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A Royal Retreat: Fredensborg Slotshave

Discover Denmark's royal history and stunning baroque architecture in the serene Fredensborg Slotshave, a cultural gem blending art, nature, and tranquility near Copenhagen.

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Escape the city bustle and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Fredensborg Slotshave, one of Denmark's most magnificent garden complexes. This royal baroque garden offers a unique glimpse into Danish history, architecture, and landscape art. Originally designed in the 18th century in the pompous baroque style reminiscent of Versailles, the gardens were later partially transformed into a more romantic landscape with forests and lakes. Recent restorations have brought back the original baroque style, featuring long lime tree avenues radiating from the palace in a star shape, symbolizing the absolute power of the king. Stroll along these avenues, discover restored historical marble sculptures, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this cultural gem. The public areas of Fredensborg Slotshave are open year-round, offering a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Fredensborg Slotshave

Local tips

  • Visit in July to tour the otherwise private Reserved Garden and royal chambers; tickets must be purchased online in advance.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy by Esrum Sø, Denmark's second-largest lake, accessible from the gardens.
  • Explore 'Nordmandsdalen' to see the unique collection of sandstone sculptures depicting 18th-century Norwegian and Faroese people.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through the charming town of Fredensborg, known for its local shops and restaurants.
  • Dogs are allowed in the Slotshave, provided they are kept on a leash.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Copenhagen, take the train to Fredensborg Station. From Fredensborg Station, it's approximately a 20-minute walk to Fredensborg Slotshave. Exit the station, turn left onto the main road (Slotsgade), and follow the signs to Fredensborg Slotshave. The walk provides a glimpse of the local surroundings before reaching the Slotshave. A single train ticket from Copenhagen to Fredensborg costs approximately 40-75 DKK.

  • Bus

    Alternatively, several bus lines (e.g. 365R, 370R, 374) stop near Fredensborg Slot. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route from your location. From the bus stop 'Fredensborg Slot (Jernbanegade)' it is a short walk to the entrance of the Slotshave. A single bus ticket within the region costs approximately 24 DKK.

  • Driving

    If driving, enter 'Fredensborg Slot' into your GPS. Limited public parking is available on Slotsgade and Kejserensvej. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around 12 DKK per hour. Consider arriving early during peak season to secure a parking spot.

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Discover more about Fredensborg Slotshave

Fredensborg Slotshave, or Fredensborg Palace Gardens, stands as a testament to the grandeur of Danish royalty and the evolution of garden design. Located in the municipality of Fredensborg, approximately 30 kilometers north of Copenhagen, this expansive garden complex offers visitors a captivating blend of baroque formality and romantic naturalism. Originally commissioned by King Frederik IV in the early 18th century, Fredensborg Palace served as a 'lystslot,' a pleasure palace intended for relaxation and enjoyment of the countryside. The gardens, naturally, were designed to complement this purpose, reflecting the prevailing baroque aesthetic of the time. Johan Cornelius Krieger, a renowned garden architect, was tasked with creating a landscape that would rival the splendor of Versailles. Krieger's design featured a network of long, straight avenues radiating outwards from the palace in a star-shaped pattern. These avenues, lined with meticulously planted lime trees, symbolized the absolute power and control of the monarch. The layout also incorporated symmetrical parterres, formal flower beds, and precisely sculpted hedges, all contributing to the sense of order and harmony that defined the baroque style. In the latter half of the 18th century, under the reign of Frederik V, the gardens underwent a significant transformation. Inspired by the burgeoning Romantic movement, which emphasized naturalism and picturesque landscapes, portions of the gardens were redesigned to incorporate winding paths, artificial lakes, and wooded areas. This blending of styles created a unique and dynamic landscape, where formal baroque elements coexisted with more informal, naturalistic features. One of the most distinctive features of Fredensborg Slotshave is the 'Nordmandsdalen' (Valley of the Norsemen), a collection of seventy sandstone sculptures depicting Norwegian and Faroese peasants and fishermen. Commissioned by Frederik V, these life-sized figures offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of ordinary people in the 18th century Dano-Norwegian kingdom. The sculptures were originally carved by Johann Gottfried Grund based on smaller ivory figures created by Jørgen Christensen Garnaas, a postman from Bergen known for his wood carvings. Due to weathering, the sculptures were re-carved between 1981 and 2011 using a more durable type of sandstone. Throughout its history, Fredensborg Palace and its gardens have played an important role in the lives of the Danish royal family. The palace is often used as a summer residence and a venue for state visits and other official events. The gardens provide a tranquil setting for relaxation and recreation, as well as a backdrop for royal ceremonies and celebrations. In recent years, extensive restoration efforts have been undertaken to preserve and enhance the historical character of Fredensborg Slotshave. The main avenue, Brede Allé, has been replanted with new trees, and the parterres and sculptures have been carefully restored. These efforts have earned the gardens numerous accolades, including the European Heritage Award for exceptional preservation of cultural heritage. Today, Fredensborg Slotshave is open to the public year-round, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty and history of this remarkable landscape. Whether strolling along the grand avenues, admiring the intricate sculptures, or simply relaxing by the lake, a visit to Fredensborg Slotshave is sure to be a memorable experience. Beyond the formal gardens, visitors can explore the surrounding parkland, which encompasses forests, meadows, and lakes. Esrum Sø, Denmark's second-largest lake, borders the gardens and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. The nearby town of Fredensborg is also worth a visit, with its charming streets, historic buildings, and local shops and restaurants. Fredensborg Slotshave is more than just a beautiful garden; it is a living testament to Danish history, art, and culture. It is a place where visitors can connect with the past, appreciate the beauty of nature, and experience the tranquility of a royal retreat. Visiting Fredensborg Slotshave offers a unique opportunity to witness the seamless blend of historical grandeur and natural beauty. The meticulously restored baroque elements, such as the star-shaped avenues and symmetrical parterres, transport visitors back to the era of absolute monarchy, while the more naturalistic landscapes provide a serene and picturesque setting for relaxation and contemplation. The 'Nordmandsdalen' adds a distinctive cultural dimension, showcasing the lives of ordinary people in the 18th century kingdom. The gardens' rich history, combined with its ongoing role as a royal residence, creates a dynamic and engaging atmosphere that appeals to visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you are a history buff, a garden enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the city, Fredensborg Slotshave offers a truly unforgettable experience. Its blend of formal elegance and natural charm, combined with its rich cultural heritage, makes it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Denmark.

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