Holger Danske – The Legendary Sleeping Guardian of Kronborg Castle
The legendary sleeping warrior beneath Kronborg Castle, waiting to awaken and defend Denmark in its darkest hour.
Deep beneath Kronborg Castle in Helsingør lies one of Denmark's most iconic symbols: a monumental concrete statue of Holger Danske, the legendary warrior who sleeps in the casemates until Denmark faces its darkest hour. According to Danish folklore, this mythical protector will awaken to defend the nation when danger threatens. The statue, originally cast in bronze in 1907 by sculptor Hans Peder Pedersen-Dan, has become a powerful emblem of Danish identity and resilience, immortalized in Hans Christian Andersen's 1846 fairy tale.
A brief summary to Holger Danske castillo copado
- Kronborg 1B, Helsingør, 3000, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Bring a flashlight or use your phone's light when exploring the casemates. The underground chambers are dimly lit, and the uneven stone floor can be slippery. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip.
- Allow 30–45 minutes to explore the casemates and locate the statue. While famous, Holger Danske is not prominently signed, so ask staff at the castle entrance for directions to the casemate entrance from the main courtyard.
- The casemates are cold and damp year-round. Bring a light jacket even in summer. The humidity is high, so be cautious on wet surfaces and watch for bats, which inhabit the underground passages.
- Visit Kronborg Castle's main attractions and exhibitions before or after exploring the casemates. The castle offers guided tours, a museum, and a church, making a full day visit worthwhile.
- The statue is most atmospheric when dramatically lit. Photography is permitted, but the concrete figure is relatively simple in artistic terms—focus on capturing the legendary atmosphere rather than expecting an ornate sculpture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train from Copenhagen
Direct regional trains depart Copenhagen Central Station approximately every 20 minutes, traveling north to Helsingør station. Journey time is 45–50 minutes. From Helsingør station, Kronborg Castle is a 10–15 minute walk downhill toward the waterfront, or a short taxi ride. Train tickets cost approximately 80–120 DKK per person. This is the most convenient and frequent option.
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Car from Copenhagen
Drive north from Copenhagen via the E4 motorway toward Helsingør, approximately 45 kilometers. Journey time is 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. Kronborg Castle has a dedicated car park with approximately 400 spaces; parking costs approximately 50–80 DKK for 2–4 hours. The castle address is Kronborg 1B, 3000 Helsingør.
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Bus from Copenhagen
Regional buses operate from Copenhagen to Helsingør, with journey times of 60–90 minutes depending on route and stops. Buses arrive at Helsingør bus station, from which Kronborg Castle is a 15–20 minute walk. Bus fares are approximately 80–120 DKK. Service frequency varies; check local schedules in advance.
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Guided tour from Copenhagen
Several tour operators offer half-day or full-day excursions from Copenhagen to Kronborg Castle, typically including transport, castle entry, and guided interpretation. Tours depart morning or afternoon and last 4–6 hours. Prices range from approximately 400–700 DKK per person, depending on inclusions and group size.
Holger Danske castillo copado location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Holger Danske castillo copado
A Legend Rooted in European Folklore
Holger Danske originated not as a Danish hero but as Ogier the Dane, a legendary knight from medieval French literature who served at Charlemagne's court. The character first appeared in the Chanson de Roland, one of the principal works of French medieval literature. However, the Danes adopted and transformed this foreign legend with such enthusiasm that it became fundamentally Danish in character and meaning. By the 16th century, Danish chronicles had rewritten Holger's story, giving him a new pedigree as Olaf, son of King Gøtrik, and anchoring him firmly within Danish cultural identity. Over centuries, the legend evolved into a powerful symbol of Danish nationalism and patriotism, eventually becoming as essential to Danish identity as any native myth.Hans Christian Andersen's Transformative Vision
While Holger Danske had circulated in Danish folklore for centuries before the 19th century, it was Hans Christian Andersen who fundamentally transformed the legend and secured its place in the national consciousness. In his 1846 fairy tale "Holger Danske," Andersen made a crucial creative decision: he placed the sleeping warrior in the casemates—the underground fortifications—beneath Kronborg Castle. This placement was inspired and deliberate. Andersen envisioned Holger resting in these subterranean chambers with his beard grown so long it merged with the marble table beneath him, waiting in eternal slumber. According to Andersen's version, an angel visits Holger every Christmas Eve to assure him that Denmark remains safe, allowing him to continue sleeping. However, should Denmark ever face grave peril, Holger will awaken, draw his sword, and rise to defend the fatherland. Andersen's narrative gave the ancient legend new emotional resonance and transformed Holger into a symbol of hope and protection that resonated deeply with Danish readers.Kronborg's Strategic Significance and Symbolic Alignment
The connection between Holger Danske and Kronborg Castle extends far beyond Andersen's literary imagination. Kronborg occupies one of Europe's most strategically vital locations: the narrowest point of the Øresund Strait, the channel separating Denmark from Sweden. For centuries, Danish kings controlled access to the Baltic Sea from this fortress, collecting tolls from every merchant ship that passed through these waters. This made Kronborg far more than a military stronghold; it was the physical embodiment of Danish sovereignty and national power. The castle's history dates to the 1420s, when King Eric VII built the original fortress called Krogen. In the 16th century, King Frederick II transformed the medieval stronghold into a magnificent Renaissance castle, complete with advanced bastions and fortifications designed to withstand modern artillery. The symbolic pairing of Holger Danske—the legendary protector of Denmark—with Kronborg—the fortress that historically defended the nation's economic and military interests—was therefore inevitable and profoundly meaningful. Holger became the perfect mythical guardian for a castle that had genuinely guarded Denmark's interests for centuries.The Statue's Journey and Material Evolution
The concrete figure visitors encounter today in Kronborg's casemates has an interesting history distinct from the legend itself. In 1907, the Hotel Marienlyst in Helsingør commissioned Danish sculptor Hans Peder Pedersen-Dan to create a bronze statue of Holger Danske. Rather than casting directly in bronze, Pedersen-Dan first created a large plaster model. This plaster version was placed in the casemates of Kronborg, where it was intended to be temporary. However, the plaster statue quickly captured public imagination and became far more famous than the bronze original, which remained outside the hotel. The plaster version endured in the damp, humid environment of the casemates for decades, gradually deteriorating from moisture exposure. In 1985, recognizing that the original plaster could not survive the relentless dampness, conservators replaced it with a concrete cast of the same design. This concrete version remains on display today, dramatically lit to emphasize its monumental presence in the underground chambers. The bronze statue, meanwhile, stood outside Hotel Marienlyst until 2013, when it was sold and relocated to the city of Skjern, where it continues to represent the legend in a different context.Holger Danske in Modern Danish Identity
During World War II, Holger Danske transcended folklore to become a living symbol of resistance. One of Denmark's largest resistance groups fighting against German occupation adopted the name Holger Danske, drawing inspiration from the legend's message of a protector who awakens to defend the nation in its darkest hour. These resistance fighters risked their lives to protect Danish values, innocent civilians, and the country's sovereignty—embodying the spirit of the sleeping warrior who would rise when danger threatened. This historical connection transformed Holger from a fairy-tale character into a symbol of real Danish courage and sacrifice. Today, every Danish child grows up knowing the story of Holger Danske, and the figure remains one of the most recognizable national symbols in Denmark. The legend persists as a powerful expression of Danish identity, resilience, and the belief that protection and strength lie dormant, ready to emerge when needed most.The Casemates: A Fortress Within a Fortress
The casemates where Holger rests are themselves historically significant. Built between 1574 and 1576 as part of Frederick II's Renaissance transformation of Kronborg, these underground fortifications were designed as a sophisticated military installation. The maze-like passages and chambers could shelter soldiers, horses, and provisions sufficient to sustain 1,000 men for up to six weeks. Small windows allowed defenders to fire cannons and other weapons while remaining protected. The damp, cold environment—with water running down stone walls and uneven "potato paving" worn smooth by centuries of footsteps—creates an atmospheric setting perfectly suited to the legend of a sleeping warrior. Visitors descending into these chambers experience not merely a tourist attraction but a genuine historical space that once served Denmark's defense, now housing a symbol of eternal vigilance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kronborg Castle Church
0.1 km
Renaissance sanctuary that miraculously survived fire, preserving royal religious heritage within Hamlet's legendary castle.
Helsingør harbour
0.4 km
Where maritime heritage meets Shakespeare's legacy at Denmark's gateway to Sweden.
Heracles and the Hydra
0.4 km
Mythological bronze warrior frozen in eternal combat on Helsingør's historic waterfront.
'Time of the shipyard' mural
0.6 km
A hyper-realistic tribute to Helsingør's legendary shipyard, painted by American master Garin Baker.
Odd Fellow Logerne Helsingør
0.6 km
A dynamic hub for contemporary and experimental art in the heart of Roskilde, showcasing thought-provoking exhibitions and interactive creative experiences.
'The Middle Ages and the Sound Dues' mural
0.6 km
A vivid gable mural that turns Helsingør’s medieval tolls and ship traffic into a richly detailed open-air history lesson in the heart of the old town.
Helsingor
0.8 km
Dynamic exhibitions, daring performances, and boundary-pushing installations in Roskilde’s historic royal palace—discover Denmark’s vibrant contemporary art scene.
Elsinore Cemetery
1.1 km
Historic burial ground where 16th-century roots meet artistic legacy in Denmark's literary heartland.
Helsingborg City Hall
4.5 km
A monumental red-brick city hall and coastal gateway, where neo-Gothic towers, National Romantic detail and civic stories overlook the Øresund in central Helsingborg.
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
9.2 km
Experience world-class modern art where architecture and nature meet in perfect harmony, offering breathtaking views and a serene escape just north of Copenhagen.
Hornbæk Batteri
10.6 km
WWII coastal fortress commanding the Øresund strait from Denmark's dramatic northern cliffs.
Observationsvärn nr 741
12.1 km
Explore the historical significance and scenic beauty of Observationsvärn nr 741 in Viken, a captivating landmark steeped in military history and stunning views.
Hornbaek beach
12.2 km
Discover Hornbæk Beach, the gem of the Danish Riviera, offering pristine sands, clear waters, and a charming seaside atmosphere perfect for relaxation and unforgettable summer memories.
Falkonergården
13.6 km
Explore the enchanting Falkonergården Zoo in Fredensborg, a captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families seeking adventure in nature.
Ven
14.8 km
Discover Ven: A Swedish island gem in the Öresund Strait, blending history, nature, and tranquility for an unforgettable escape between Sweden and Denmark, steeped in astronomical history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kronborg Castle
0.0 km
Hamlet’s legendary Elsinore: a UNESCO‑listed Renaissance fortress where royal grandeur, sea power and Danish myth meet above the Øresund Strait.
Kronborg Lighthouse
0.1 km
Step into early 20th-century rural Denmark at Flynderupgård Museet, where historic farm buildings, gardens, and animals bring local heritage to life in Espergærde.
Kronborg beach
0.2 km
Renaissance castle views meet sandy shores in this tranquil Danish coastal escape.
M/S Maritime Museum
0.3 km
Award‑winning underground museum in a historic dry dock, where cutting‑edge design and interactive exhibits bring Denmark’s maritime heritage vividly to life.
The Culture Yard
0.4 km
Glittering glass sails over an old shipyard, The Culture Yard fuses award‑winning library, stages and harbourfront café with unforgettable views of Kronborg Castle.
Fyrskibet nr. XVII
0.4 km
A 19th-century Danish lightship turned floating monument, Fyrskibet nr. XVII “Gedser Rev” brings Helsingør’s maritime and Cold War history vividly to life on the harbor.
Elsinore Public Museums
0.5 km
Three interconnected museums preserving 600 years of Elsinore's maritime, commercial, and industrial heritage in Denmark's historic city center.
Helsingør harbor promenade
0.5 km
A breezy waterfront ribbon along the Øresund, linking Helsingør’s working harbor, cultural quarter and Kronborg Castle with open sea views and everyday local life.
Wibroe Plads
0.5 km
A modest harbourfront square where merchant mansions, cobbled edges and Øresund views quietly reveal Helsingør’s long maritime story.
Dancer's fountain
0.5 km
A delicate bronze trio of Royal Danish Ballet dancers, Danserindebrønden is a quiet green-corner fountain where Helsingør’s everyday life meets timeless grace.
SOUL OF THE WALLS
0.6 km
Immersive bronze sculpture depicting Greek mythology at the gates of Kronborg Castle, offering a unique photo spot and cultural layer to Helsingør’s historic landscape.
St. Mary's Church
0.6 km
Historic public square at the heart of Roskilde, home to markets, festivals, and community life, framed by centuries-old buildings and vibrant Danish tradition.
'The maritime history' mural
0.6 km
A harbour gable transformed into a sweeping, collage-like tribute to 300 years of Danish seafaring, anchoring Helsingør’s shipyard era in vivid colour and form.
Helsingør Havne
0.6 km
Twin harbours beneath Kronborg Castle, where ferries, yachts and culture share a historic waterfront on the narrow Øresund Strait between Denmark and Sweden.
Arte callejero
0.6 km
Industrial-era Helsingør splashed across a gable wall: a bold shipyard mural that fuses street art style with the town’s maritime past on Allegade 7B.
Essential places to dine
M/S Café
0.3 km
Bright, maritime café in Helsingør’s dramatic dry dock museum, serving Nordic-inspired lunches, coffee and cakes with tranquil views over the former shipyard basin.
Spisehuset i Kulturværftet
0.4 km
Bright, harbourfront café-restaurant in Helsingør’s Culture Yard, serving organic-leaning Nordic comfort food, brunch and cakes with views over the busy Øresund.
HEY DARLING - Street Kitchen
0.4 km
Harbourfront street-food stall in Helsingør serving customizable gourmet meatball bowls and buns inside Værftets Madmarked, a short walk from Kronborg Castle.
The Fish Project
0.4 km
Exceptional hand-breaded fish and chips in a casual food market setting.
Suki Ramen
0.4 km
Relaxed Helsingør ramen stop serving generous bowls, colourful Asian comfort food and family-friendly warmth just a short walk from the harbor and Kronborg.
Arabi Food
0.4 km
Authentic Arabic street food in Helsingør's vibrant food market—fresh, affordable, and genuinely delicious.
Værftets Madmarked
0.5 km
Bustling shipyard food hall on Helsingør’s waterfront, where industrial heritage, global street food stalls and sociable long tables create an easygoing harbour hangout.
The black olive
0.5 km
Casual Greek street food served in Helsingør’s lively Værftets Madmarked, blending grilled gyros, warm pita and a buzzing shipyard‑hall atmosphere by the harbour.
Bistro Francophile
0.5 km
Cozy French-inspired bistro by Helsingør’s harborfront, pairing classic Gallic comfort dishes with a focused wine list and intimate, candlelit atmosphere.
Ofelia Bar
0.5 km
Stylish tapas bar and cocktail lounge offering inventive bites, curated drinks, and lively atmosphere—an essential stop for food and nightlife lovers in central Helsingør.
Café Kronborg
0.6 km
Waterfront seafood café where fresh fish, harbor views, and genuine hospitality meet in Helsingør.
The Copenhagener
0.6 km
Hearty smørrebrød, local Wiibroe beer and down‑to‑earth hygge in a tucked‑away Helsingør pub with a summery courtyard beer garden.
Restaurant Kaj
0.6 km
Modern Danish brasserie fare and generous seafood served in a light-filled dining room with sweeping Øresund views on Helsingør’s tranquil Nordhavn waterfront.
The Eatery of Jan & Christian
0.7 km
Contemporary Danish cooking in a welcoming neighbourhood setting on Helsingør's central street.
Borgerkroen
0.7 km
Historic Danish bodega where centuries of harbor culture meet smørrebrød and live music.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Souvenir shop
0.1 km
Curated Danish souvenirs and castle mementos within Kronborg's historic walls.
Butik hos Anna & Sofie
0.7 km
A cosy, Nordic-style boutique on Helsingør’s main street, blending women’s fashion, skincare and homewares in a warm, living-room-like setting.
Helsingør Kaffe og Thehus ApS
0.7 km
A cosy Helsingør specialty shop where the aroma of freshly roasted coffee, fine tea and Nordic delicacies fills a historic cobbled lane in the heart of the old town.
Ide Nyt
0.7 km
A contemporary women’s fashion boutique on lively Bjergegade, Ide Nyt blends Scandinavian style, quality brands and a calm atmosphere in Helsingør’s historic heart.
Helsingør Vinhandel
0.8 km
Denmark's premier wine and spirits specialist in historic Helsingør, where expertise meets passion.
Levende Lys
0.8 km
A cosy, colour-filled fashion and lifestyle boutique in the heart of Helsingør, blending contemporary women’s clothing with playful home décor and gift ideas.
Jørgensen & Co.
0.8 km
Exclusive curated fashion for discerning tastes in historic Helsingør's charming pedestrian district.
Butik Chaplin
0.8 km
A cosy Helsingør boutique brimming with handmade jewelry, retro interiors and knitwear, where every carefully chosen piece tells a small, colourful story.
Krystallen
0.8 km
Helsingør's premier crystal and mineral shop with expertly curated specimens and atmospheric presentation.
HL Mode A/S
0.8 km
Contemporary Danish fashion retailer offering curated brands and personalized styling in Helsingør's vibrant shopping district.
Østens Perle
0.8 km
Colourful Indian-inspired gift and handicraft shop in historic Helsingør, filled with hand-picked textiles, spiritual objects and cosy home décor since 2001.
Jutebar Denmark ApS
0.8 km
Small Helsingør boutique specialising in stylish, sustainable jute bags and gifts, blending Scandinavian design sensibility with everyday practicality.
Happy Gifts & Souvenirs
0.8 km
Compact, cheerful and central, Happy Gifts & Souvenirs is Helsingør’s easy stop for Danish-themed keepsakes and Kronborg-inspired mementos after a day of exploring.
Danmission Op Shop
0.8 km
Ethical treasure-hunting in Helsingør’s old town, where ever-changing second-hand finds support Danmission’s humanitarian work far beyond Denmark.
Vandkanten Ilse Jacobsen Outlet
0.8 km
Compact Scandinavian outlet where Ilse Jacobsen’s coastal rainwear, rubber boots and relaxed Nordic fashion meet reduced prices in central Helsingør.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Holger
0.6 km
Cozy cellar bodega on Helsingør’s Stengade, pouring inexpensive beers and spirits, with live music nights and a laid-back local crowd deep into the night.
Axelhus
0.7 km
Casual bodega and burger bar in Helsingør's old town, open late on weekends with beer and Danish comfort food.
Hold-An
0.7 km
Unfussy beer hall and local bar in central Helsingør, pouring cold brews, simple bites and everyday Danish hygge from late morning to late night.
Pitten Sport Bar
0.7 km
Straightforward sports, cold beer and local Helsingør character in a relaxed neighbourhood bar just a short stroll from the harbour and historic centre.
Axelhus Udeservering
0.7 km
Open-air corner bar on Bjergegade, where simple food, cold beer and Axeltorv’s street life come together in the historic heart of Helsingør.
Banana joe
0.7 km
Compact late-night bar above Helsingør’s nightlife strip, serving straightforward drinks, warm lighting and a relaxed local vibe long after the streets quieten.
Strandborg
0.7 km
Waterfront bar and restaurant where Helsingør's harbor views meet casual Nordic dining and evening social scene.
Helsingør Musikteater
0.9 km
Historic theatre and bar hosting live concerts, exhibitions, and dinner events in central Elsinore.
Head/Foam
1.1 km
Modern neighbourhood bar near Helsingør’s historic centre, pouring craft beer and cocktails from midday to the early hours in a lively, social setting.
Joker Bar
1.3 km
Relaxed Danish bar offering casual drinks and friendly conversation in historic Helsingør.
12`er Pubben
2.1 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bodega in Helsingør with billiards, sports on TV and cold beers, offering an authentic slice of Danish local bar life.
Gefion Bodega
2.1 km
Unpretentious neighbourhood bar in Helsingør offering classic Danish bodega atmosphere, simple drinks and a relaxed glimpse into everyday local life.
Kardusen
3.7 km
Casual wine bar in central Helsingør offering relaxed evenings and accessible pricing.
Oddies Beach Bar
18.0 km
Relaxed beach bar on the sand at Rungsted Havn, blending Nordic coastal charm with a hint of tropical island mood and sweeping Øresund sea views.
Jernstangen
23.0 km
Old-school Hillerød pub opposite the station, with billiards, darts, dice games and live music nights in a laid‑back, locals-first atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Retro
0.7 km
High-energy weekend nightclub in central Helsingør, mixing big-room beats, bright lights and a young crowd in what calls itself the largest club north of Copenhagen.
Rustik
1.1 km
Helsingør's premier weekend nightclub with craft cocktails and high-energy dancing until dawn.
Walther's grillkylling og svuppeklub
5.3 km
Intimate neighborhood nightclub in Helsingør with loud music, simple drinks, and a playful local vibe behind an unassuming facade on Rødegårdsvej.
Socialz
23.3 km
Intimate cocktail bar and nightclub in the heart of Hillerød, blending shisha lounge vibes, late-night DJ sets and a compact dance floor on lively Slotsgade.
SIGURD CPH
37.5 km
Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at SIGURD CPH, where vibrant dancing, fine wines, and pachinko gaming come together for an unforgettable experience.
Afrobeat Palace Nightclub
38.1 km
Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
RUST Natklub
38.9 km
Discover the pulsating heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at RUST Natklub, where eclectic beats and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.
Temple Bar
39.1 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.
Culture Box
39.3 km
Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.
Falafelberg
39.6 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.
Mini Bar
39.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Mirage
39.9 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Arch
39.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Zoo
39.9 km
Intimate late-night nightclub on Sværtegade in Copenhagen’s historic center, blending a compact dance floor, DJ-driven beats and a casual, social bar atmosphere.
Moon Club
39.9 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Adventurous
- Unique
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
