greeted by Jesper Simonsen, founder and CEO of LifeBonder. After a warm welcome, the group embarked on their journey into Jelling Skov, an enchanting forest near the city of Vejle known for its serene hiking trails.

The walk was structured in phases:

  • Silent Walk – The first ten minutes were dedicated to silence, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the sounds and sensations of nature. It was a moment of mindfulness, helping attendees appreciate their surroundings without distractions.
  • Walk & Talk – After the silent stretch, participants paired up and were given conversation prompts. Though guidance was provided, most found that conversations flowed naturally, breaking barriers between strangers.
  • Community Gathering – The hike concluded at the Forest Playground, where a cozy fire awaited. Over hot coffee, tea, and cocoa, attendees shared stories, laughter, and reflections on the walk, embracing the Danish tradition of “hygge.”

Impact & Engagement: Bringing People Together

The event saw an enthusiastic turnout, with a mix of expats and native Danes coming together for this unique experience. Some attendees traveled from afar to join, demonstrating the strong appeal of meaningful, real-world connections.

By the Numbers:

📍 Location: Jelling Skov, near Vejle
👥 Participants: A diverse group of locals and expats
🕒 Duration: Approx. 2.5 hours
☕ Community Time: 1 hour of social bonding around a fire
🌱 Engagement: Many attendees expressed interest in joining future hikes

One of the most significant pieces of feedback came from a participant who noted that more information about LifeBonder should be available on Vejle Kommune’s homepage—a testament to the growing curiosity and demand for initiatives that foster in-person connections.

Lessons Learned & Takeaways

From an organizer’s perspective, the Jelling Forest Walk was a success, but it also provided valuable insights for future events:

✅ Nature brings people together – The combination of walking, talking, and shared experiences created an environment where connections formed naturally.
✅ Physical challenge varies – A few attendees found the hike slightly challenging, reminding us to ensure accessibility for all fitness levels.
✅ People crave real interactions – The overwhelming response showed that many seek genuine, in-person connections outside of digital spaces.

Looking Ahead: Join Us for the Next Nature Walk!

Building on the success of this event, we’re excited to announce our next adventure:

🌿 Nature Walk in Sønderskoven
📅 Date: March 9, 2025
📍 Location: Sønderskoven
🔗 Register here:
Danish | English

At LifeBonder, we believe in bringing people together beyond screens. Events like these embody our mission to combat loneliness and foster authentic relationships through real-life interactions.

Will you join us for our next nature walk? Let us know in the comments! 🌿✨