After breakfast, collect your hire car and leave Copenhagen for North Zealand. Often called the Danish Riviera, this region is a dream destination for travellers seeking a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Just a short drive from the capital, North Zealand is perfect for a leisurely road trip, offering scenic coastal routes, majestic castles, charming villages, and culinary delights. The full drive is only about 60 kilometres, giving you ample time to explore along the way. We recommend stopping at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art in Humlebæk – a world-class gallery set against a stunning seaside backdrop.
Arrive at Hotel Bretagne, beautifully restored to reflect the elegance of its heyday when well-to-do citizens flocked to Hornbæk, a jewel on the North Zealand Riviera – also known as the city of light. Your superior room is decorated in refined Gustavian style and offers views of Lake Hornbæk and the sea.
North Zealand is home to some of Denmark’s most iconic castles, and you may wish to include visits to:
- Frederiksborg Castle – Scandinavia’s largest Renaissance castle, built by King Christian IV in the early 17th century. Set on three small islets in a tranquil lake, it houses the Museum of National History, showcasing 500 years of Danish history through portraits, furniture, and decorative arts. Stroll through the Baroque gardens or enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the castle lake.
- Kronborg Castle – A UNESCO World Heritage site in Elsinore, famously known as Hamlet’s Castle. Explore its grand halls, intricate tapestries, and atmospheric casemates, or visit during summer for the immersive Hamlet Live experience.
- Fredensborg Palace – The royal family’s most frequently used residence, an elegant 18th-century baroque palace often hosting official state visits. While interior access is limited, the surrounding gardens offer a glimpse into regal life.
This evening, dine at the hotel’s restaurant, which boasts panoramic views of Lake Hornbæk. Adjacent to the dining room is the largest of three terraces, perfect for enjoying dinner al fresco during the summer months.
Meals
1 Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel Bretagne