Schackenborg Castle: Royal Retreat on the Danish-German Border
A historic Danish Baroque castle in Tønder, seamlessly blending royal heritage, elegant gardens, and modern-day royal presence near the Danish-German border.
Schackenborg Castle in Tønder seamlessly combines centuries of noble Danish heritage with living royal tradition. Set amidst serene parklands and cobblestone courtyards, this 17th-century castle once belonged to the influential Schack family and is today the residence of Prince Joachim of Denmark. Visitors are drawn to its stately Baroque architecture, elegant interiors, and immaculately landscaped gardens. Guided tours immerse guests in tales of Danish aristocracy, historic alliances, and the castle’s ongoing role as both a private royal residence and a beacon of South Jutland’s unique cross-border culture.
A brief summary to Mandø Centret
- Vestervej 1, Ribe, 6760, DK
- +4575445107
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check tour dates and timings online—ahead reservations are recommended for seasonal guided tours, which often sell out.
- Parts of the castle remain a private royal residence, so access is guided and limited to selected public rooms and gardens.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through Tønder’s historic center, known for handicraft shops and local eateries.
- Parking is available onsite, but during special events and high season, nearby lots fill quickly—public transport is recommended.
- The castle is more atmospheric in spring and summer when gardens are in full bloom and outdoor events are frequent.
Getting There
-
Car
From Rømø, travelers will cross the dam linking the island to the mainland, enjoying open views over the Wadden Sea before reaching the flatter green farmlands of South Jutland. The drive to Tønder typically takes 40–55 minutes. Once in Tønder, follow signs for the castle district—Schackenborg is set at the tranquil edge of town, easily identifiable by its tower and stately grounds. Parking is available adjacent to the castle for a small hourly fee (around DKK 15–20 per hour); note that during local festivals or royal events, spaces can become limited.
-
Public Transport
Departing from Rømø’s ferry or bus connections, visitors travel to Skærbæk and connect onwards by regional bus or train to Tønder. The journey usually takes between 1.5 and 2 hours in total, with a standard adult fare from DKK 80–120. From Tønder’s central station, it’s a ~15–20-minute pleasant walk towards the castle gates, passing through the historic heart of town and along tree-lined avenues.
-
Bicycle
Cycle enthusiasts can follow scenic routes from Rømø, using well-marked trails across the causeway and through peaceful villages to Tønder—a rewarding journey of approximately 75–90 minutes, depending on conditions. Secure bicycle parking and water refill stations are available near the castle entrance.
-
Taxi
Taxis from Rømø’s main hubs to Schackenborg Castle provide a comfortable, direct option, usually costing DKK 550–750 for the trip, with travel times of about 40–55 minutes. Taxis can drop visitors at the main entrance for convenient access.
Discover more about Mandø Centret
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hannes Hus
9.3 km
Experience authentic 19th-century island life at Hannes Hus, a perfectly preserved seafarer’s home and local heritage museum in the heart of Sønderho, Fanø.
Æ Kåver
9.3 km
Historic coastal monument on Fanø, celebrating the island’s maritime past and offering panoramic island views—an unmissable stop for heritage and scenery lovers.
Fanø Free Folk Festival
9.4 km
Experience the fusion of traditional and experimental folk music in the historic village of Sønderho on Fanø Island.
Sønderho Church
9.5 km
A historic 18th-century Lutheran church in Sønderho, renowned for its maritime heritage, delicate model ships, striking altar, and tranquil island atmosphere.
Kammerslusen Ribe
11.5 km
Discover Copenhagen's Black Diamond: A fusion of modern architecture and cultural heritage on the waterfront.
Bunker und Bunkertour Römö
13.6 km
Explore Rømø's WWII bunkers in Tvismark Plantation for a unique historical adventure.
Bunker
13.7 km
Discover Rømø’s atmospheric WWII bunkers in Tvismark Plantage, where windswept dunes meet haunting wartime history on Denmark’s rugged Wadden Sea island.
Famous Rømø Beach
13.9 km
Explore the breathtaking expanse of Famous Rømø Beach—Denmark’s largest sandy beach and a haven for outdoor fun, scenic drives, and tidal wonders.
Lakolk
14.6 km
Vast sandy expanse on Rømø's western coast, offering iconic drive-on beach access, dramatic dune landscapes, kite-friendly winds, and authentic Danish seaside energy.
Queen Dagmar of Bohemia
15.3 km
Explore the neoclassical masterpieces of Bertel Thorvaldsen in Copenhagen's historic heart.
Gamle Redningsstation
18.1 km
Experience Rømø’s maritime past at the historic Gamle Redningsstation, a lifeboat station that has watched over generations of sailors off Denmark’s rugged west coast.
Rindby Strand
18.9 km
Wild, sandy expanse on Fanø’s west coast renowned for kite flying, gentle tides, unique drive-on access, and the elemental beauty of North Sea sunsets.
Rømø Lege- & Labyrintpark
20.5 km
Discover a world of family fun at Rømø Lege- & Labyrintpark: mazes, games, and outdoor adventures await on the beautiful island of Rømø, creating unforgettable memories for all ages.
The Beach on Fanø
20.9 km
Vast, iconic North Sea beach spanning Fanø’s coastline, famed for its wild dunes, kite festivals, wide sands, and unique Danish maritime character.
Danland Fanø
20.9 km
Family-friendly seaside holiday resort nestled among Fanø's dunes, offering direct access to wide beaches, indoor pools, wellness options, and the spirit of Danish island living.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mandø Museum
0.1 km
Explore Schackenborg Castle: A Baroque Jewel in Denmark's Historic Landscape
stormflodssøjlen mandø
0.2 km
Experience Denmark's Viking heritage through immersive exhibits, interactive workshops, and live demonstrations at Vikingborg in Ribe.
Mandø Mølle
0.5 km
Discover Schackenborg Castle near Tønder—inspiring Baroque architecture, royal history, peaceful gardens, and cultural events just a day trip from Rømø.
Wadden Sea National Park
4.4 km
Historic stone bridge at the heart of West Jutland’s nature preserves, offering a tranquil escape and panoramic views of Skjern River’s wild beauty.
Rasteplads
8.7 km
Experience Ribe's Viking heritage through immersive reenactments and interactive workshops at Vikingborg.
Vadehavscentret
8.7 km
Striking visitor center introducing Denmark’s Wadden Sea, with interactive exhibits on wildlife, tides, and bird migration set against world-class modern architecture.
Stormflodssøjlen, Sønderho
9.2 km
Experience North Sea wildlife at the Seal Bank Walk Meeting Point on Fanø, where tidal flats, seals, and expansive vistas shape an unforgettable Wadden Sea visit.
Detrigonometriskestation
9.2 km
Experience the storybook beauty of Slotsgaden, Møgeltønder—Denmark’s most picturesque street, connecting charming thatched cottages with the grandeur of Schackenborg Castle.
Fanø Kunstmuseum
9.4 km
Wander beneath linden trees and past centuries-old cottages along Møgeltønder’s Slotsgaden, Denmark’s most enchanting heritage street leading to Schackenborg Castle.
Vester Vedsted Vingård
9.9 km
Award-winning visitor center with immersive exhibits, birdlife experiences, and nature tours on the doorstep of Denmark’s UNESCO Wadden Sea National Park, near historic Ribe.
Sønderho Mølle
10.1 km
Historic open-air duck decoy in Fanø’s dunes, blending unique birdlife heritage with island traditions and immersive outdoor exhibits for curious visitors.
Rømø shooting area
10.2 km
Wild dunes and heathland scenery meet the North Sea at Spidsbjerg Rømø, an unspoiled escape for hikers, birdwatchers, berry-pickers, and seekers of solitude.
Seal Bank Walk Meeting Point
10.2 km
Gateway to the wild seal colonies of Fanø, offering unforgettable tidal walks and up-close wildlife encounters amid the coastal splendor of Denmark’s Wadden Sea.
Mosedalsbjerg
10.3 km
A breathtaking linden-lined street in Møgeltønder, Slotsgaden charms visitors with its historic thatched cottages and scenic path to Schackenborg Castle.
Juvre Sand
10.3 km
Experience Copenhagen's urban beach oasis at Svanemølle Beach, offering family-friendly waters and stunning Øresund views.
Essential places to dine
KlitHus Mandø
0.0 km
Experience timeless Danish hospitality at KlitHus Mandø—a cozy hotel and restaurant set amid Mandø’s tidal landscapes in the heart of the Wadden Sea National Park.
Mandøpigen: Cafe, Turbåd & Lejligheder
0.1 km
Island café, apartments, and boat tours at the heart of Mandø, offering homecooked Danish fare and authentic village charm within the Wadden Sea National Park.
Mandø Kro I/S
0.3 km
Historic island inn and restaurant serving classic Danish fare, set amid the wild beauty of Mandø within the Wadden Sea National Park near Ribe.
Sønderho Kro
9.2 km
Experience Danish heritage and culinary excellence at Sønderho Kro, a historic inn with gourmet dining set in the atmospheric heart of Fanø’s most charming village.
Restaurant/Café Fajancen
9.3 km
Historic brasserie in Nordby offering classic Danish cuisine, local seafood, and island ambiance, perfect for savoring fresh flavors and island hospitality on Fanø.
Tre Søstre
9.5 km
Atmospheric café in Nordby village serving Danish classics, home-baked cakes, and island hospitality—a cherished Fanø gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
Café Fru Dax
14.4 km
Indulge in Denmark’s most legendary ice cream at Café Fru Dax, Rømø’s colorful beachside café, blending retro charm, creative treats, and local hospitality.
Café Hr. Dax
14.4 km
A lively, family-friendly café at the edge of Rømø’s famed sandy beaches, serving classic Danish fare, local specialties, and sweet treats in coastal comfort.
Rømø Pizza & Pasta Restaurant
14.4 km
Discover delicious Italian cuisine at Rømø Pizza & Pasta Restaurant - a culinary delight on Denmark's stunning Rømø Island.
Roland Imbiss
14.5 km
Experience delicious takeout delights at Roland Imbiss in Rømø - where local flavors meet beachside charm!
Café Retro Brøns Kro
14.9 km
Discover Café Retro Brøns Kro in Skærbæk: A delightful blend of traditional Danish cuisine and vibrant atmosphere awaits.
Mad Ud Af Huset
15.4 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine in the heart of Ribe at Mad Ud Af Huset.
Restaurant Backhaus ApS
15.4 km
Historic Danish cuisine and timeless hospitality meet at Restaurant Backhaus, a beloved gathering place in the medieval heart of Ribe.
Pizza Express
15.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Pizza Express in Ribe, where every slice is crafted with passion and served with warmth.
Weis Stue
15.5 km
Historic 17th-century inn and restaurant in Ribe’s heart, famed for its timbered charm, Danish cuisine, and centuries-old tradition of warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sønderho Gårdbutik
10.5 km
Discover authentic Fanø farmhouse flavors and island produce at Sønderho Gårdbutik—a rustic farm shop brimming with local treats, homemade goods, and rural Danish charm.
Rømø Lys
14.4 km
Creative candle making and Danish souvenirs in a welcoming Lakolk store, blending hands-on tradition and local charm on the scenic island of Rømø.
By Vicky
14.4 km
Discover Danish island style and boutique shopping at By Vicky, an inviting clothing store in Rømø's lively Lakolk Butikscenter near the legendary west coast beaches.
Metropolis Drachen
14.4 km
Discover Rømø’s legendary kite shop, Metropolis Drachen, where wind, colour, and creativity unite on Denmark’s breezy North Sea coast.
Rømø Bolsjeri og Ishus
14.4 km
Watch traditional Danish candies being crafted by hand and enjoy creamy ice cream at Rømø Bolsjeri og Ishus in Lakolk, steps from the island's wildly popular beach.
Butik Rømø
14.4 km
Charming toy, airsoft, and kite shop in Rømø’s Lakolk Butikscenter, popular for hands-on displays, family fun, and gear inspired by the island’s beaches and breezes.
Lakolk Butikscenter
14.4 km
Experience lively coastal shopping, local flavors, and community events at Lakolk Butikscenter, the vibrant heart of Rømø by the Wadden Sea National Park.
Ib's Gavecenter v/Mona Pedersen Ib
14.4 km
Discover a delightful array of Danish souvenirs, coastal crafts, and heartfelt gifts at Ib’s Gavecenter, set in the bustling Lakolk Butikscenter on scenic Rømø.
Cafe Hattesgaard
14.4 km
Atmospheric café-meets-antique emporium set in a historic farmhouse on Rømø, known for legendary cakes, local hospitality, and one-of-a-kind vintage finds.
Det Gamle Apothek
15.6 km
Experience the nostalgia of Ribe’s 17th-century apothecary, now a magical boutique packed with traditional Danish sweets, handmade crafts, and festive Nordic décor.
Den Lille Ravbutik
15.6 km
Discover the magic of Danish amber at Den Lille Ravbutik, Ribe’s boutique jewelry destination for handcrafted keepsakes and authentic Baltic treasures.
Arbuckle Design
17.3 km
Discover unique fashion accessories that capture the essence of Danish design at Arbuckle Design in Fanø.
Kunstladen
18.6 km
Kunstladen is Fanø’s vibrant hub for Danish crafts, unique gifts, and local design—an inviting island shop perfect for souvenirs, style, and artistic inspiration.
Rømø Bageriet
19.8 km
Beloved Rømø bakery serving traditional Danish breads, pastries, and local treats in a cozy, friendly setting at the heart of Havneby.
Coop Dagli'Brugsen Rømø
20.7 km
Rømø’s central hub for groceries, fresh baked goods, and Danish essentials—serving locals and island visitors from early morning till evening in Havneby.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe Nanas Stue
9.3 km
Charming, historic café in the heart of Fanø, serving regional Danish dishes, homemade cakes, and signature hygge in a classic thatched-roof setting.
Cafeteria Lakolk
14.4 km
Cafeteria Lakolk offers hearty Danish classics and seaside hospitality at the gateway to Rømø’s windswept Lakolk Beach, blending nostalgia with local flavor.
Marskdestilleriet
14.5 km
Experience handcrafted Danish spirits at Marskdestilleriet in Rømø, where tradition meets innovation in distillation.
Klubben 1811
15.4 km
Experience true Danish hospitality and community spirit at Klubben 1811, Ribe’s lively and historic local bar in the heart of Denmark’s oldest town.
Stenbohus
15.5 km
Experience the historic charm and vibrant atmosphere of Stenbohus, Ribe's beloved tavern offering live music and local brews.
Strygejernet
15.6 km
Experience the authentic pulse of Ribe at Strygejernet, a cherished local bar in Denmark’s oldest town, offering lively nights, live music, and friendly faces.
Kabyssen
19.2 km
Kabyssen is Fanø’s cherished gathering spot, blending maritime nostalgia, friendly locals, and affordable drinks in a cozy setting at the heart of Nordby.
VadeMad
20.4 km
VadeMad is a lively Nordby eatery blending Fanø’s maritime heritage with seasonal Nordic cuisine beside the island’s iconic brewery.
Enjoy Resorts Rømø
20.9 km
Modern spa and golf resort blending Scandinavian design, wellness experiences, and family-friendly leisure at the heart of Rømø’s nature-rich island landscape.
Hjørnekroen
21.1 km
Quintessential Danish inn experience in the heart of Nordby on Fanø, offering warm hospitality, hearty local fare, and a rich sense of island tradition.
Dokken City Beach
21.7 km
Experience Esbjerg's harbor transformed into a vibrant beach retreat with cocktails, games, and cultural events.
SoHo - Bar & Cocktails
22.0 km
Stylish cocktails, welcoming atmosphere, and a touch of urban buzz await in Esbjerg’s lively center at SoHo Bar & Cocktails, a top choice for classic and creative drinks.
Bjælkehytten - En Vestjysk BierBar
22.1 km
Bjælkehytten in Esbjerg offers classic West Jutland hospitality, a rustic log cabin atmosphere, and a diverse selection of beers in the city’s vibrant nightlife district.
King George
22.1 km
Experience Esbjerg’s welcoming beer hall tradition at King George—an atmospheric bodega where locals and travelers mingle over affordable drinks and lively conversation.
Kasket Karl
22.1 km
Experience Esbjerg's vibrant nightlife at Kasket Karl, where local charm meets contemporary flair in a lively bar setting.
