Bathing hotel since 1925
The story of Klithjem
Since 1925, Klithjem Badehotel has been located behind the dunes at Vejers Strand on the west coast of Jutland in Denmark, just a few hundred metres from the North Sea. Guests come here to find tranquillity by the sea, feel nature up close and spend time together - just as they have done for more than 100 years.
The history is felt in the details. In the stairs that creak slightly, in the little nooks and crannies hidden both inside and out, and in the feeling of stepping into a place where time is allowed to pass a little slower.
The story of Klithjem
From speakeasy to beach hotel
It started as a shed
Before Klithjem became the beach hotel we know today, it was just a small shed on Vejers Strand. The story goes that it was the local baker who built it in 1920 as a sanctuary where he could take a nap after morning deliveries to the soldiers from the area's training grounds.
Rumours about the little shed by the water spread quickly. Soon, the postman, milkman and other locals began to stop by after the day's work was done. Not to take a rest, but to enjoy a schnapps and have a chat about big and small things from the parish.
The shed was popularly known as "Smugkroen". Here, in the middle of the dune landscape and away from everyday chores, an informal gathering place arose where stories were told and time stood still for a while. And it was here, in the small shed close to the water, that the first seeds of Klithjem began to take shape.
Built from English lobster pots
A few years later, "Smugkroen" was expanded by the local beach warden - not with materials from a sawmill but with what the sea had washed up on the beach. After storms, you could find lobster crates from English fishing boats that had washed ashore on Vejers Strand. And it was precisely these boxes that were used for the construction project.
The lobster crates were stacked on top of each other, knocked together and covered with boards, straw and chicken wire. Finally, a layer of cement was added to bind the materials together and give the walls a surface.
The lobster crates disappeared behind the cement, but they were still there, and they gave the house the name "Lobster Can" - a name that told how it came to be. Over time, "Hummerdåsen" grew into what is known today as Klithjem. Although the walls were later reinforced with concrete, the history was still hidden inside. During renovations in 1955 and 1998, the old lobster pots reappeared as a reminder of the house's special beginnings.
Marie Klit - the heart behind Klithjem
In 1925, Marie Nielsen bought the small place on the coast and turned it into Pension Klithjem. In winter she taught as a teacher, but when summer approached, she travelled to Vejers Strand. Here she opened the doors to the guesthouse and welcomed guests seeking the tranquillity of the sea and the fresh sea air.
Marie, who also became known as Marie Klit, quickly made her mark on the place. With natural warmth and dedication, she created a guest house where guests felt welcome. Days were filled with trips to the beach, communal meals and long, bright summer evenings in the dunes.
She had a special heart for her guests - and especially for the children who needed a little extra break from everyday life. Every summer, she invited disadvantaged and infirm pupils from her school to Vejers Strand so they could fill their lungs with fresh sea air and feel the freedom of the sea.
Pensionat Klithjem was therefore more than just a place to spend the night. It was a place filled with care, presence and warmth - with a hostess who made a difference to those who passed by.
Guests from near and far
People came from far and wide to experience the coast and the special atmosphere at Klithjem. Newspaper reports from the 1930s tell of guests such as engineer Thimann and his wife from Berlin, postmaster Jacobsen and family from Copenhagen and director Bang from Nykøbing Falster. Klithjem was a place where people met, where small stories were shared over the dinner table, and where the tranquillity of the coast gave new energy.
During the war years
During the occupation, the character of Vejers changed. The area was sealed off and Klithjem took on a new role as a command centre for officers and engineers who built bunkers and fortifications along the coast. Even in a time of turmoil, the house was a hub - a witness to history and the many layers that the west coast holds.
The story continues
Since 1925, changing owners have left their mark on Klithjem. But no one has changed what has made the place special for more than 100 years. In 2025, the Slaikjær family and Hvidbjerg Collection took over Klithjem Badehotel - with respect for history and an eye for the future. Today, Klithjem is a historic seaside hotel where coastal traditions meet modern hospitality. A sanctuary for guests seeking tranquillity, raw nature and time for each other.
Today
A part of something bigger
Klithjem is part of Hvidbjerg Collection, a family of coastal holiday and accommodation offers along the west coast of Jutland. From nature camping to cabins, luxury villas and hotels
Although the places are different, they share the philosophy that a holiday cannot be undone. It's a commitment - and that's why we strive to give our guests a great experience with quality and presence in focus.
History in brief
Why we have always sought the sea?
Like many seaside hotels of the time, Klithjem emerged as a sanctuary for those seeking the tranquility and intimacy of the sea.
Seaside hotels emerged in the late 1800s as a reaction to industrialisation, which filled cities with noise and soot. The wealthy bourgeoisie began to look to the coasts, and in the summer they flocked to the sea. Both for pleasure and for the fresh, clean air that energised and improved their health. With suitcases, waiters and the expectation of comfort, seaside hotels slowly became a natural part of the summer rhythm along the coast.
Although much has happened since then, in many ways it's the same movement we see today. We look to the sea because it gives us a sense of calm and reminds us of what really matters: the simple and the close.
Bathing hotels are part of the Danish cultural heritage, and Klithjem is proof that the tradition is alive and well. That there are still places by the North Sea where the atmosphere is warm, the food good and the pace slow. Exactly as it should be at a seaside hotel.
Ready to book
Experience the history of the beach hotel
Klithjem is a historic beach hotel by Vejers Strand on the west coast of Denmark. The seaside hotel is close to the North Sea and here you can feel the authentic seaside hotel atmosphere with tranquillity, proximity to nature and time to breathe. It's a haven for anyone who dreams of a holiday by the North Sea. Whether it's a quiet weekend for two, a romantic break from everyday life or days filled with long walks along the beach and time to enjoy nature.
Words and pictures can only tell part of the story. You'll feel the rest when you step into the beach hotel.