Par force hunting landscape
In bygone days, this is where the kings did their hunting - but now the area is open for you to explore! Pay a visit to the par force hunting landscape at Stor Dyrehave in Hillerod, at Gribskov and Jægersborg Dyrehave, which was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List in July 2015.
Hunting through Denmark’s history
Much of Denmark’s history is hidden away in North Zealand. Today, you can hunt for a piece of that history in picturesque areas which former kings once used for hunting. Back then they hunted stags. You can still experience plenty of these fine animals at Hillerod, Gribskov and Jægersborg, where par force hunting was commonplace centuries ago. Today, however, it is the sight of these majestic animals, the open landscapes and beautiful hiking tours that you can enjoy when visiting the area. And in fact the experience you enjoy here is considered so exceptional that the area has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Inspired by Versailles
When Christian V decided to set up the par force hunting landscape in North Zealand in the 1680s, there was no doubt he was writing history - both in Denmark and the rest of the world. He took his inspiration from the most impressive royal palace of the time - Versailles in France.
Just like the French Baroque gardens, the area was filled with lush woods in a pattern of stars surrounded by squares.
Par force hunting
While the experience of visiting this beautiful area can be enjoyed by everyone today, par force hunting in ancient times was not for the faint of heart. Riders and hounds hunted a stag until it finally gave up from total exhaustion. The honorable task of killing the beast with swords or spears then went to the king or that day's most distinguished guest.