Stege Town

Stege is the largest town on the island of Møn in south-eastern Denmark and a delightful base for exploring the island, with a well-preserved medieval core and a population of a few thousand. Once a prosperous herring-fishing port, it now leans on tourism, and its compact old streets reward a leisurely wander. The town's landmark is the Mølleporten (Mill Gate), a 15th-century town gate that is the oldest of its kind in Denmark and a striking survivor of Stege's medieval fortifications. The town received its charter as a merchant town in 1268 under Eric V, though fortifications had protected the fishing community as early as the 12th century. Today the little lanes are full of antique shops, galleries and cafes, while the Empiregaarden houses a local history museum and Stege Church holds noteworthy frescoes. The market square, ringed by old merchant houses, is a natural gathering point, and the town sits at the mouth of Stege Nor, a lake that connects directly to the sea. Entry to the town is free, and it is enjoyable year-round, with Saturdays especially lively thanks to the market. It makes an easy stop on the way to Møns Klint or Liselund, both close by. Stege is reached by bus from Vordingborg or Køge, and is about an hour and a half by car from Copenhagen. While you are here, try a locally brewed Møn beer in one of the town's small pubs and soak up the unhurried island atmosphere before heading out to the cliffs and countryside beyond.