Go fossil hunting in South Zealand and Møn, where cliffs and quarries reveal the secrets of ancient seas. At Møns Klint, Stevns Klint, and Faxe Quarry, you have the chance to discover fossils and enjoy a truly unique nature experience.
Petrified history: Around 70 million years ago, creatures like cephalopods, sea urchins, mussels, algae, and many others inhabited the seas near Møns Klint. Over time, they became preserved in the chalk of the cliffs. Although many of these species are now extinct, you might still find fossils in the lime-rich soil, such as belemnites—a part of the octopus carapace—and sea urchins. Keep in mind, however, that using picks or other tools for fossil hunting at Møns Klint is prohibited; you may only collect fossils that are visibly accessible. GeoCenter Møns Klint offers guided fossil hunts daily during peak season. For more details, visit moensklint.dk. You are encouraged to keep what you find, and if you need help identifying your discoveries, the nature guides at GeoCenter Møns Klint are available to assist you at the reception.
Discover treasures at Stevns Klint: Approximately 65 million years ago, the cliffs at Stevns Klint were submerged underwater, just like much of Northern Europe. This makes it possible to find fossils embedded in the chalk and limestone from that era, including remains of snails, sea urchins, and starfish. Sharks and octopuses also inhabited these waters, so their fossilized traces might be present too. The geological museum in Faxe, Geo: Museum Faxe, displays an impressive collection of fossils. Between the chalk and limestone lies a thin layer of grey clay known as fish clay, which provides evidence of a catastrophic event that wiped out over half the species on Earth at the time, including the dinosaurs. Remember, at Stevns Klint, only visible fossils may be collected, as the use of picks or tools is not allowed.
Fossil hunting in Faxe Limestone Quarry: This quarry is a fascinating site of Danish history stretching back millions of years. It represents the seabed from an ocean that existed 63 million years ago. Today, the quarry is a popular destination for families seeking fossils of creatures like crocodiles, giant sharks, and other exotic animals from that time. At Geomuseum Faxe, you can rent hammers and chisels or join one of the museum’s guided fossil hunting tours.
Holtug Chalk Quarry: Used as an active limestone and chalk quarry until 1972, this area is now a protected Natura 2000 site. Visitors can explore the quarry to discover rare and protected plants, amphibians, reptiles, as well as fossils and mineralized organisms.
Important reminder: Fossils are relics from prehistoric times, so it’s crucial to approach fossil hunting with respect and to follow the guidelines regarding what can be collected and taken home. For more inspiration and information about exploring South Zealand and Møn, feel free to read further on dedicated travel sites.