Lyø
Lyø is a peaceful island in the South Funen Archipelago known for scenic walking, historic village charm and unique sights. Walk around “Bjerget”, explore the Wind Phone and the Bell Stone, and discover authentic Danish island life near Faaborg.

Experience Lyø in a Day
Lyø is an island best explored at a slower pace. It is particularly well-suited to walking, but its quiet roads and short distances also make it ideal for cycling. Whichever way you choose to get around, we recommend taking the 5:00 PM ferry back to Faaborg. This departure sails directly to Faaborg, while the other departures make a stop on Avernakø first.
You can choose whichever ferry suits your plans. The 12:00 PM departure gives you around five hours on the island, while the 10:00 AM departure allows for approximately seven hours of exploring.
Before departure, you can pick up a free map of the island from the Faaborg Tourist Office. The map shows walking and cycling routes as well as attractions and points of interest across the island.


Recommended Route 1: Explore Lyø on Foot
Take the ferry at 10:00 AM or 12:00 PM and arrive on Lyø 40 minutes later. From the harbour, we recommend starting your visit with a scenic walk along the coastline. Turn left from the ferry landing and follow the path along the shore, where you will enjoy views of the South Funen Archipelago. Along the way, you pass Lyø's bird reserve, a peaceful area rich in wildlife and open landscapes.
At the end of the path, you will find a small beach with picnic tables and benches. Continue along the road, and halfway up you will see a gate leading into a field. Follow the marked route across the field, cross the small wooden footbridge over the stream, and continue uphill through the landscape.
At the top, the view opens up over a beautiful valley. Follow the trail down through the valley, where grazing cattle are often part of the scenery. The route is clearly signposted. At the far end, the path continues through a small woodland before reaching the southern part of the island, offering another impressive coastal view.
Returning through the woodland, you pass a shelter and public toilet before the road leads you to Lyø Village. The walk takes around two hours, depending on your pace and the number of stops.
Once in the village, enjoy lunch at Café Lyø, located in the former village school. Lunch is typically served until 3:00 PM, but we recommend checking opening hours before your visit.
After lunch, take time to wander through the village's charming lanes, visit the church with its distinctive circular churchyard, and browse local galleries and seasonal roadside stalls.
If you arrived on the 10:00 AM ferry, you may also have time to visit the Wind Phone. Inspired by a Japanese concept, the Wind Phone is a simple telephone booth where visitors can "speak" to loved ones they miss. Many find it a moving and reflective experience. The site is about a 2 km detour from the village.
Tip: Allow around 30 minutes to travel from the village back to the harbour to ensure you reach the ferry in good time.


Recommended Route 2: Explore Lyø by Bicycle
Lyø's quiet roads and compact size make it an excellent cycling destination.
From the harbour, cycle towards the village. At the first junction, turn left and then shortly afterwards right. Along the way, you pass the village pond, the local grocery store and several beautifully preserved island homes.
Continue along Vestensvej towards Klokkestenen (The Bell Stone). On the route, you pass Lyø's historic windmill and open countryside with sweeping views of the archipelago. The Bell Stone is an ancient Stone Age burial monument that produces a surprisingly clear, bell-like sound when gently struck with a small stone. A bench nearby makes this an ideal place for a break and a view over the sea.
From Klokkestenen, continue along Revvej. Here you will find Oase Lyø, which serves food and refreshments during the summer season. After lunch, cycle back towards the village and continue on to the Wind Phone, one of the island's most unique attractions.
Finish your day by exploring the village before heading back to the harbour for the 5:00 PM ferry to Faaborg.
Island hopping from Lyø
Lyø is a great stop if you want to explore more islands in the South Funen Archipelago. From here, you can easily continue to Avernakø or combine your visit with Bjørnø for a varied island experience.
Each island offers something different – from historic villages to open landscapes and new perspectives on island life. For routes, ferry connections and planning tips, see our guide to island hopping in the South Funen Archipelago.
History of Lyø
Lyø is one of the small islands in the South Funen Archipelago with a well-preserved cultural landscape. At its heart lies Lyø village, where narrow streets connect historic houses, many dating back to the 18th century.
The circular churchyard around Lyø Church is a rare feature and reflects the island’s strong sense of community. The Bell Stone is one of the oldest traces of human presence on the island.


Where to eat on Lyø
Dining options on Lyø follow the rhythm of the seasons. Two cafés are typically open from May to September, offering light meals in relaxed surroundings.
Outside the summer season, there are no regular dining options, so visitors should bring their own food. The island, however, offers plenty of scenic spots perfect for a picnic.
Stay on Lyø
Lyø offers a range of accommodation options, including holiday apartments and the small B&B Oase Lyø.
Holiday apartments usually require a minimum stay of two nights, making them ideal for longer visits. If you are planning a shorter stay, the B&B offers the flexibility of one-night bookings.








