Background

Gavnø Castle and Park: A Rococo Gem in South Zealand

Experience the elegance of Gavnø Castle and its vibrant gardens in South Zealand.

4.4

Gavnø Castle, a stunning Rococo manor near Næstved, Denmark, offers visitors a rich tapestry of history, art, and nature. The estate features Denmark's most colorful church, expansive gardens hosting the nation's largest Tulip Festival, and a treetop adventure park, making it a must-visit destination in South Zealand.

A brief summary to Køge Miniby

  • 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

  • Visit during late April to early May to experience Denmark's largest Tulip Festival in full bloom.
  • Check the event calendar for special activities like the Classic Autojumble and Christmas Market.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the line and ensure entry during peak seasons.
  • Wear comfortable footwear to fully enjoy the expansive gardens and adventure courses.
  • Plan for a full day to explore the castle, gardens, adventure park, and brewery without rush.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Næstved's city center, head towards the island of Gavnø, which is accessible via a historic bridge dating back to 1772. The drive is short, taking approximately 10 minutes. Upon arrival, parking is available for a fee of DKK 45 per vehicle, with proceeds dedicated to the maintenance of the protected bridge.

  • Public Transport

    Take a train to Næstved Station. From there, board Næstved Bybus Line 604 (Sct. Jørgens Park/Appenæs/Næstved Storcenter) and alight at the stop on Gavnøvej opposite Udsigtsbakken. From this point, it's a pleasant walk of approximately 2 kilometers through scenic surroundings to reach Gavnø Castle.

  • Boat

    During the season, the boat 'Rundfart Friheden' operates daily between Næstved, Gavnø, and Karrebæksminde, offering a unique approach to the castle. The journey provides picturesque views of the surrounding waterways and landscapes.

Unlock the Best of Køge Miniby

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Køge Miniby

Nestled on the picturesque island of Gavnø near Næstved, Gavnø Castle stands as a testament to Denmark's rich architectural and cultural heritage. Originally established in the early 15th century as St. Agnes' Priory by Queen Margaret I, the site transformed over the centuries into the elegant Rococo manor seen today. This metamorphosis was largely the work of Count Otto Thott in the mid-18th century, who expanded the estate to house his extensive collections of art and literature. Visitors to Gavnø Castle are greeted by its distinctive yellow façade and three-winged structure, emblematic of Rococo design. Inside, the castle boasts Northern Europe's largest private collection of paintings, featuring approximately 1,000 works, including some of Scandinavia's oldest preserved portraits dating back to around 1460. The castle's chapel, known as the Convent Church, is renowned as the most colorful church in Scandinavia, adorned with intricate woodcuts by Abel Schrøder the Younger. The surrounding castle park is a horticultural delight, offering a changing palette of floral displays throughout the seasons. From late April to early May, the park hosts Denmark's largest Tulip Festival, showcasing thousands of tulips in a myriad of colors and varieties. As the year progresses, visitors can enjoy blooming rhododendrons, fragrant roses, and a diverse array of summer flowers. The park also features themed gardens such as the Sensory Garden, designed to engage all six senses, and the Rose Garden, home to a captivating rose maze. For families and adventure seekers, Gavnø Go Fly provides an exhilarating treetop adventure course with varying levels of difficulty, ensuring fun for all ages. Additionally, the estate includes a pirate-themed playground, treasure hunts, and the opportunity to observe African mountain goats, making it an ideal destination for children. Culinary experiences abound at Gavnø. The Castle Brewery, Denmark's only castle brewery, offers a selection of 14 different types of beer, brewed on-site in historic 19th-century farm buildings. Café Tulipanen serves homemade dishes, cakes, and beverages, utilizing ingredients sourced from the castle's own fields and livestock. Accessibility is a priority at Gavnø. While the castle itself has limited access due to stairs, the park and other facilities are wheelchair-friendly. Handicap attendants with valid ID are granted free entry, and wheelchairs are available for loan upon request. Dogs on leashes are welcome in the castle park but are not permitted inside the castle, Café Tulipanen, or the Castle Brewery. Gavnø Castle and Park offer a harmonious blend of history, art, nature, and adventure, making it a quintessential destination for those exploring South Zealand.

Popular Experiences near Køge Miniby

Popular Hotels near Køge Miniby

Select Currency