Gavnø Slot og Park
Romantic rococo castle on the Island of Flowers, where art-filled halls, tulip gardens, chapel and treetop adventures share a historic Danish estate.
Set on a small island near Næstved, Gavnø Slot og Park is a pastel‑yellow rococo castle wrapped in expansive flower gardens, ancient trees and calm waterways. Once a medieval stronghold and later a convent for noblewomen, it now combines historic interiors, a renowned private art collection, a chapel, tulip-filled grounds and playful family attractions including a treetop adventure course and pirate‑themed playground, all within a relaxed country‑estate setting.
A brief summary to Gavnø Slot og Park
- Gavnø 9, Næstved, 4700, DK
- +4555700200
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Plan at least half a day if you want to see both the castle interiors and the full extent of the gardens, especially during tulip season when photo stops take extra time.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for lawns and gravel paths; parts of the park and woodland areas can be soft underfoot after rain.
- Check seasonal event dates such as the tulip festival or Christmas market in advance; these can change the atmosphere and may affect how busy the estate feels.
- If visiting with children, set aside time for the treetop adventure and playground area, as these are in a separate corner of the park away from the main castle.
- Dogs are typically allowed on a leash in the gardens but not inside the castle; bring waste bags and plan your route if rotating pet minding between companions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Food Options
- Lockers
Getting There
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Car from Næstved center
Driving from central Næstved to Gavnø Slot typically takes 10–15 minutes using local roads across the short bridge to the island. The route is straightforward and well signposted. Parking is available near the entrance, but spaces can fill up around major events such as the tulip festival and Christmas market. Expect to pay a standard entrance fee to the castle and park on arrival; adult tickets are usually in the range of 160–220 DKK depending on season and inclusions.
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Bicycle from Næstved
Cycling from Næstved to Gavnø is a pleasant option, taking around 25–40 minutes each way along minor roads through flat countryside. The terrain is mostly easy, but wind from the fjord can make the ride feel longer. Bring lights in shoulder seasons when daylight is shorter. There is no extra charge for bringing a bicycle onto the island, but you will still need to pay the standard entrance fee at the ticket office.
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Taxi from Næstved Station
From Næstved railway station you can take a taxi directly to Gavnø Slot, with journey times usually around 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. This is the most convenient option if you are arriving by train and prefer to avoid changing to local buses. Typical fares are in the region of 150–250 DKK one way, varying with time of day and taxi company. Confirm the return pickup time in advance during busy event days, when demand can increase.
Gavnø Slot og Park location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Gavnø Slot og Park
Rococo castle on a quiet Danish island
Gavnø Slot rises in soft yellow hues above the water meadows of a small island just outside Næstved, its reflection shimmering in the surrounding channels. The present castle is one of Denmark’s finest examples of rococo architecture, a graceful contrast to the more austere medieval stronghold that once stood here. Its low, elongated wings and red-tiled roofs give it an almost theatrical presence when you first glimpse it from the approach bridge. Inside, the mood shifts from fairy-tale exterior to richly detailed historic interiors. Ornate stucco ceilings, painted panels and period furniture from the 18th century create the sense of walking through a lived-in country residence rather than a formal state palace. The Great Dining Room, with its long table and glittering chandeliers, still serves as a backdrop for special events, preserving the feeling of an active noble estate.From pirate stronghold to noble convent
The island’s story stretches back to the Middle Ages, when a fortified residence here was associated with seafaring lords who controlled traffic through the local fjord. In the late 14th century Queen Margrethe I acquired Gavnø and transformed the site from a rough stronghold into a convent for unmarried women of noble birth. For centuries, the castle was a secluded world where aristocratic women lived, worshipped in the adjacent chapel and managed the surrounding lands. Over time, the convent evolved into a private estate at the heart of local cultural life. Today the castle houses one of Scandinavia’s largest privately owned painting collections, with portraits, maritime scenes and historical works lining room after room. Walking the corridors offers a visual timeline of changing fashions, expressions and artistic styles as you pass from dark, solemn canvases to lighter, more intimate works.Gardens that celebrate flowers and seasons
Gavnø is often called the Island of Flowers, and the castle park more than justifies the name. In spring, vast beds of tulips create rivers of colour that sweep around lawns and along pathways, forming one of Denmark’s largest tulip displays. Later in the year the palette shifts to daffodils, rhododendrons, roses and late-summer perennials, so the gardens remain attractive well beyond the first burst of bulbs. The layout blends formal elements with a relaxed, natural feel. A small stream winds through parts of the park, crossed by wooden bridges and framed by hostas and water plants. Quiet corners hide benches beside a frog pond or under mature trees, inviting unhurried pauses. Farther out, open lawns and a rose labyrinth provide space for slow circuits with wide views of the castle façade and surrounding woodland.Chapel, art and a working estate
Adjacent to the main building, the castle chapel preserves the atmosphere of Gavnø’s convent period, with its own set of artworks, carved details and memorials. Stepping inside connects the estate’s spiritual history with its more worldly art collection and gardens outside. Guided tours are sometimes available, adding historical anecdotes and context to the rooms and the families who shaped them. Despite its historical weight, Gavnø still functions as an active estate. Brewing traditions live on in a small castle brewery, and parts of the grounds host seasonal events such as flower celebrations and Christmas markets. The combination of historic structures, cultivated landscape and contemporary use gives the site a layered character: it feels both like a preserved monument and a place that continues to adapt.Family-friendly adventures among trees and turrets
Beyond paintings and flower beds, Gavnø has developed a distinctly playful side. A treetop adventure course invites visitors to move through the canopy on suspended elements and ziplines, offering a different perspective on the estate. Nearby, a pirate-themed nature playground echoes the island’s medieval tales of seafaring lords, turning history into imaginative play for children. Scattered through the park are small discovery points, treasure-hunt trails and activity zones that encourage younger visitors to explore. At the same time, cafés and seating areas allow those less inclined to climb and run to linger over coffee or ice cream while enjoying views of lawns and water. The result is a rare combination: a historic castle environment that comfortably accommodates both quiet garden strolls and energetic family outings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hans-Jørgen Færks Plads
2.9 km
Medieval market town square where Danish history, culture, and modern commerce converge in southern Zealand.
Genforeningssten i Saltø Skov
4.1 km
A granite memorial stone marking Denmark's 1920 reunification with South Jutland, standing at a forest crossroads near Næstved.
Visit Sydsjælland & Møn
5.1 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Sydsjælland & Møn, a unique Danish destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Næstved Station
5.4 km
Explore the evolution of Danish and international design at Copenhagen's historic Designmuseum Danmark.
Genforeningssten i Næstelsø
8.0 km
Experience the vibrant history and charm of Copenhagen's iconic Nyhavn waterfront.
Mindesten for Hans Tausen
32.1 km
A modest granite stone in a quiet Slagelse green, marking the birthplace of Denmark’s Lutheran Reformation story at the former Antvorskov monastery.
Gammeltorv
33.3 km
Copenhagen's 12th-century heart: Renaissance fountain, Neoclassical facades, and Strøget buzz in one timeless square.
Vandtrappen
33.5 km
A small yet compelling ceramic water sculpture in Slagelse’s Rosengården, where stepped cascades and quiet sound turn an everyday square into a contemplative urban pause.
Rytterstatue af Christian IX
33.5 km
Bronze king on horseback surveys Slagelse from Schweizerpladsen—a citizen-honored tribute to Christian IX's enduring reign, sculpted with poised majesty.
Brombaergaarden B&B
34.0 km
Experience the charm of rural Denmark at Brombaergaarden B&B, a 150-year-old organic farm offering a peaceful retreat, Nordic art, and culinary delights near Lolland-Falster's attractions.
Pangea Park
34.1 km
Experience global wildlife up-close in Zealand’s countryside, with interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and a strong conservation focus at Pangea Park near Bjæverskov.
Kong Slags Dysse
34.8 km
Ancient stone burial mound with panoramic views, echoing Denmark's Neolithic heritage.
Nyord
34.9 km
Discover Nyord: A car-free Danish island offering tranquil nature, rich maritime history, and a charming village atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful escape and stargazing.
Jættestuen Hulehøj
36.2 km
Ancient Neolithic dolmen revealing 5,000 years of Scandinavian burial traditions and megalithic engineering.
The Viking Fortress Trelleborg
36.9 km
Denmark's premier Viking ring fortress: Harald Bluetooth's circular bastion of power, UNESCO-listed amid Zealand's scenic valleys.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gavnø castle
0.3 km
Rococo castle, flower-filled island gardens and Scandinavia’s largest private art collection, all wrapped into a relaxed day out near Næstved.
Stenbæksholm Bålplads
2.3 km
A simple campfire spot on the edge of Næstved Flyveplads, where open skies, quiet fields and a crackling fire create a relaxed slice of Danish outdoor life.
M/S Friheden ApS
3.0 km
Slow, scenic cruises on a cosy canal boat from Næstved Harbour, combining gentle river views with relaxed café-style dining on the water.
Borgnakke Skov
3.7 km
Light-filled beech forest with fjord views, ancient burial mounds and a historic hilltop, offering a calm, low-key nature escape just outside Næstved.
Rundfart Friheden
4.2 km
Slow, scenic cruises from Næstved Harbour through canal and fjord to the coast, blending classic Danish boat charm with relaxed waterfront views and dining.
Mindesten for A. M. Kristensen
4.5 km
Explore Borgnakke Skov: A historic Danish forest with panoramic fjord views and ancient burial mounds.
Næstved Automobil, Nostalgi og Samler museum .
4.6 km
Step into 3,400 m² of classic cars, two‑wheelers and 1950s shopfronts at Næstved’s nostalgic automobile museum on the edge of South Zealand.
Slagkilden
4.8 km
A modest memorial stone on Næstved’s edge, Slagkilden turns a former spring and a golden wedding in 1864 into a quiet pause of history in the greenery.
Museum Sydøstdanmark
4.9 km
Regional museum in Næstved’s historic heart, weaving archaeology, medieval town life and design heritage into an accessible story of South-East Zealand.
Boderne
4.9 km
Medieval merchants’ stalls reborn as an intimate showcase of Kähler ceramics, Holmegaard glass and South Zealand craftsmanship in the heart of old Næstved.
The Violin Girl
5.0 km
A life-size bronze musician bringing a moment of quiet poetry to Næstved’s busy Købmagergade, where everyday city life meets intimate public art.
Monument for Krigen i 1864 - Næstved
5.0 km
A modest town-centre memorial where Næstved quietly honours its fallen soldiers from the wars of 1848–50 and 1864 amid a pocket of greenery off Østergade.
NæstvedArkiverne
5.1 km
Explore the documentary heart of Næstved, where municipal records, local stories and digital archives preserve centuries of South Zealand’s everyday history.
Mindesten for Peder Bodilsen
5.2 km
Historic military barracks turned bustling cultural center, Grønnegades Kaserne Kulturcenter is Næstved’s hub for arts, music, theater, and creative events all year round.
Næstved Museum
5.2 km
Compact town museum in historic Næstved, tracing South Zealand’s journey from archaeological finds and medieval streets to Holmegaard glass and modern everyday life.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Fjord
2.9 km
Casual Danish dining with fjord and fairway views on the edge of Næstved, where hearty buffets and a broad terrace make the landscape part of every meal.
Ali Baba's Grill
3.6 km
Straightforward fast food on Odensevej in Næstved, serving generous grilled plates, pizzas and takeaway classics in a relaxed, no-fuss setting.
Cafe Pyramiden
3.6 km
Næstved's welcoming brasserie where quality food, friendly service, and relaxed sophistication meet daily.
Restaurant Mona Lisa
3.6 km
Hearty plates, the signature Colorado Steak and roomy function spaces make this classic neighborhood restaurant a relaxed gathering place in Næstved.
Stacy's Diner Næstved
3.9 km
A larger-than-life 1950s American diner in Næstved, where you can eat burgers in a school bus or Cadillac amid neon lights, chrome and rock’n’roll flair.
Restaurant De Hvide Svaner
4.0 km
Traditional thatched Danish inn by Karrebæksminde’s fjord, serving hearty buffets and classic cuisine in cozy dining rooms and spacious banqueting halls.
Ban Nuk
4.1 km
Neighbourhood Thai take‑away in Næstved, serving comforting curries, stir‑fries and noodles from a small kitchen designed for quick, affordable pick‑up.
Restaurant Peking
4.3 km
Hearty Chinese and Mongolian buffet dining in Næstved, pairing generous all‑you‑can‑eat spreads with a relaxed, family‑friendly atmosphere and handy takeaway.
Madkassen
4.9 km
Relaxed Danish comfort food by the bridge in Karrebæksminde, with harbour views, hearty portions and a laid-back seaside atmosphere ideal for casual meals.
Hotel Kirstine
4.9 km
Half-timbered charm, leafy courtyards and Nordic comfort dining in the historic heart of Næstved, blending characterful rooms with a cozy wellness retreat.
Ichiban Sushi
5.0 km
All-you-can-eat Japanese sushi in central Næstved with creative rolls and modern app-based ordering.
Restaurant Vinhuskælderen
5.0 km
Intimate dinners in a centuries-old vaulted cellar beneath Hotel Vinhuset, where candlelight, stone arches and seasonal French-inspired cuisine meet in central Næstved.
Restaurant Bytinget
5.0 km
Historic ground-floor dining with views of Næstved's medieval square, serving breakfast and seasonal Danish cuisine.
Hotel Vinhuset
5.0 km
Historic town hotel and cellar restaurant on Næstved’s church square, blending centuries-old architecture, seasonal partly organic cuisine and modern, eco-certified comfort.
Den Grimme Ælling
5.0 km
Cosy, fairy-tale–named restaurant in central Næstved, serving comforting Danish-style fare in a relaxed, town-centre setting ideal for unhurried daytime meals.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Parkens Butikcenter
3.6 km
Compact 1960s neighborhood shopping center in Sct. Jørgens Park, offering everyday Danish life, essential shops and simple eateries in suburban Næstved.
Næstved Vinhandel
3.6 km
Atmospheric neighbourhood wine shop in Sct. Jørgens Park, pairing a broad bottle selection with tastings, gourmet treats and knowledgeable, personal guidance.
Bigdollar
3.9 km
Big, bright and budget-friendly, Bigdollar Næstved is a warehouse-style discount store packed with everyday essentials, quirky finds and seasonal deals under one roof.
AJ Clothing
4.1 km
Contemporary fashion boutique offering curated apparel and accessories in central Næstved.
Kop & Kande Næstved
4.3 km
Compact Danish homeware store on Kanalvej in Næstved, combining practical kitchen gear, stylish tableware and thoughtful gifts in a bright, well‑organised space.
MyHeaven
4.4 km
Curated women's fashion in the heart of Næstved's vibrant retail district.
cahécahé
4.5 km
Intimate Danish fashion boutique in a local Næstved neighbourhood, offering curated everyday style, calm browsing and quietly confident wardrobe staples.
The Green Shop Ltd.
4.7 km
Harbour-side florist blending creative Danish floristry, seasonal blooms and cozy Nordic decor in a compact, light-filled shop in Næstved.
Kelz0r Næstved
5.0 km
Specialist trading card and collectibles shop in Næstved's town center serving enthusiasts and collectors.
Antikvariatet I Næstved v/Steffen Jensen
5.0 km
South Zealand's premier antiquarian bookshop with 10,000 rare volumes and expert guidance.
Linie 2
5.0 km
A compact, Scandinavian-style clothing boutique in the heart of Næstved, offering curated, wearable fashion in a calm, personal shopping atmosphere.
TIPPY NÆSTVED
5.1 km
Contemporary women's fashion in the heart of Næstved's downtown shopping district.
A-Antik.dk
5.1 km
A compact Næstved antique shop where Danish porcelain, glass and vintage homeware bring everyday design history to life on a quietly curated high-street shelf.
Marie-Lou Næstved
5.1 km
Intimate women’s fashion boutique in central Næstved, blending Scandinavian style, curated brands and a relaxed, personal shopping experience on Torvestræde.
World Of Danish Design Aps
5.1 km
A compact, curated showroom in central Næstved dedicated to classic and contemporary Danish furniture, blending vintage originals with thoughtfully chosen new design.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pub Dyssen
3.1 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bar in Næstved where Danish hygge, cold beer, and local conversation come together in a simple, welcoming setting.
5'eren
4.2 km
Laid-back neighborhood beer hall in Næstved, where cold beer, conversation and local charm matter more than cocktails or design.
Humle Ølbar
5.0 km
Cosy craft beer bar in central Næstved, pairing a rotating selection of Danish and international brews with intimate, hygge‑rich surroundings.
La Boutique
5.0 km
Elegant wine bar and bottle shop on Næstved’s Axeltorv, where curated wines, fine spirits and gourmet details turn a simple drink into a small celebration.
Sluk Efter
5.0 km
Unpretentious local pub on Kindhestegade in central Næstved, pouring cold beers and simple drinks in a cozy, social setting from midday to late night.
Underhuset
5.1 km
A classic Danish bodega on Næstved’s Axeltorv, blending cosy wood-panel charm, cold beer and local live music into a friendly town-square living room.
Champagne Riget
5.1 km
Næstved's premier champagne bar where curated bubbles meet refined gastronomy in elegant surroundings.
Bar z
5.1 km
Cosy late-night bar in central Næstved, blending easygoing drinks, music and a compact club vibe on weekend evenings along historic Ramsherred.
The Old Irish Pub
5.1 km
Authentic Irish pub energy in central Næstved, open late Friday and Saturday with live music and draught beer.
Step Inn I / S
5.1 km
Long‑running Irish pub in central Næstved, blending cosy wooden interiors, sociable pints and late‑night weekend vibes on historic Ramsherred.
Cheers
5.1 km
Næstved's cozy social hub where genuine Danish hospitality meets lively evening atmosphere.
Landsby Pubben
5.2 km
A classic Næstved "værtshus" with cold beer, billiards and a lived-in charm that turns a simple drink into a slice of local everyday life.
The Beach
5.2 km
Næstved's vibrant karaoke bar where everyone becomes a star in a tropical-themed celebration of music and community.
Sct. Jørgens Jazzklub
5.3 km
Volunteer-run jazz club in Næstved’s historic barracks courtyard, hosting intimate live concerts in the cosy Musikstalden hall at Grønnegades Kaserne Kulturcenter.
Birk´s Bar
5.3 km
Næstved's authentic neighborhood pub where community, billiards, and genuine hospitality thrive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
