Den Gamle Kro, Gråsten
A traditional Danish inn in central Gråsten, blending nostalgic kro charm, hearty regional cooking and simple rooms a short stroll from the town’s royal castle.
Set on the main street of Gråsten, Den Gamle Kro is a classic Danish inn combining a traditional restaurant with cozy overnight rooms. Low ceilings, heavy wooden furniture and framed royal portraits create a nostalgic kro atmosphere, while the kitchen serves hearty Danish staples, smørrebrød and regional Sønderjysk specialties. It is as much a place for a long lunch as for an old‑fashioned stay in a small South Jutland town.
A brief summary to Den Gamle Kro
- Slotsgade 6, Gråsten, 6300, DK
- +4574651567
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Reserve ahead for weekend lunches and summer evenings, especially if you want a table in the older, more atmospheric dining rooms.
- Try regional specialties such as Sønderjysk dishes or solæg alongside the more familiar smørrebrød and fish plates.
- Combine a meal or overnight stay with a walk to Gråsten Castle and its gardens, which are within easy walking distance.
- If you prefer a quieter experience, aim for early lunch or early dinner outside peak Danish holiday periods.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Den Gamle Kro location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Den Gamle Kro
A historic inn in the heart of Gråsten
Den Gamle Kro sits on Slotsgade, a short stroll from Gråsten’s castle and lake, and feels like stepping into an older chapter of Danish small‑town life. The whitewashed facade and traditional signage mark it out immediately as a kro, the historic blend of roadside inn, local hangout and dining room that has long punctuated Denmark’s main routes. Inside, a warren of dining rooms and guest corridors retains an intimate, lived‑in charm. You notice polished woodwork, timeworn floorboards and a sense that the building has gradually grown around the rhythms of everyday gatherings, celebrations and passing travellers. It is one of the town’s most characteristic addresses, and much of its appeal lies in how little it seems to have changed.Classic Danish cooking with a Sønderjysk accent
The restaurant is the beating heart of Den Gamle Kro, serving the kind of dishes many associate with traditional Danish comfort food. At lunch, generous open‑faced sandwiches arrive on dense rye bread, piled high with herring, roast beef, egg and shrimp. Regional touches appear in specialities such as solæg, pickled eggs with a small ritual of condiments, and rich meat stews named for Gråsten itself. In the evening, the kitchen shifts toward beloved kro classics: pan‑fried plaice with remoulade, roast meats with deep, creamy sauces and potatoes in multiple forms. Desserts lean homely rather than experimental, with pancakes, ice cream and seasonal fruit making regular appearances. Portions tend to be substantial, in keeping with the inn’s identity as a place where meals are meant to be lingered over.Rooms above the restaurant
As a traditional inn, Den Gamle Kro also offers simple accommodation above and behind the restaurant. Rooms usually balance straightforward furnishings with nods to the building’s age: sloping ceilings, small details in the carpentry and views out over Gråsten’s rooftops or the quiet street below. Staying overnight allows you to experience the kro’s full rhythm, from the relative calm of the morning breakfast service to the livelier atmosphere of lunch and dinner. For travellers tracing a route through South Jutland, it works well as a convenient base between the fjords, the German border and the coastal landscapes of the region.Atmosphere steeped in Danish kro tradition
Much of the allure here lies in the atmosphere rather than any single showpiece feature. The dining rooms are often arranged with heavy wooden tables, patterned wallpaper and displays of old photographs, royal portraits or local memorabilia. Lamps cast a warm, slightly subdued light that adds to the cozy, almost living‑room feel. This is a place where formalities are relaxed but certain rituals still matter: coffee served in proper cups, plates arriving on classic white porcelain, and a pace that encourages conversation. On quieter days you might notice the creak of the floor or muffled sounds from the kitchen more than chatter, which only adds to the sense of being in a house rather than a purpose‑built venue.Gråsten’s small‑town setting
Stepping outside, you are in the centre of Gråsten, with the town’s compact grid, shops and the approach to the royal summer residence close at hand. The inn’s location makes it easy to weave a meal or an overnight stay into a wider exploration of the area’s gardens, forests and waterside paths. In summer, longer daylight hours give the street a gentle buzz as locals and visitors move between the castle grounds and the town. In winter, the kro’s warm interior and comforting dishes stand in contrast to the often brisk coastal weather, turning it into a natural refuge after a cold walk or a day exploring southern Jutland.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Befrielsessten i Vester Sottrup
6.8 km
A quiet stone marking Denmark's liberation and Vester Sottrup's wartime legacy.
King's Redoubt
10.0 km
A preserved 1864 military fortress symbolizing Danish resilience and regional heritage.
Tysk skanse X
10.0 km
Stille jordvolde på Dybbøl Banke, hvor en tysk skanse fortæller om tiden efter 1864 og fæstningsringen, der engang omklamrede Sønderborg.
Genforeningsmærke på Dybbøl Skanse II
10.2 km
Memorial marker honoring Danish reunification and the 1864 battle's fallen defenders on a historic fortification site.
Mindesten for Røde Kors
10.3 km
A quiet memorial to the world's first Red Cross observers amid Denmark's most historic battlefield.
Mindesten for korporal Hammerström og konstabel Frederiksen
11.8 km
A modest stone on Sønderborg’s former shooting range honouring two fallen wartime servicemen, inviting a brief but powerful pause for remembrance and reflection.
Iskonditoriet
12.3 km
Byparkens Legeplads in Roskilde fuses creative play equipment and green park scenery for a free, family-friendly experience in the heart of the historic Danish city.
Windmill
12.4 km
Denmark's iconic windmill and national symbol of resilience, rebuilt after war and transformed into a living museum of history.
Papirgalleriet v/Gitte Kristjansen
12.5 km
A vibrant family-friendly playground in central Roskilde, Byparkens Legeplads offers open-air fun, creativity, and relaxation in the heart of the city’s beloved Byparken.
Memory stone
12.5 km
A modest monument on Sønderborg’s town-hall square, the Memory Stone offers a quiet pause for reflection amid the everyday bustle of this historic border town.
Sønderborg Kommunale Kommandocentral
12.9 km
Hidden beneath Kongevej lies Sønderborg’s former Cold War nerve center, an underground command bunker built to keep the city running in times of crisis.
Gedenkstein für hingerichtete Widerstandskämpfer
13.6 km
Discreet harborfront memorial in Sønderborg honoring eleven young German sailors executed for mutiny in 1945, inviting quiet reflection on conscience and war.
Foundation country Schäferhaus
22.2 km
Explore the serene beauty of Foundation country Schaeferhaus, a nature preserve in Flensburg, perfect for relaxation, education, and wildlife observation.
Kriegerdenkmal
44.8 km
Discover the rich history of Schleswig at Kriegerdenkmal, a poignant monument honoring soldiers and their sacrifices in a serene, beautiful setting.
Globushaus und Fürstengarten
45.1 km
Explore the stunning Globushaus and Fürstengarten, where history meets beauty in the heart of Schleswig, Germany.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gråstenskovene
0.8 km
A sweeping belt of lakes, beech woods and gentle hills wrapped around Gråsten, blending royal parkland with quietly scenic Southern Jutland forest.
Forfyr Rinkenæs
3.8 km
Step into Denmark’s history at Historiecenter Dybbøl Banke, where reconstructed fortifications and interactive exhibits bring the dramatic events of 1864 vividly to life.
Nøffelskoven med træskulpturer
5.0 km
Small, sculpture-filled Nøffelskoven is a young forest playground of winding paths, wooden art, fire circle and shelters between Sønderborg and Gråsten.
Nybøl Mølle
5.1 km
A hilltop windmill where traditional engineering, borderland battles and quiet fields meet in a single white tower north of Nybøl.
Halbinsel Holnis
5.6 km
Experience the serene landscapes and rich wildlife of Halbinsel Holnis, a tranquil nature preserve on the beautiful Baltic Sea coast of Germany.
Fællesgravene på Toppen af Dybbøl Banke
10.0 km
A modest field of shared graves crowns Dybbøl Banke, where simple stones, open sky and rolling hills commemorate the fallen of Denmark’s fateful 1864 battlefield.
Genforeningstavle på Dybbøl tysk skanse X
10.0 km
A modest reunification plaque on Dybbøl’s former German Redoubt X, linking the 1864 battlefield to the peaceful border changes of 1920 in a quiet, open landscape.
Sandbjerg Manor
10.3 km
An 18th‑century Rococo manor turned scholarly retreat, framed by lake, fjord and parkland on the edge of Sønderborg in South Jutland.
Mindesten for Løjtnant Rothenborg Muus
10.3 km
Mølleparken in Sønderborg offers green open spaces, shaded paths, and playgrounds—the perfect urban escape for families, picnickers, and those seeking serenity.
Historiecenter Dybbøl Banke
10.3 km
Step onto the ridge where Denmark’s fate was decided in 1864, with immersive battle films, reconstructed trenches and a living soldiers’ camp on historic Dybbøl Banke.
Dybbøl Mill
10.6 km
Historic Dybbøl Mill: a powerful symbol atop Sønderborg’s battlefield landscape, blending dramatic heritage, immersive exhibitions, and unforgettable views over southern Denmark.
Glücksburg Castle
10.6 km
Explore the enchanting Glücksburg Castle, a 16th-century gem by the Baltic Sea, blending history, architecture, and natural beauty.
Dybbølstenen
10.7 km
A solitary Ice Age boulder resting in the fields near Dybbøl Banke, Dybbølstenen quietly links deep geological time with South Jutland’s historic landscape.
Mindesten for løjtnant A.P.Dorscheus
10.7 km
A modest roadside memorial stone in Sønderborg, honouring a fallen 19th‑century officer and quietly anchoring the turbulent history of the Schleswig wars in the everyday landscape.
Memorial Stone for du Plat, Schau and Rosen
11.1 km
A modest stone on a Sønderborg side street commemorating three resistance fighters, offering a brief but powerful pause for reflection on Denmark’s wartime past.
Essential places to dine
Den Gamle Kro
0.0 km
A traditional Danish inn in central Gråsten, blending nostalgic kro charm, hearty regional cooking and simple rooms a short stroll from the town’s royal castle.
Den Gamle Skomager
0.1 km
Laid-back Danish bodega in central Gråsten, mixing hearty comfort food, cold beer and small-town hygge in a lived-in, locals-first setting.
Restaurant Bind
8.7 km
Michelin-starred Nordic cuisine in a historic fjord-side villa, where fresh ingredients and open-kitchen artistry meet modern hospitality.
Ballebro Færgekro
9.7 km
Historic waterside inn and restaurant on the shores of Als Fjord, blending nostalgic 1890s charm, refined seasonal cuisine and deep Sønderjysk tranquility.
Restaurant Quellental
10.6 km
Experience exquisite German and Scandinavian cuisine at Restaurant Quellental in Glücksburg, with stunning views of the Baltic Sea.
Byens Pizza & Grill Dybbøl - Sønderborg
11.4 km
Experience the best pizza, barbecue, and burgers in Sønderborg at Byens Pizza & Grill Dybbøl – where flavor meets comfort!
Restaurant Sundhalle V/Eva Iversen
12.0 km
Relaxed harborfront restaurant in Sønderborg serving hearty Danish comfort food and pub classics in a cozy, down-to-earth bar atmosphere by the water.
Restaurant Alsik
12.1 km
Contemporary waterfront restaurant in the Alsik Hotel, blending South Jutland ingredients with classic European flavours in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Syttende
12.1 km
Michelin-starred sky dining on the 17th floor of Alsik, where New Nordic cuisine meets sweeping waterfront views over Sønderborg and Alssund.
Torve-Hallen
12.2 km
Eclectic waterfront restaurant in Sønderborg pairing Italian-inspired comfort food, creative interiors and harbour views from morning coffee to late-night dinners.
Promenaden - Is med udsigt
12.3 km
Casual harbourfront ice cream and hot dogs with wide-open views towards Sønderborg Castle, outdoor seating only and a playful, family-friendly seaside atmosphere.
Restaurant Colosseum
12.3 km
Harbourfront Danish comfort food in a cosy, family-friendly setting with views over Sønderborg’s waterfront and a welcoming slice of Southern Jutland hygge.
Bistro Grand Mère
12.3 km
Harborfront French bistro in Sønderborg, blending classic Gallic comfort dishes, thoughtful wines and a cozy green-paneled setting with views of the lively marina.
Grey Ghost ApS
12.3 km
Candlelit Danish brasserie in Sønderborg’s old town, blending hygge, seasonal cooking and carefully chosen wines in a warm, intimate setting.
Karikatur Restaurant og Bar i Sønderborg
12.3 km
Modern Nordic plates and inventive cocktails come together in a clean-lined, harbor-close restaurant that anchors Sønderborg’s contemporary dining scene.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mr Klausen Herre-og Drengetøj
12.5 km
Classic Danish mens- and boyswear on Sønderborg’s Perlegade, blending everyday essentials, occasion outfits and local Ringridning traditions in one friendly shop.
Twizt Fashion
12.5 km
Compact Danish fashion and lingerie boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, combining everyday practicality with relaxed, personal service.
Jim P.
12.6 km
Curated fashion for discerning shoppers seeking distinctive style beyond the mainstream.
Viller
12.6 km
Independent women’s fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, blending Scandinavian style, curated brands and personal, one-to-one service.
Juhl Bolighus A / S
12.6 km
A vast Danish design furniture house in Sønderborg’s historic center, blending showroom and museum to showcase timeless craftsmanship and iconic interiors.
Kop & Kande
12.6 km
Welcoming Danish homeware and gift shop on Sønderborg’s main street, stocked with practical kitchen essentials, stylish tableware and thoughtful presents.
Noa Noa
12.6 km
A small Danish fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main street, showcasing Noa Noa’s feminine, bohemian-inspired style in a calm, easy-to-browse setting.
Masai
12.6 km
Danish fashion boutique celebrating bold colors, unique prints, and Scandinavian design excellence.
Tøjeksperten
12.6 km
Denmark's largest menswear chain brings premium brands and accessible style to central Sønderborg.
Gundtoft Sønderborg
12.6 km
Classic women's fashion since 1957, nestled on Sønderborg's charming pedestrian street.
Janne K Sønderborg
12.6 km
Colorful Danish womenswear with Italian-made fabrics in the heart of Sønderborg’s main shopping street on the island of Als.
JACK & JONES
12.6 km
Straightforward Scandinavian menswear in the heart of Borgen Shopping, ideal for denim, casual basics and smart-casual outfits under one convenient indoor roof.
Zizzi - Sønderborg
12.6 km
Modern plus-size fashion for women in the heart of Sønderborg’s Borgen Shopping centre, combining Scandinavian style, generous sizing and friendly fit-focused advice.
Butik Schlott
12.6 km
Independent men’s fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main street, offering curated international brands, classic tailoring and personal service in a relaxed setting.
Borgen
12.6 km
Sønderborg's complete shopping experience: 40 stores, dining, cinema, and culture under one roof.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tinsoldaten/Kim Jakobsen
8.7 km
An unpretentious neighborhood bar in central Sønderborg, offering simple drinks, local color and a relaxed glimpse of everyday Danish nightlife.
Caféen
11.8 km
Lively, low‑priced bar inside Sønderborg’s Alsion complex, where students and locals meet for music, dancing and late‑night drinks by the harbour.
Freia Bar & Lounge
12.0 km
Harbourfront hotel bar with Nordic myth touches, crafted drinks and hygge-rich lounge seating overlooking Sønderborg’s Alssund and skyline.
New Orleans Jazz I Sønderborg
12.2 km
Intimate, association-run jazz club in central Sønderborg, serving up New Orleans–inspired live music, close-up performances and a friendly, community atmosphere.
Visselulles Vinbar
12.3 km
Intimate waterfront wine bar showcasing world-class vintages and French-inspired ambiance in historic Sønderborg.
Nebula.dk ApS
12.4 km
Atmospheric shisha lounge and cocktail bar in Sønderborg’s historic center, offering intimate lighting, cozy seating and slow-paced evenings for adults.
Rabalder Bar - Sønderborg
12.4 km
Tiny in size but big on volume, Rabalder Bar Sønderborg packs sing‑along hits, simple drinks and late‑night energy into one compact old‑town party den.
Penny Lane Sønderborg
12.5 km
Lively late‑night bar in central Sønderborg serving cocktails, beer and loud tunes from evening warm‑up to near‑club energy on weekend nights.
Old Danish Pub
12.5 km
Classic hygge-filled pub near Sønderborg’s main square, with affordable drinks, games, sports on screen and lively karaoke evenings on two cosy floors.
SKAAL Sønderborg
12.5 km
Modern craft beer bar and kitchen on Sønderborg’s main square, pouring rotating Danish brews and serving hearty comfort food in a stylish, urban setting.
Bar' Vinbar
12.5 km
Central Sønderborg’s relaxed corner wine bar, pouring around 50 wines by the glass plus cocktails, coffee and light bites in a warm, informal atmosphere.
Heidi's Bier Bar Sønderborg
12.5 km
Loud alpine-themed beer hall and late-night party bar bringing après-ski energy, big steins and sing-along hits to Sønderborg’s central Rådhustorvet.
Den Lille Vinbar
12.5 km
Cosy fromagerie-style wine bar on Perlegade, pairing carefully selected bottles with generous cheese tapas in an intimate, continental-feeling corner of Sønderborg.
the tea house
12.6 km
South Jutland's premier bubble tea destination with customizable flavors and signature boba varieties.
Værtshus Chr. Iv
12.8 km
Classic brown beer hall on Sønderborg’s main street, serving simple drinks, local atmosphere and everyday Danish hygge from late morning into the evening.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Business Friendly
