Egeskov Castle & Funen's Castles
Funen is nicknamed the "Castle Island" — nowhere in Denmark are there more manors in close proximity. The absolute highlight is Egeskov Castle.
Egeskov Castle
Egeskov (1554) is one of the best-preserved Renaissance water castles in Europe. The fairy-tale castle stands on oak piles (Egeskov = "oak forest") in a lake and is surrounded by one of the most spectacular gardens in Europe: boxwood mazes, rose gardens, a fuchsia garden, and a huge treetop walkway. Additionally, there are vintage car museums, a playground, and a farm — perfect for families. Admission: 250 DKK (garden + museum), garden only: 200 DKK. Opening time: April–October.
Other Castles on Funen
- Valdemars Castle — On the island of Tåsinge south of Svendborg. Baroque castle by the water with a private beach, tea house, and castle museum. A romantic place often used for weddings.
- Broholm Castle — Historic manor near Gudme, now used as a boutique hotel. Near Gudme lies the largest gold treasure find of the Danish Iron Age.
- Hindsgavl Castle — Near Middelfart, at the narrow point of the Little Belt. Now a conference center with a beautiful park, where you can spot porpoises if you're lucky.
Funen's Gardens
Funen is Denmark's most fertile island: mild temperatures, fertile soils, and a centuries-old gardening tradition. In summer, the gardens of the manors bloom in full splendor. The Fynske Landsby (Funen Open-Air Museum) near Odense showcases traditional farms and gardens from the 18th–19th centuries. The farm shops (gårdbutikker) along the country roads sell fresh strawberries, apples, honey, and handmade cheese — Slow Food in its purest form.