The Vidåen, Denmark's most south-westerly stream, plays a central role in the landscape of Southern Jutland and is a vital part of the ecosystem that stretches through Tønder Municipality into the extensive Wadden Sea. With a source near the confluence of Arnå and Hvirlå and a length of approx. 69 km, Vidåen is crucial for the drainage of the large area of ​​over 1,000 km², which includes parts of the Tøndermarsken. This function is supported by an extensive system of dams and pumping stations, which are essential for agricultural productivity and the protection of the low-lying areas from flooding​​​​

Vidåen also has a special significance for the biodiversity in the area, not least because of its role as the home of the last existing population of proboscis in Denmark. The bill, which was previously widespread in Danish streams, is now an endangered species, and the efforts to reintroduce and preserve this species in the Vidåen and other streams with an outlet in the Wadden Sea are an important nature conservation project​​.

The region around Vidåen is characterized by a unique combination of scenic landscapes, cultural history and modern land reclamation projects. This landscape bears witness to a profound interaction between man and nature, where the course and characteristics of the stream have both shaped and been shaped by local communities over the centuries. From its role in medieval North Frisian settlements to its central function in today's land reclamation projects and nature conservation initiatives, Vidåen is a living example of the dynamic relationship between human activity and the natural environment​​​​

Vidåen and its surroundings therefore appear as an integral part of Southern Jutland's cultural and natural heritage, offering insight into the region's history, while at the same time supporting the rich animal and plant life that defines the unique ecosystem in and around the Wadden Sea.

Recreational experiences by the river

Fishing is a popular activity along Vidåen, which is home to a wide selection of fish species. This makes the stream an attractive place for fishermen who want to experience the thrill of catching different types of fish in scenic surroundings​​.

Hiking and cycling along the stream offers the opportunity to explore the varied landscape that characterizes Southern Jutland. Several marked paths and cycle routes follow the course of the stream through the Tøndermarsken and offer unique views over the river valleys and the surrounding agricultural areas, which bear witness to the area's rich cultural history and modern land reclamation projects.

Canoeing on Vidåen offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the river and the surrounding landscape from the water's side. A trip in a canoe along the stream reveals the quiet streams, the lush vegetation and gives the opportunity to get close to the rich wildlife that makes the area something very special.

Bird watching is another popular activity in the area, thanks to Vidåen's role as a habitat for many bird species. The river's location close to the Wadden Sea, one of the world's most important areas for migratory birds, enables bird watchers to observe a large number of bird species, especially during the spring and autumn migration seasons.

Lægan Pumping Station is open to visitors every day - and admission is free. Lægan Pump Station is the largest of Tøndermarsken's total of four pumping stations. The four electrically driven pumps can collectively move up to 16,000 liters of water per second – inside the pumping station you can see for yourself.