Experiencing a real-life fairytale at Kokkedal Castle
Although there’s much to explore in Copenhagen’s culture-rich districts (the city, Christiana, Frederiksberg), the Danish Riviera offers a real rural retreat.
Just a 45-minute train (or drive) will see you arrive at the beautiful grounds of Kokkedal Castle, where you can eat, sleep and relax just like a royal. It’s one of only a few ultra-luxe hotels in Copenhagen and certainly worthy of the short journey.
As I arrived at the castle grounds, it was a welcoming change to the hustle and bustle of the city centre. With acres of parkland to discover by foot or bike and a long stretch of coastline to explore you’ll feel instantly at ease. On a clear day, you might even spot neighbouring Sweden in the distance. Bliss.
Inside this ‘resorted’ 1746 castle, opulent crystal chandeliers hang from the sky-high ceilings and the walls of the narrow corridors are lined with large, ornate mirrors. Despite its grand persona, the staff of Kokkedal are extremely warm and personable. No request is too much. One receptionist even drove to the local shop in an attempt to find a travel adapter, as I’d misplaced mine.
My suite (the best in the house) had breathtaking views of the grounds. The hotel offers annexe rooms in the converted lodge, accessible by an underground tunnel. My suite included a deluxe living area with glamorous furnishings and a king-size bed with luxurious linens and a decorative headboard. The grand bathroom had his and hers sinks, fluffy robes, premium skincare treats and an impressive roll top bath. Overall, the room exuded charm and there are lots of nooks and crannies to discover such as secret compartments and intriguing key-locked drawers.
In the evening I dined at the Cellar Restaurant. Based in the restored cellar, they serve a fine A La Carte menu with a passionate service to boot. The menu is based on in-season ingredients, rich flavours and careful craftsmanship. Grilled white asparagus with aged ham sourced from a local farmer impressed me for starters, while a slow-cooked steak strip with a rich red wine sauce hit home for mains. It was the perfect meal to complement the magical setting, with vaulted ceilings and candlelight creating a stylish, comfortable atmosphere. I finished with cocktails in the swish library bar, with the highly-skilled mixologist behind the bar.
There’s plenty to do at the castle. When you’re not refining your swing on the 18-hole golf course or pampering yourself in the spa, there’s a range of free, guided activities to enjoy, like yoga and road cycling.
A stay at Kokkedel Castle is genuinely the real-life fairytale.
For more information visit: www.kokkedalslotcopenhagen.dk/en
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