I just returned from a trip that changed how I look at travel with my dog. Rømø is a tiny island in the North Sea on the west coast of Denmark. It is a place of massive horizons and salt air. The island connects to the mainland by a long road called the Rømødamm. I felt a sense of peace as soon as I drove over that water. My dog sat in the backseat with his nose pressed against the glass. He knew we were somewhere special. This island is part of the Wadden Sea National Park. It is a place where nature rules. You can find massive beaches, quiet pine forests, and a very slow pace of life. It is the perfect spot for mature travelers who want to explore with their best four-legged friend.
The air here smells like salt and pine needles. It is fresh. It is clean. Perfect. I want to share everything I learned about this island so you can plan your own trip in 2026. You will find that Denmark is very welcoming to pets. In fact, hundreds of thousands of people bring their dogs here every single year. I saw dogs of all sizes enjoying the dunes and the waves. Rømø is truly a pet paradise.
Pet Travel Local Laws and Etiquette in Rømø
I had to do a lot of homework before I left. Denmark has very specific rules to keep everyone safe. You must know about the 13 prohibited dog breeds. The law is very strict about this. If you own a Pit Bull Terrier, Tosa Inu, American Staffordshire Terrier, or an American Bulldog, you cannot bring them into the country. This also applies to Brazilian Mastiffs, Dogo Argentinos, Boerboels, Kangals, and several types of Ovtcharkas. Even Tornjaks and Sarplaninacs are on the list. If your dog is a mix, you must be able to prove it is not one of these breeds. It is a serious matter.
Your dog must also have a microchip. This chip must be ISO-compliant. Usually, these numbers are 15 digits long. I made sure my vet scanned the chip before giving any shots. This is a big deal in the European Union. Your pet also needs an EU pet passport or a valid health certificate. My dog needed his rabies vaccination at least 21 days before we arrived. For dogs from the United States, a primary shot is only good for one year. Do not forget to bring all your paperwork.
Local etiquette is all about respect. I always kept my dog on a lead in towns and holiday home areas. Between April 1st and September 30th, the law says dogs must be on a leash on all beaches. If you break this rule, you might pay a fine of 2,000 kroner, which is about 300 USD. I found that most people are very happy to see a well-behaved dog. Just remember to always carry a bag. Pick up after your pet every single time. It keeps the island beautiful for everyone.
Where to Stay with Your Dog in Rømø
I found so many great places to sleep. There are over 149 pet-friendly properties on the island. One of my favorite spots was Enjoy Resorts Rømø in Rømø Kirkeby. They allow two pets of any size in their holiday homes. I had to pay an extra fee of DKK 350 per pet, per stay. The apartments there are modern and have fully equipped kitchens. I even had a fireplace. It was so cozy after a long walk. The resort has a wellness center and a golf course, but dogs stay in the houses while you use those.
Another fantastic option is the Hotel Kommandørgården. This place is a mix of a hotel, a campsite, and holiday homes. They love dogs here. They even have a small agility course and a dog forest right on their land. I felt very welcome. If you prefer a more private stay, check out Esmark. They have many comfortable holiday homes close to the beach. Some houses even have a hot tub or a sauna. I stayed in a place with a huge window that looked out at the sunset.
I also looked at Hotel Lakolk. It is right near the beach and has little flats with kitchenettes. If you are on a budget, Lakolk Strand Camping is a popular choice. It costs about DKK 19 per day for a dog there, but they cap the price at DKK 170 for the whole stay. I liked that they offer free internet, too. There are truly options for every traveler.
Where to Eat with Your Dog in Rømø
I was worried about taking my dog to restaurants. In the off-season, things are very relaxed. I took my dog into the restaurant at Hotel Kommandørgården, and it was no problem at all. Other guests had their dogs there too. However, this might be harder during the busy summer months. I always ask before I walk in. Most places with outdoor seating are very happy to have a dog join you.
I found a few other spots worth a mention. Café Fru Dax is a popular place near the harbor. Rømø Bageriet is perfect for a morning pastry. I also visited Otto & Ani’s Fisk for some fresh local fish. These places have a casual vibe. I often saw water bowls left out for pets. It makes you feel at home.
If you want a quiet evening, I suggest cooking at your holiday home. I went to the SPAR Rømø and Brugsen Rømø to get local supplies. I sat on my terrace with my dog and a plate of local cheese. It was better than any five-star meal. The peace of the island is the best seasoning.
Where to visit in Rømø
I spent most of my time outdoors. The Wadden Sea is the biggest attraction. When the tide goes out, the world changes. You can walk for miles on the mudflats. But you must be careful. I kept my dog on a lead here to protect the birds. Millions of birds use this area for food and rest. I did not want my dog to stress them out.
I also visited the Kirkeby Plantation. It is a beautiful area with a hidden lake called Hviddal Lake. The trees provide shelter from the wind. I also loved the dunes. They are massive and covered in grass. Be careful in the heather, though. The Danish adder lives there. It is a protected snake. It usually hides, but it can bite if it feels threatened. I kept my dog on the paths to stay safe.
The harbor in Havneby is another great spot. I watched the fishing boats come in. I also looked across the water toward Germany. You can see the island of Sylt from here. The whole island feels like a big park. Every corner has a new view.
Top Activities and Sightseeing With Dog
I think beach walking is the best thing to do here. The beaches on Rømø are some of the widest in Europe. You can even drive your car right onto the sand at Lakolk. It is a strange but cool experience. I flew a kite while my dog watched the shadows on the sand. The wind is perfect for it.
I also enjoyed hiking through the plantations. There are many paths that are firm and easy to walk. I saw people on bicycles too. If your dog is fit, you can rent a bike and a trailer. The terrain is mostly flat, but the wind can make it hard work. It is a great way to see more of the island.
I took a trip on the FRS Syltfähre ferry. It is a boat that goes from Havneby to the German island of Sylt. Dogs are very welcome on board. If you are in a car, your dog travels for free. If you are walking, there is a small fee. I sat on the open deck with my dog and enjoyed the sea breeze. It was a highlight of my trip.
Best Dog Parks and Outings
I found three main dog forests on Rømø. These are fenced areas where dogs can run off-leash all year. The first one is in Lakolk, just west of the campsite. The second is the Kirkeby Plantation. The third is Hundeskoven Vråby. I spent a lot of time at Vråby. It is about 1.5 hectares of woodland.
The Vråby dog forest is full of coastal pines and sandy paths. The ground is covered in soft needles, which is gentle on paws. I liked it because it was quiet and sheltered from the wind. I saw many locals there practicing recall with their dogs. There are benches where I could sit and relax while my dog sniffed around.
I suggest visiting these forests early in the morning. It is very peaceful then. Remember to keep the gates closed. This keeps the dogs in and the wild deer out. There are no water points inside the Vråby forest, so I brought my own bottle and bowl. It is a simple, no-frills place that dogs just love.
Best Dog Friendly Beaches
I have never seen beaches like the ones on Rømø. Lakolk Beach is huge. It is flat and goes on forever. During the winter months from October 1st to March 31st, dogs can run free here. You just need to have “full control” over them. This means they must come back as soon as you call. In the summer, they must stay on a lead on the sand.
However, there is a cool rule for swimmers. From April 1st to September 30th, dogs can swim off-leash if you are past the low-tide line. But this is only on non-Blue Flag beaches. On Blue Flag beaches, dogs are generally allowed to swim from September 16th to May 31st. I kept my dog at least 200 meters away from any Blue Flag. It is important to follow these rules to keep the water clean.
Sønderstrand is another amazing beach. It is very popular for wind-powered sports. I walked there for two hours and still did not reach the end. The sand can get very hot in the summer, so I checked it with my hand first. My dog loved digging in the damp sand near the water. It is a dog’s dream world.
Transportation Tips
I found getting around Rømø very easy. Most people arrive by car. The Rømødamm causeway is free to use. There are no tolls. The drive from the mainland near Skærbæk takes about 35 to 45 minutes. I do advise you to check the wind forecast. On very stormy days, the wind on the causeway can be quite strong.
If you are staying in Havneby, you can reach the Vråby dog forest in about 10 minutes by car. Parking at the plantations is usually free, though it can get crowded in the summer. I also saw many people on bikes. There are good cycle paths between Lakolk and other areas. A bike ride from Lakolk to Vråby takes about 25 to 40 minutes.
I also used the Sylt Ferry. You do not need to book your dog in advance. They can stay in the car or come up to the lounge on a lead. The ferry is a great way to avoid traffic jams if you are heading south. I found the staff to be very friendly toward my dog.
Veterinary Services and Emergencies
I always hope for a safe trip, but it is good to be ready. The main health risk on the island is the Danish adder. If your dog gets bitten by this snake, you must see a vet immediately for an antidote. I also kept an eye out for ticks. They are common in the tall grass and forests. I checked my dog every night after our walks.
There is no major veterinary clinic on the island itself, but you can find them in nearby mainland towns like Skærbæk or Bredebro. I saved the number for a local vet in my phone before I arrived. It gave me peace of mind.
I also made sure my dog had a collar with my name and address. This is actually the law in Denmark for any dog over four months old. If your dog gets lost, this is the fastest way to get them back. I also recommend bringing a basic pet first-aid kit. Pack some bandages and antiseptic cream.
Packing List for Dogs
I learned that being prepared makes the trip much better. Here is what I put in my bag:
- Leash and Harness: A short lead of about 1.5 meters is best for nature walks.
- Water and Bowl: Essential for the dog forests where there are no taps.
- Waste Bags: I always carry extras to keep the island clean.
- Pet Passport: I kept this in my glove box at all times.
- Tick Remover: A small tool to get those pesky bugs off safely.
- Towel: The sand and mud get everywhere. I used a towel to clean his paws before he got back in the car.
- Favorite Bed: It helped my dog settle into the holiday home much faster.
I also brought some of his regular food. Sometimes it is hard to find the exact brand you use in small island shops. I did not want him to have an upset stomach during our holiday.
Best Times to Visit in Rømø
I think every season has something to offer. Summer is great for the weather. The sun stays up late. But it is also the busiest time. This is when the leash laws are most strict. If you want your dog to have the most freedom, visit in the winter. From October to March, they can run free on the beaches.
Spring is beautiful because the birds are arriving. But you must be very careful not to disturb nesting sites. Autumn is also lovely. The forest floor in the dog parks turns beautiful colors. The air is crisp and the scent of the pines is very strong.
I personally loved the off-season. The accommodation prices are lower. The beaches are empty. It feels like you have the whole island to yourself. Just check that your chosen hotel or campsite is open, as some close for the winter.
Dog-Friendly Shopping in Rømø
I spent an afternoon at the Lakolk Butikscenter. It is a little shopping area right near the beach. I saw many people walking their dogs through the center. There is a Rømø Supermarked there if you need snacks.
I also stopped by Erik’s Skomageri. I found some local crafts and unique items. Many shops on the island have a very casual atmosphere. If you stay on the lead and your dog is calm, most shopkeepers are very welcoming.
I did not find a dedicated pet shop on the island. If you need special dog gear, you might need to look on the mainland. But for basic needs, the local supermarkets have a small pet section. I found plenty of treats and basic toys there.
Maps and Itineraries (3 days)
I planned a simple three-day trip to see the best of the island.
Day 1: The Great Wide North I started my morning at Lakolk Beach. I walked for an hour just to see the scale of the sand. Afterward, I went to the Lakolk Dog Forest to let my dog run free. I had lunch at a local cafe and spent the evening relaxing at my holiday home.
Day 2: Forest and Ferry I drove to the Vråby Dog Forest after breakfast. We spent over an hour exploring the pines. In the afternoon, I drove to Havneby and took the Sylt Ferry. We stayed on the boat for the return trip just to enjoy the sea.
Day 3: National Park and History I spent my final morning near the Wadden Sea mudflats. I took a slow walk to watch the birds. Then I visited the Nationalmuseets Kommandørgård to see some history. I ended my trip with a final run at the Kirkeby Dog Forest.
It was a full three days. I did not feel rushed. My dog was tired and happy every night.
Budgeting and Cost-Saving Tips
I found that Rømø can be affordable if you plan well. Staying in a campsite is the cheapest way to visit. You can expect to pay about DKK 107 per person, plus power and dog fees. That works out to about 25 euros per day.
Driving over the causeway is free, which saves money. I also saved money by cooking most of my meals. Eating out in Denmark can be expensive. If you book the Sylt Ferry return trip at the same time, you can often get a discount.
I also looked for holiday homes with a “No Deposit” policy. Companies like Esmark offer these. It helps keep your initial costs down. I found that most of the best activities, like the beach and the dog forests, are completely free. Nature does not charge an entry fee.
Day Trips from Rømø with Dog
I highly recommend the trip to Sylt. It is a German island with a very different feel. The ferry ride itself is a great experience for a dog. You can explore the town of List once you arrive.
You can also drive back to the mainland. Ribe is the oldest town in Denmark and it is only about 40 km away. It has beautiful cobblestone streets. I took my dog there for a walk, and he loved all the new smells. Just be careful with their paws on the old stones.
Another option is a trip to Esbjerg. It is a bigger city about 40 km north. It has more shops and a large harbor. But honestly, I found it hard to leave Rømø. The island has a way of making you want to stay put.
Pet Health and Wellness Tips
I noticed that the saltwater can dry out a dog’s skin. I made sure to rinse my dog with fresh water after he played in the sea. This prevents itching. I also kept a close watch on his paws. The sand can be abrasive, and the salt can cause small cracks.
Drinking sea water is also bad for dogs. It can make them sick. I always carried a lot of fresh water to make sure he stayed hydrated. If your dog seems tired, give them a break in the shade. The dunes can get very hot and there is not much shelter on the open beach.
I also checked for ticks every single day. This is the most important thing for their health in the Danish summer. I found a few on his legs after our walk in Vråby. I removed them quickly and he was fine.
Sustainability Tips for Eco-Conscious Pet Travelers
I want to keep this island beautiful. Did you know that drivers left 800 tons of trash along Danish roads last year? That is a shocking number. I made sure to take all my rubbish with me. I even picked up bits of plastic I found on the beach.
I followed the “Leave No Trace” rule. This means staying on the paths and not letting my dog chase wildlife. Stress is very hard on birds and seals. I also used biodegradable waste bags for my dog.
If you can, use a bicycle to get around. It reduces your carbon footprint. It also lets you hear the birds and the wind much better. Rømø is a fragile place. We must treat it with a lot of care.
Seasonal Events and Festivals for pet in Rømø
I did not find any big dog-only festivals during my stay, but there are always things happening. On New Year’s Eve, some hotels like the Clarion Copenhagen Airport offer “Happy Dog” packages with soundproof rooms to avoid the stress of fireworks. While that is in the city, some people choose the quiet of Rømø for the same reason.
The Kite Festival on Rømø is a huge event. While it is not specifically for dogs, I saw many people there with their pets. The sky is full of color. It is a wonderful sight.
In the autumn, the “Black Sun” event happens in the Wadden Sea. This is when thousands of starlings fly together in patterns. I watched this from a distance with my dog. It was a magical moment. Rømø is a place where every day feels like a celebration of nature. I hope you and your dog enjoy it as much as I did.
“The magníficient nature of the national park invites you to many lovely walks.”. I couldn’t agree more. Go. Explore. Enjoy. It is a trip you will never forget.
FAQ
Does my dog need a special tag in Denmark?
Yes. Every dog older than four months must wear a collar. This collar needs a tag with your name and address. This is the law here.
What happens if my dog barks a lot at my holiday home?
Danish law is strict about peace and quiet. If a dog barks too much and neighbors complain to the police, you will receive an order to keep the pet inside. If the noise continues, the police can have the dog removed.
Can I walk my dog on private farm land?
No. You must not let a dog wander on private land if you do not have the right to be there. Landowners can take or remove a dog from their property if the pet is loose without permission.
Is it okay to bring other pets like cats?
Yes. Denmark welcomes dogs, cats, and even ferrets from EU countries. These animals also need a microchip and an EU pet passport with rabies vaccination records.
Concluding words
I think Rømø is the best spot for a pet holiday in 2026. The island has a mix of massive beaches and quiet woods. You just need to follow the rules about leashes and vaccinations to stay safe. My trip was full of peace. Fresh air. Happy tail wags. I suggest you book a holiday home soon. Your dog will thank you for the extra space and the salty sea breeze.
