The Colorful Zealand in Denmark

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Venture north from Copenhagen to Hamlet’s castle at Helsingør, or south to the white cliffs of Møn, and discover Zealand, a colorful land rich in culture and tradition.

The island of Zealand (Sjælland) is Denmark’s largest island, yet it is still compact and most of its attractions make ideal day trips from the capital. The area north of Copenhagen makes a classic tour for visitors, with its undulating countryside, beech forests, lakes and good beaches, as well as castles, manor houses, royal hunting lodges, art galleries and museums.

The Colorful Zealand in Denmark
Lake in Zealand

Related: Zealand Coast Around Copenhagen

The southern and western areas of Zealand have traditionally been entry points for new people and ideas coming from the Continent. This side of the island is an enchanting expanse of rolling hills, woodland and some wonderful seaside scenery.

The Colorful Zealand in Denmark
From the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

The Danish Riviera
The coast road from Copenhagen to Helsingør, officially called Strandvejen, is also known as the “Danish Riviera” for its stylish houses and fine views across the Øresund to Sweden. Small protected harbors shelter working fishing boats and millionaires’ yachts alike, and converted marine buildings house fresh fish restaurants.

Related: Exploring North Zealand, Denmark

The Colorful Zealand in Denmark
While it’s true that the essence of North Zealand can be glimpsed in a day, it really warrants more time, either by an overnight stop at a charming Danish kro (inn) or by taking several day tours from Copenhagen.

The Colorful Zealand in Denmark
Biking holiday in Zealand. Photo: Ruby Rejser

Related: Coastal Hygge in Denmark

The Colorful Zealand in Denmark
Hundested beach in Zealand

From Copenhagen, drive north through fashionable Charlottenlund to quiet elegance nearby Ordrupgaard. It’s permanent collection of Danish and French paintings includes work by Matisse and Gauguin. The museum has recently incorporated the home of Finn Juhl, architect and furniture-designer extraordinaire.

Feature image (on top): Tisvildeleje, North Zealand (Photo: Klaus Bentzen)

The Colorful Zealand in Denmark, written by Tor Kjolberg

 

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Journalist, PR and marketing consultant Tor Kjolberg has several degrees in marketing management. He started out as a marketing manager in Scandinavian companies and his last engagement before going solo was as director in one of Norway’s largest corporations. Tor realized early on that writing engaging stories was more efficient and far cheaper than paying for ads. He wrote hundreds of articles on products and services offered by the companies he worked for. Thus, he was attuned to the fact that storytelling was his passion.