Less than a two-hour drive from Esbjerg, the fertile island of Als nestles between the Jutland Peninsula and the larger island of Funen. Sparkling bays beckon on the island's west coast, and the beautiful beaches here make Als a popular place for vacations. 

Sønderborg, the capital, straddles the Als Strait (Alssund), which separates the island from the Danish mainland and is traversed by two bridges. Highlights of a visit to the island include Sønderborg Castle, with a museum that unveils the region's history; a pretty harbor with cafés and restaurants; and a sprinkling of old churches and mills.