Three Days in North Zealand – Castle Adventures, Abbey Tranquillity and Culinary Gems

Day 1 – Hillerød: Renaissance, Roses and Regional Cuisine

Your trip begins in the heart of North Zealand: Hillerød. Check in at the modern and welcoming Four Points Flex by Sheraton, where comfort and style meet in green surroundings close to the town centre.

Just a short walk away stands the majestic Frederiksborg Castle by the Castle Lake. One of Denmark’s most impressive Renaissance buildings, it houses the National History Museum with its opulent halls, art and portraits that elegantly tell the story of Danish history. Don’t miss the castle church and the beautifully restored Baroque garden with its symmetrical paths and fountains – perfect for a peaceful moment.

After your visit, enjoy a meal at Rabarbergaarden Slottet, a restaurant focused on sustainability and local produce set in atmospheric surroundings. Alternatively, Restaurant Krydderiet in the historic area around Best Western Hotel Hillerød serves refined dishes with Nordic inspiration.

Before the day ends, consider a short excursion into the surrounding Parforce Hunting Landscape, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can still sense the echoes of royal hunts in the geometric forest landscape.

Day 2 – Helsingør and Fredensborg: Drama, Royalty and Lakeside Idyllic Views

After breakfast, head towards the coast to historic Kronborg Castle in Helsingør. Once a strategic fortress controlling passage through the Øresund, the castle exudes grandeur and drama. Explore its halls and passageways and discover the legendary figure of Holger Danske resting in the casemates, ready to defend Denmark if needed.

In the afternoon, continue to the idyllic castle town of Fredensborg and check in at the traditional Fredensborg Store Kro, a place steeped in history and elegance just steps from Fredensborg Palace.

Enjoy dinner at the inn’s own restaurant overlooking the palace gardens – or walk down to the shores of Lake Esrum to Restaurant Skipperhuset, where delicious dishes are served with scenic views that are as memorable as the food itself.

Day 3 – Esrum Abbey: Reflection, Nature and a Last Taste of North Zealand

On your final day, visit the special spiritual and cultural haven of Esrum Abbey & Mill Farm, just a short drive from Fredensborg. Founded in the 12th century, the abbey once served as a centre for the Cistercian order in Denmark. Today it is a lively cultural and nature experience centre with interesting exhibitions, activities and a tranquil atmosphere.

Here you can delve into the history of monastic life, wander through the lush surroundings and enjoy a meal at Møllecaféen, which offers simple, delicious dishes and home-baked treats in a charming setting.

Before you head home, take a last stroll along Esrum Å or pause in the abbey’s herb garden – and perhaps pick up a souvenir from the abbey shop to remember your trip