Explore Three Castles and One Historic Abbey in North Zealand
Royal North Zealand is home to magnificent castles and a historic abbey – all within a short distance and deeply rooted in Denmark’s royal heritage.
A Royal Retreat
North Zealand has been a favourite retreat for Danish kings for centuries – a place for hunting, relaxation, and enjoyment. The royal presence is evident everywhere: from the National Park Royal North Zealand and the UNESCO-listed par force hunting landscape to the grand castles of Hillerød, Fredensborg, and Elsinore.
At the castles, Danish history comes to life. Here you can explore 500 years of stories about monarchy, absolute rule, and the path to democracy. And North Zealand remains royal to this day – each summer, the Danish Royal House opens the doors to their residence and private gardens at Fredensborg Palace.
Experience the largest Renaissance castle in the Nordic region. Walk in the halls of past Danish kings and queens - and feel the history of Denmark.
Explore the elegant gardens of Fredensborg Palace, experience royal interiors, and enjoy rare access to the Queen’s private garden in North Zealand.
Take a trip to Esrum Abbey and immerse yourself in the life of a monk in the ancient monastery. Explore the impressive buildings, the historical exhibition, and the beautiful monastery garden. Also, find inspiration for nature experiences in the Royal North Zealand National Park.
Kronborg is one of Northern Europe's finest Renaissance castles. It is world-renowned as Hamlet's and Shakespeare's castle and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Most Beautiful Castle Gardens
The castle gardens of North Zealand are peaceful green sanctuaries, open to the public and filled with artistic garden design and inspiration for anyone with a love for history and horticulture.
Frederiksborg Castle Gardens in Hillerød merge the rigid beauty of the Baroque garden with the free-spirited charm of the romantic landscape park. Discover history, nature, and art all in one place.
Experience the Middle Ages in North Zealand
Founded in 1151, Esrum Abbey once served as the spiritual centre of the Cistercian order in Denmark. Today, it functions as a vibrant cultural venue with exhibitions, lectures, concerts, and theatre. Æbelholt Monastery, established by Augustinian monks around 1175, also forms part of the region’s rich medieval heritage
Discover Søborg Castle Ruins and the restored Søborg Lake. Explore one of Denmark’s largest medieval fortresses and enjoy scenic trails around the lake.
A National Park for Nature and Culture Lovers
North Zealand offers a wealth of natural experiences – and two stand out: Royal North Zealand National Park and the magnificent par force hunting landscape, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The deep forests, large lakes and bogs, salt marshes and dunes invite you to a wealth of activities.
The Par Force Hunting Landscape is a UNESCO-World Heritage. Store Dyrehave (the Great Deer Park), Gribskov and Jægersborg Dyrehave (Jægersborg Deerpark) are designed as a stage for the great act unfolding when the scene for the absolute and powerful king engaged in his favourite type of hunting: The par force hunting.