Four medieval churches in the landscape between Lake Fønsvang and the Little Belt

Føns, Ørslev, Udby and Husby lie scattered across the hilly landscape of Middelfart Municipality, all rooted in the Middle Ages and open during the day. Step into a cool, whitewashed nave, light a candle and sit for a while in the silence. Outside, you will find pic nic tables in the churchyards, where you can unpack your sandwiches and coffee and take in the view.

Føns Church is the oldest of the four, dating from the 1100s, and lies close to Lake Fønsvang. Its medieval alterations and renovations bear witness to changing times and needs. Follow the path along the churchyard wall, and keep an eye out for the white-tailed eagle often seen by the lake.

Ørslev Church stands high with a view across the Funen landscape and holds the country's oldest baptismal font. The soapstone basin was originally imported from Norway during the Viking Age and was intended for cooking; at 59 cm in diameter it is considerably larger than the usual 40 cm. In the Middle Ages it was fitted with a stone base, and it is likely the oldest surviving church fitting in Denmark.

Udby Church is bright and without vaulting, with an altarpiece painted by Ernst Trier in 1960.

Husby Church is known for its yellow limewashed façade and onion dome. Behind the wrought-iron gates lies the Wedellsborg family chapel, holding seven stone sarcophagi of members of the Wedell family.

Throughout the year there is always something on: open-air services, pilgrim walks, summer and autumn matinées, jazz services and meditations. Visit the churches' joint website for current events.

Tip: Bring a thermos and make a coffee stop at several churches on the same trip – they lie close together around Nørre Aaby.