Helena: There’s something special about having a picnic with a castle view

1. Præstevang Forest & “Fantasy Island” at Brededam Lake

Take a walk through Præstevang Forest and visit “Fantasy Island” at Brededam Lake. There is something truly special about this area, especially when walking among the trees, listening to the birds, and discovering the old ruin from 1859 hidden by the lake. It almost feels like stepping into a fairytale in the middle of nature.

When I was in school, we often came here for sports classes and various activities. That’s why the place holds many fond memories for me. What I particularly love is that it feels tucked away from traffic and noise, making it easy to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

2. Burgers from Skovgrillen & a picnic at Frederiksborg Castle

During summer, it’s wonderful to pick up a burger from Skovgrillen or a pizza from Ninos Pizzeria/Big Mamma and bring it to Frederiksborg Castle to enjoy among the beautiful surroundings of the castle gardens and Baroque Garden.

There’s something truly special about having a picnic with a view of the castle. Personally, I love sitting by Rundedam Lake with a blanket, as it tends to be quieter and more peaceful there. Another lovely spot is the benches inside the Baroque Garden, where you can sit directly in front of the castle and enjoy the stunning view.

3. Lake Esrum, Sørup Ice Cream & Fredensborg Palace Gardens

Take a trip to Lake Esrum, either by bike or by car, and stop by Sørup Ice Cream & Coffee House for an ice cream before continuing down to the lake or through Fredensborg Palace Gardens.

It’s a place I’ve often visited with friends and family because it simply feels like summer. The route from Hillerød to Fredensborg is beautiful, especially by bike through the green countryside. I often buy an ice cream and sit by the lake or stroll through the palace gardens. The gardens are full of charming hidden corners, and in the heart of the grounds, you’ll find the beautiful sculpture collection known as The Valley of the Norsemen, which makes the place even more special.

4. Drive-in cinema in Lynge

I can highly recommend an evening at Lynge Drive-In Cinema. Watching a film on the big screen under the open sky from the comfort of your car is such a cosy experience, and it’s only a 20-minute drive from Hillerød Camping.

My best tip is to open the boot, fill it with duvets, pillows, and blankets, and bring plenty of snacks. That way, it becomes the perfect evening with friends or family

5. Ice cream from the pedestrian street (Vaffelhuset/Paradis Ice Cream) & a walk around Castle Lake

A lovely little activity in central Hillerød is to stroll through the pedestrian street and buy an ice cream from places such as Vaffelhuset or Paradis Ice Cream.

I enjoy taking it with me on a walk around Castle Lake while soaking up the atmosphere of the town. Alternatively, you can sit on one of the small bridges by the water and enjoy the view of Frederiksborg Castle. Several bridges are dotted around the lake, making it easy to find your own favourite spot. It’s a simple pleasure, but a truly enjoyable one.

6. Visit Lærkegården

Just outside Hillerød, in Skævinge, you’ll find the charming little café and farm shop, Lærkegården. Here, you can relax in peaceful rural surroundings, enjoy something delicious to eat and drink, and experience nature in a completely different way from the town centre. I think it’s a lovely little excursion whenever you need a break and want to get away from the city for a while.