Background

The Enchanting Heritage of Schackenborg Castle

Baroque beauty and royal history meet at Schackenborg Castle, an iconic moated estate with lush gardens, guided tours, and deep Danish heritage near Tønder.

4.5

Schackenborg Castle, nestled on the edge of Møgeltønder near Tønder, is an evocative baroque residence and former royal retreat, steeped in centuries of Danish aristocratic and royal history. Its stately white facades, sprawling manicured gardens, and atmospheric moat transport visitors into the world of noble lineage, royal intrigue, and southern Jutland’s rural grandeur. Guided tours reveal ornate interiors, exquisite French-style gardens, and fascinating tales of the Schack family and Queen Margrethe's youngest son, Joachim, who once called it home.

A brief summary to Stormflodssøjlen

  • Skibbroen 25, Ribe, 6760, DK
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Book your guided tour in advance, especially during weekends and summer, as spots can fill quickly and access is only possible with a guide.
  • Take time to stroll the castle’s French-inspired gardens, which are open for free even if you’re not joining a tour inside.
  • Check the events calendar for open-air concerts or special exhibitions that occasionally take place in the grounds.
  • Parking is available near the castle, but can be limited during large events; arrive early if visiting on a festival or concert day.
  • Enjoy a traditional Danish pastry and coffee at the castle’s café, which uses local ingredients and offers a scenic garden view.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Car

    Approaching from Rømø, travelers first cross the dramatic Rømø dam to the mainland, with wide views of the Wadden Sea nature park. Once on the mainland, head towards Tønder, the historic market town closest to Schackenborg. The final approach follows rural byways lined with traditional reed-roofed farmhouses, leading into the heart of Møgeltønder—known for its cobbled streets and old linden trees. The castle’s white towers are visible above the treeline as you approach the village center. Free onsite parking is available, though during holidays and event days, arriving earlier ensures a spot.

  • Public Transport & Walking

    Buses regularly connect Skærbæk (the nearest main station after Rømø) with Tønder and Møgeltønder. From Tønder, local buses or taxis bring visitors toward the storied cobbled main street of Møgeltønder, with the castle gates at its visible end. Public transport fares typically range from DKK 22–40 (one-way adult). From the bus stop, a short walk (under 10 minutes) through the picturesque old village brings you directly to the castle gates. It's advisable to check seasonal bus schedules and plan connections carefully.

  • Bicycle

    For those who love scenic cycling, the journey from Rømø to Schackenborg is a celebrated regional route. Riders pass salt marshes, birdwatching lookouts, and small thatched villages. Secure bicycle stands are provided near the castle entrance, and the route is largely flat and suitable for all levels. Allow for 60–90 minutes cycling time depending on pace and breaks.

Unlock the Best of Stormflodssøjlen

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Stormflodssøjlen

Schackenborg Castle stands as one of southern Denmark’s most captivating and historically significant landmark estates, renowned for its elegant baroque architecture and its storied connection to the Danish royal family. Set against the idyllic backdrop of the picturesque town of Møgeltønder, the castle’s pearly white walls, four corner towers, and tranquil moat create a fairytale silhouette that's as spellbinding today as it was centuries ago. Constructed in the 1660s by the noble Schack family atop the remnants of a medieval stronghold, Schackenborg seamlessly blends aristocratic grandeur with the pastoral serenity of the surrounding marshlands. Over the years, the estate flourished, gaining beautifully symmetrical French gardens adorned with sculpted box hedges, ornamental ponds, and tree-lined avenues that invite visitors to stroll and reflect. The castle’s interiors, accessible via guided tour, present a tapestry of period rooms displaying baroque furniture, intricate stucco, and subtle royal flourishes—a subtle reminder that in addition to its noble lineage, the estate was home to Prince Joachim, youngest son of Queen Margrethe II, until 2014. Modern-day Schackenborg is more than an architectural gem: it is a living piece of Danish heritage. Special exhibitions, summer concerts, and royal-themed events bring vibrancy to its grounds, and the gardens remain a favorite for picnics and quiet walks. The nearby café and slotshop, featuring local specialties, offer additional allure. Visitors should note that castle access is by guided tour only—ensuring preservation and an enriched interpretive experience. Whether drawn by royal stories, horticultural beauty, or an authentic slice of Denmark’s southern borderlands, Schackenborg offers cultural depth and evocative atmosphere in equal measure.

Popular Experiences near Stormflodssøjlen

Popular Hotels near Stormflodssøjlen

Select Currency