Living the good life in Denmark’s whiskey belt

Denmark’s so-called ‘whiskey belt’ is Denmark’s golden coast. A world of beaches, luxury villas, green forests and attractions of life. In an egalitarian nation that loves its beer (think Carlsberg and Tuborg) wealthy residents of the region are said to prefer a shot of whiskey, hence the name. Stretching along some 40 kilometers of coastline north of Copenhagen, the region is a refreshing and easily accessible alternative to sightseeing in the city. Here are some of the highlights.

1. The route of the daisies

The 40-kilometer Strandvejen (beach road) from Copenhagen to Helsingor runs along the entire Whiskey Belt. It is also known as the route of the daisies. This is because it is marked with the ‘Margarita’ of Margarita II (popularly known as Queen Margarita), which indicates an area of ​​exceptional natural beauty. The road runs parallel to the narrow Strait of Oresund that separates Denmark from Sweden.

Although rental cars are available, it is just as easy to explore the route by train (the “coastline”) and by bicycle. Bicycles can be rented locally at a cheap price and can be taken on the trains.

2. Bellevue Beach

Possibly the most glamorous beach in Scandinavia, Bellevue is the place for the ‘beautiful people’ of Denmark to see and be seen every summer. Elegance and charm extend into the resort’s elegant architecture. Much of this was created in the mid-20th century by “Danish Modern” architect and designer Arne Jacobsen. Even the blue and white striped lifeguard towers and white beachside kiosks are his work. In the ‘Jacobsen Restaurant’ everything from the building, the interior design, the furniture and the cutlery bears its mark.

3. The deer park

Relax in this cool, dark, fairytale forest of majestic oak trees. In fact, even Bambi himself would feel at home here. The Dyrehaven (deer park) was formally the royal hunting ground. It was first fenced off by the King of Denmark in 1669. Today it is home to around 2,000 deer and a favorite spot for walkers and hikers. And be sure to enjoy traditional Danish cuisine in the old world restaurant ‘Peter Lieps Hus’, a former ranger hut.

4. Bakken amusement park

Nestled deep within Deer Park, the oldest carnival park in the world is a blaze of light and sound. This is where the inhabitants of Copenhagen relax and have fun in an obscene and burlesque atmosphere. The park has more than 100 attractions and amusements, food stalls, dancing, ice cream, cabaret, open

air restaurants and bars. Not to be missed!

5. Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

With charming gardens overlooking the sea towards Sweden, the Louisiana Museum houses one of the largest and finest collections of modern (20th century) art in the world. Much of the museum’s charm lies in its unique location. The spaciousness and relaxed outdoor atmosphere of the gardens make this a popular family destination. The Louisiana name comes from the property’s former owner’s three successive wives, each named Louise!

6. Karen Blixen Museum

Nestled in a 40 acre thickly planted park is the charming Rungstedland manor house. This is the former family home of Karen Blixen, famous romantic author of ‘Out of Africa’ and other works. Since his death in 1962, the estate has served as a museum and bird sanctuary.

The house is a reminder of the privileged elegance of a bygone era. The gardens remain as they were, a tribute to Blixen’s own horticultural talents and his vision of beauty.

7. Hamlet’s Castle

At the end of the Whiskey Belt, where the Baltic and the North Sea meet, is the magnificent Renaissance castle of Kronborg in Helsingor. It is actually better known as ‘Elsinore’ castle from William Shakespeare’s play ‘Hamlet – Prince of Denmark’. Hamlet himself is probably based on the Danish legend of Amleth detailed in the writings of the medieval Danish historian Saxo Grammaticus.

The best time to plan a visit to the Whiskey Belt is from mid-June to late August, when the weather (and beach life) is at its best and the landscape is greener. Out of season, it is still a pleasure to visit, with the benefit of fewer crowds.

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