'Støvlen' ('The Boot') – Sønderborg, Denmark - Atlas Obscura
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'Støvlen' ('The Boot')

Sønderborg, Denmark

This colossal hiking boot, once built for a scout jamboree, serves as an observation tower and barbecue area. 

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'Støvlen' ('The Boot') Johan SWE (Atlas Obscura User)
'Støvlen' ('The Boot') Johan SWE (Atlas Obscura User)
The laces are made of sturdy ropes. Johan SWE (Atlas Obscura User)
From the heel, stairs lead up to the observation deck. Johan SWE (Atlas Obscura User)
On top, there's a flagpole. Johan SWE (Atlas Obscura User)
The boot's toe houses a barbecue area. Johan SWE (Atlas Obscura User)
View from the observation tower. Johan SWE (Atlas Obscura User)
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In the summer of 2017, over 35,000 scouts converged in Sønderborg, southern Denmark, for an international jamboree. The event’s theme, “We Leave Marks,” materialized with the unveiling of an extraordinary landmark: a colossal hiking boot named Støvlen (‘The Boot’).

Stretching 66 feet (24 meters) in length and boasting a men’s shoe size of US 450 (EU 3600), Støvlen is a marvel of whimsical architecture. The toe of this giant boot serves as a sheltered gathering spot for barbecues, while the shaft houses an accessible toilet and a stair tower ascending to a viewing platform 40 feet (12 meters) above the ground.

The unique structure, featuring a steel frame and thatched wooden surface, resulted from a collaboration between various companies and dedicated scout volunteers. Among these volunteers were engineers, carpenters, and electricians who worked tirelessly from dawn till dusk over several months. Their collective effort embodied the spirit of the scout movement, putting their best foot forward.

Unlike most scout jamboree landmarks that are dismantled post-event, Støvlen has been preserved permanently. It now stands as a lasting footprint in Sønderborg, making a BIG impression on visitors.

Know Before You Go

'Støvlen' stands in a natural reserve on the Kær Peninsula, at Sønderborg's northern edge. Open 24/7 with free admission, it offers nearby parking. For public transit, take the bus to Vestermark v Bosager and enjoy a 20-minute walk to the giant boot.

camping shoes hiking architectural oddities
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