Soak Up the Sun: My Favorite Green Spots in Nordvest

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to read, a long running route, or just a patch of green to soak up some sun—Nordvest has more nature than meets the eye. As someone who lives here and spends a lot of time walking, running, and exploring the area, I’ve come to really appreciate the mix of hidden spots and bigger, wilder landscapes right in our backyard.

From quiet inner courtyards to stretches of lakeside paths, these are my favorite green spaces in the neighborhood—places that keep me grounded, curious, and constantly rediscovering what makes Nordvest special.

Utterslev Torv - a little green oasis in Nordvest

Utterslev Torv

Tucked away at the far end of Rentemestervej, Utterslev Torv feels like one of those tiny hidden parks you stumble across and then can't stop coming back to. It's just far enough from central Nordvest to feel like a secret, but close enough for a short detour. A little lake sits at its center, surrounded by benches perfect for reading, soaking up the sun, or simply watching the day pass.

What makes the square even more special is what surrounds it: you’ve got Dorthea’s Bar right there—always lively with fun events like “Skak og Vin” (chess and wine!) and queer speed dating—and Nødvendigvis, one of the cheapest and tastiest ice cream shops in the area. Last time I stopped by, I had a scoop of yogurt and pistachio that made my afternoon. All in all, Utterslev Torv is a lovely, quiet green corner that blends nature, neighborhood charm, and delicious detours.

Bispebjerg Cemetery

Bispebjerg Kirkegård isn’t just a cemetery—it’s an entire landscape of winding paths, blooming trees, peaceful spots, and architectural beauty. I go there to run, walk, and breathe, and it’s so vast that you can loop around endlessly without retracing your steps. My husband and I even took our wedding photos there—it really is that beautiful.

In spring, it turns into one of the most magical places in Copenhagen with its iconic cherry blossom alley, and year-round, you get a fantastic view of Grundtvigs Kirke. It’s also home to Dansekapellet, where you can catch dance performances and community events. Much like Assistens Cemetery in Nørrebro, it holds that rare feeling of both memory and life. You never leave without seeing something beautiful.

Utterslev Mose - the wildlife escape to nature in the middle of the city

Utterslev Mose

I didn’t know much about Utterslev Mose until I moved to Nordvest—but now, I go there almost every week. Whether I’m out for a solo walk, joining a community run with Heat Harmony, or just needing a nature break, it’s always a good idea. You can choose your route: one lake loop is around 5 km, and with the right detours, you can stretch it to 10 km or more.

Along the way, you’ll find wooden platforms by the water for sitting, reading, or meditating, and informational signs that tell you about the birds, plants, and animals that live in the area. It’s one of those rare spots where it feels like time slows down a little. Still hoping to find wild garlic there one day—no luck so far! It’s perfect for moving your body or just clearing your head.

Lersøparken

Lersøparken is one of Nordvest’s most underrated green spaces. Nestled between Bispebjerg Hospital and the train tracks, it’s big, quiet, and surprisingly versatile. It’s got picnic tables, wide open lawns, and a bunch of football goals that are usually free on weekends. Runners love it here—and so do I—because you can go all the way from Bispebjerg Station to Mindelunden in Hellerup without ever hitting a red light.

My favorite part? A little triangle of wildflowers right after Tagensvej. It changes with the seasons and always surprises me—tall purple stalks, vivid spring blooms, or snow-covered silence in winter. It’s one of those small but joyful details that make a run or walk through Lersøparken feel like a gift.

Emaljehaven

If you’re looking for a low-key, local green spot right in the middle of Nordvest, Emaljehaven is a gem. It feels almost like a private courtyard, but it’s open to all. There are picnic tables, grassy spots to lie down, and even football goals and playgrounds for kids. It’s small but packed with charm—and surrounded by options. Side note: It’s also one of the homes of Mojn, a self-service flower cart that is a perfect example of why living here is amazing.

Next door you’ve got Café Sirius for your coffee or snack needs, Bodega Konkylie if you want something stronger later in the day, or Circle K if you just want to grab a soda on the go. On the other side, you’re close to Nørrebro Bycenter, Lygten Bazaar, or a number of neighborhood eateries. In spring, cherry blossom trees bloom around the square, giving it a soft, pink glow that always makes me smile.

Grøndalsparken - perfect out of the ordinary running or walking route in Nordvest

Grøndalsparken

Grøndalsparken might be Nordvest’s most overlooked stretch of green—but it’s worth exploring. It's a long, narrow greenway that runs alongside the train tracks and gradually transforms as you move westward. You can go all the way to Rødovre Lake if you want, and if you loop back, you’ve just done a solid 15 km. Add in some extra exploration and you’ll find yourself in Islev before you know it.

It’s not the most picturesque park in the classic sense, but there’s something adventurous about walking past small gardens, local stations, and new parts of town. Once, I got caught in a surprise hailstorm 7 km from home—so now I always check the forecast. It’s the kind of park that keeps you curious, and I love that about it.

These are just some of the places I return to again and again, whether for fresh air, movement, or a little moment of calm. If you’re also living in Nordvest—or just visiting—I hope they inspire you to explore a little more of the neighborhood's nature side.