Go fossil hunting!

Approx. 70 million years ago, cephalopods, sea urchins, mussels, algae and many other animals lived around Møns Klint, becoming embedded in the chalk of the cliffs over time. Many of the species are now extinct, but you might still be lucky enough to find fossils in the lime-rich soil – e.g. belemnites, which are part of the carapace of an octopus, as well as sea urchins. 

However, remember that you are not allowed to use a pick or other tools when you go fossil hunting around Møns Klint, which means that you can only collect visible finds. 

Around 65 million years ago, the Stevns Klint cliffs were covered by the sea, just as most of Northern Europe was. Therefore, we might be lucky enough to find fossils in the chalk and limestone dating all the way back to this period. Among other things, it’s possible to find the fossilised remains of snails, sea urchins and starfish, but sharks and octopuses also lived in the waters, which is why it’s possible to find remnants of these here too. At the geological museum in Faxe, GeoMuseum Faxe, you can see a beautiful collection of fossils.

You are not allowed to use a pick or other tools when you go fossil hunting around Stevns Klint, which means that you can only collect visible finds. 

Until 1972, Holtug Limestone Quarry was an active limestone or chalk quarry, and it is now a protected “Natura 2000 area”. You can rent a hammer and chisel on-site and go fossil hunting in the beautiful and unique landscape, where you might be lucky enough to find fossils of sea urchins, octopuses and sharks in the soft, white chalk. Protected salamanders and other small invertebrates live in the large pond. 

Remember: Fossils are relics from prehistoric times, and it’s important that you embark on your fossil hunt with a respect for, and understanding of, the guidelines of what you can collect and take home. Read more here