Denmark

Just recently we went on a wonderful extended weekend get-a-way to Denmark. I have to admit, that we did not know much about Denmark, prior to planning and going on our adventure, but we are so glad we did. We truly enjoyed everything about this country, the people and their culture.

First let me just say, I have always heard Scandinavian's are the most beautiful people, and having just explored Denmark of the Scandinavian country's I already agree. WOW! Physically the people are just beautiful- but their hearts are just as gorgeous! They were all so kind and accommodating, it was a pleasure being there! Copenhagen is also the city of BIKES- there are over 35,000 bikes- a new, interesting 5 o'clock rush hour.

We first were in Copenhagen (København), exploring...

Our Canal Tour...
Took us through the canal's of the city and the views and experience were truly delightful! We even got to see the annual sandcastle displays that were unbelievable. Plus we viewed so many other things from the Royal Library, Famous Restaurants, The Opera House, The Playhouse, etc.

The Little Mermaid...
Hans Christian Andersen, who wrote numerous fairytales (The Ugly Duckling, The Little Mermaid, Princes and the Pea, etc) lived in Copenhagen and this statue is representation of his fairytales and what they mean to Copenhagen. She actually celebrated her 100th Birthday one day we were there!

The Royal Reception Rooms and Stables of Christiansborg...
Christiansborg Palace is still used today by the Queen for royal events (dinners, banquets, and for hosting of foreign ambassadors). We could tour the Throne Rooms, the Great Hall, royal halls, the Library, the Stables and the ruins. It had such a regal elegance, and although it was very ornate it was done very tastefully.

Nyhavn (New Harbour)...
This harbor at one time was known for sailors, drunkenness, and prostitution, but the government decided there was going to be a change in the 70's, and so ever since they have 'cleaned' it up and now it is a major tourist attraction. Truly a beautiful, happy area. It has loads of restaurants, coffee shops, and nice areas to just have some time to relax and enjoy the beauty.

Tivoli...
These gardens are in the middle of city center (literally directly across from Central Station). This area has elaborate gardens, over 40 restaurants, an amusement park, and lots more to do.

Strøget...
Copenhagen's shopping street. We also made sure to stop at a Danish bakery. We even were able to go to their most famous/popular bakery, Lagkagenhuset. All I have to say is amazing!

Amalienborg Palace (and the Marble Church)...
These are four houses that make up the palace. Once just very lovely houses, now all belong to the royal family. One of them the Queen and her husband lives in, the other is for her family (sister, etc) when they visit, the other is for her son (Prince and future King), his wife and four children live and the other is for guests.

Church of our Savior...
The baroque architecture was built in the late 1600's. The church encompasses an amazing organ, and has tower in which you can climb up to get a view of the city, but the girls did not think that was a good idea ;-)

Rosenborg Castle...
Is a gorgeous castle built in the early 1600's as a private Country palace for Christian IV, and is now a history museum. The Royal Treasury here houses the crown jewels (a favorite for the girls).

We took a trip up one day to Hillerød where Frederiksborg Castle is. This castle was built in the 17th century and houses the National Museum. We were a bit overwhelmed by the extremely ornate designs, pattern, sculptures and rooms. It was incredibly impressive and the lavish decoration were so over the top. One thing is for sure, their craftsmanship is impeccable. I have to admit, the gardens and grounds were just as impressive.

We also took a trip up to Helsingør to see Kronborg Castle. This is also known as Hamlet's Castle, as they believe Shakespeare based the castle in Hamlet off this one. The scene of the cannon's lining around the castle and looking across and seeing Sweden, was amazing! A simply gorgeous castle.

Another must see was the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, again on the coast overlooking Sweden. This art museum was a must on our list because our oldest loves art and it has so many wonderful things for children to enjoy! Plus it is the leading international museum for modern art.