Couple chooses forest burial near Ledreborg castle as a serene final resting place

Anne Kristine Smith, 74, from Sorø, has made a unique decision regarding her and her husband’s final resting place. They will be interred in the forest near Ledreborg Castle in Lejre, overlooking the tranquil Knapsø lake. “We both love the forest and water, so this location suits us perfectly,” Smith stated.

The choice to forgo a traditional cemetery was a natural one for the couple, as they are not members of the Folkekirken (the Church of Denmark), and Smith has a personal aversion to graveyards. “When I visit my family’s burial site, it makes me very sad. Being there rekindles my grief. In the forest, there is peace and tranquility, and we can become one with nature,” she explained.

Many individuals share Smith’s sentiment, as interest in forest burials is on the rise. Since 2018, the service provider Skovbegravelse has facilitated over 1,000 forest burials, with more requests coming in daily. Jannik Ahlefeldt-Laurvig, the company’s director, remarked on the overwhelming demand they have experienced for these natural burial options.

Currently, Skovbegravelse operates in 22 designated forest locations, with more in the pipeline pending final approvals. One such area is Frøkeners Skov near Nykøbing Sjælland, owned by farmer Henrik Bøje Nielsen, who appreciates the healing aspect of nature in the grieving process.

Though his forest is yet to host ashes or urns, Nielsen is optimistic, noting the diversity of trees and their potential to meet people’s preferences for a meaningful final resting place. “I think there’s something for everyone here,” he said, referring to the variety of trees available in the woods.