CopenHill

CopenHill is the ultimate architectural paradox: a fully functioning waste-to-energy plant that doubles as an urban mountain for skiing, hiking, and climbing in a city otherwise defined by its near-total flatness.

What to expect — what visitors actually see/do

The visual impact of CopenHill (locally known as Amager Bakke) is immediate. As you approach, you see a jagged, synthetic ski slope cascading down the side of a mammoth industrial building. Once you hike or take the glass elevator to the rooftop, the experience shifts from industrial observation to panoramic leisure.

The primary attraction is the 450-meter-long artificial ski slope, fashioned from a high-tech green recycled plastic material that mimics the friction of snow. In summer, you will see people tubing or "skiing" in t-shirts; in winter, snow canons ensure the surface remains white. Even if you aren't a skier, the "rooftop park" offers an elevated trail with 7,000 shrubs and 300 trees, providing views across the Øresund Strait toward Sweden. On the southern facade, you will find the world’s tallest climbing wall, a 85-meter vertical challenge that towers over the industrial port.

History & significance — brief background

Designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and opened in 2017, CopenHill represents the pinnacle of "hedonistic sustainability." The facility burns non-recyclable waste to provide electricity and district heating for 150,000 Copenhagen households. The architectural conceit—placing a recreational facility, a clean-air exhaust loop, and a power plant in one—is a global benchmark for integrating heavy industry into a dense urban environment without compromising aesthetics or public joy.

Practical tips — opening hours norms, tickets, queues, best time of day

Access: Climbing the slope on foot is free and open to the public; simply follow the hiking trail to the summit.
Activities: Skiing, rental gear, and climbing require a paid pass. Book these in advance via the CopenHill website.
Operating Hours: The plant is generally open from morning until late evening (often until 20:00 or 21:00). Check the calendar for specific slope hours as they change with the season.
Best Time: Go on a weekday morning or late afternoon for smaller crowds. Sunset is spectacular here, as the lighting across the harbor turns golden.
Wind: Because the plant is located on the coast, it is significantly windier at the top than at street level; dress in layers regardless of the season.

Getting there — neighbourhood, transport

CopenHill is located in the industrial waterfront of the Amager district (Vindmøllevej 6). The easiest way to reach it is via the Copenhagen Metro. Take the M4 line to Nordhavn or the M2 line to Amager Strand, but note that it remains a brisk 15-20 minute walk from the nearest stations. Alternatively, the 2A bus drops you significantly closer to the plant. If cycling—the preferred Danish method—it is a flat 15-minute ride from the city center via the Inderhavnsbroen bridge.

Nearby — 2-3 sights or eats within walking distance