Gl. Skovridergaard, Silkeborg

From Royal Forester’s Lodge to Contemporary Retreat

Gl. Skovridergaard began life in 1798 as the residence of the royal forester, watching over Silkeborg’s surrounding woods and lakes. Over time it evolved into a genteel spa retreat and occasional royal residence, before being carefully reimagined as a hotel and conference venue. The main building still carries the proportions of a grand country house, with pitched roofs, generous windows and a sense of quiet dignity that hints at its long history. Today, historic bones meet modern Danish comfort. Light-filled interiors, polished wooden floors and thoughtfully restored details preserve the house’s character, while updated guest rooms and public spaces make it a practical base for both leisure guests and business travellers. Artworks, design pieces and a warm, understated service style underline the feeling that you are staying somewhere with a genuine story rather than a generic property.

Park, Forest and Lakes on the Doorstep

The hotel is wrapped in its own green park, a soft buffer between the buildings and the nearby streets of Silkeborg. Mature trees, lawns and tucked-away corners create plenty of places to sit with a book or stroll before dinner. Just beyond, paths lead straight into the surrounding woodland and towards the area’s clear lakes, part of the broader Søhøjlandet landscape that defines this part of Jutland. From here it is an easy outing to Almindsø for a bracing freshwater swim, or a longer walk that links lakes, viewpoints and forest clearings. The celebrated paddle steamer that sails the Gudenåen river up towards Himmelbjerget departs within reach, turning a simple boat trip into a classic local excursion. For many guests, the blend of cultivated park and wilder nature is the real luxury: you can move from seminar room or dining table to birdsong and pine-scented air in a matter of minutes.

Culinary Focus on Seasons and Local Produce

Food is a central part of the experience at Gl. Skovridergaard. The kitchen builds menus around what is in season, using local and often organic produce wherever possible. Traditional Nordic flavours are reworked with a light, modern touch, from carefully sourced meats and fish to vegetables that follow the rhythm of the year. The aim is as much about balance and thoughtfulness as indulgence. A generous breakfast buffet typically showcases fresh breads, dairy, fruits and homemade touches, served with garden or park views that invite an unhurried start to the day. Later, the restaurant offers set menus or à la carte options, often with a focus on reducing food waste and using whole ingredients. Quiet dining rooms, candlelight and views to the trees outside add a sense of occasion without stiffness, making the restaurant appealing for both hotel guests and local diners.

Spaces for Conferences, Celebrations and Quiet Stays

Beyond its role as a hotel and restaurant, Gl. Skovridergaard functions as a well-equipped conference and event centre. Meeting rooms of various sizes are integrated into the historic buildings and newer wings, many with large windows that bring in daylight and glimpses of greenery. The setting encourages a different rhythm to typical urban venues: breaks can spill into the garden, and sessions can be punctuated by short walks instead of elevator rides. The same qualities make it a favourite setting for weddings, family gatherings and special celebrations. Banquet spaces combine classic architecture with contemporary furnishings, and the on-site kitchen simplifies planning. For individual travellers and couples, guest rooms range from compact, bright spaces to more spacious suites, often with views towards the park or trees. The overall feel is quietly stylish rather than ostentatious, aimed at rest, conversation and concentration.

Silkeborg’s Culture and Design Within Easy Reach

Although the property feels tucked away, Silkeborg’s compact centre lies within comfortable walking distance. That puts galleries, museums and a growing food scene within easy reach. Museum Jorn, with its striking modern building and collection of Danish and international art, is a natural complement to the curated art found in the hotel’s corridors. Nearby, the historic baths at Silkeborg Bad and its art centre add another layer of culture in a park setting. Back at Gl. Skovridergaard, interiors subtly echo this cultural focus. Scandinavian design pieces, comfortable lounge areas and a relaxed bar invite you to linger after a day of meetings, hikes or museum visits. The property’s blend of heritage, nature and contemporary design captures the character of Silkeborg itself: rooted in landscape, open to culture and best enjoyed at an unhurried pace.