The Lakes

The Lakes, or Søerne, are three connected artificial lakes in central Copenhagen: Sankt Jørgens Sø, Peblinge Sø, and Sortedams Sø, curving along the city centre’s western edge between Vesterbro, Nørrebro, and Østerbro. Peblinge Sø originated from a medieval dam built to supply water for mills, while Sortedams Sø was formed later; Sankt Jørgens Sø was created through further damming in the early seventeenth century. The lakes became part of Copenhagen’s defensive waterworks after the city’s fortifications were strengthened following the 1523 siege, and Peblinge Sø and Sortedams Sø were deepened and cleaned between 1705 and 1727 for use as reservoirs. Today, the shoreline path runs for roughly 6.35 kilometres, with views toward neighbourhoods such as Nørrebro and Østerbro, cafés along Sortedam Dossering, and frequent sightings of swans and other waterfowl. The area is free and accessible around the clock throughout the year; early morning or late afternoon offers the calmest conditions for walking or running.