Kovadsbæk

Kovadsbæk is a marsh spring in Stendalen, where many small springs join together to form a clear spring brook through Rebild Bakker. From here, the water continues into Lindenborg Å, and the area is known for its clean, fresh spring water and rich natural environment.

The brook is fed by dozens of small streams, which gradually merge to form Kovads Bæk – also known locally as Kovrsbæk. Every second, the brook carries around 80-85 litres of clear spring water onwards into the river system.

The history of Kovadsbæk

In the past, Kovads Bæk was dammed just north of the paved road. A large millpond once lay here, and traces of it can still be seen in the landscape.

The site was also home to Kousmølle, also known as Kogermølle. Several hundred years ago, the mill was moved – first to Thingbæk and later to Røde Mølle a few kilometres further south.

Nature and wildlife

Kovadsbæk is one of the most important spawning areas for sea trout in the river system. Around Christmas, especially in dark weather, you may be lucky enough to see sea trout spawning in the brook. One place to watch this is from the road bridge.

The brook also has a permanent population of brook trout, which was originally introduced to Denmark from North America as a fish farm species in the late 19th century. Kovadsbæk is one of the few places in Denmark where brook trout breed.

The clean, flowing water and the gravelly, stony streambed provide good living conditions for many freshwater animals, including several rare species.

Kovadsbæk is protected, and it is not permitted to collect plants or animals in the area.