Dragsholm Castle is one of the oldest and most fascinating castles in Denmark, dating back to the 13th century. Located picturesquely on Zealand's west coast, it is surrounded by lush forests and vast fields, creating the perfect setting for a romantic weekend getaway. Originally built as a fortified bishop's residence, this medieval castle has changed its functions over the centuries, from a defensive fortress to a prison for the noble, to the luxury hotel it is today.

Dragsholm is famous not only for its impressive architecture, but also for its rich history of hauntings. According to local legends, as many as three spirits reside within the castle walls: the White Lady (an unhappily in love girl), the Gray Lady (a former employee of the castle) and the most famous - Earl of Bothwell, the third husband of Scottish Queen Mary Stuart, who spent the last years of his life as a prisoner in Dragsholm. His mummified body is said to have been found in the wall of the castle in the 19th century, adding to the site's dark charm.

Today, Dragsholm Castle offers luxurious rooms decorated in a style that combines historical character with modern amenities. A special highlight is the Michelin-starred restaurant, where the chef serves elaborate dishes prepared from local, seasonal produce, often harvested from the surrounding forests and beaches. A romantic candlelit dinner in the castle's dining room is an experience to remember for a long time.

The castle is surrounded by a picturesque herb garden and park, which encourages long walks. Particularly charming are the morning mists hovering over the fields around the castle, giving the place a mystical feel. For lovers of active recreation, the area offers opportunities for horseback riding, bicycle tours or walks along the cliff coast.

Hindsgavl Castle, on the island of Funen, on the other hand, is a pearl of Danish Baroque, dating back to the 13th century. The castle's current shape dates from the 18th century, when the medieval fortress was converted into an elegant Baroque-style residence. Surrounded by a 165-acre landscaped park overlooking the Little Belt (the strait between Funen and Jutland), Hindsgavl offers some of the most beautiful views in all of Denmark.

The history of the castle is as fascinating as its architecture. In the Middle Ages, it was one of the most important royal fortresses, guarding a strategic passage between the islands. Over the centuries Hindsgavl has witnessed numerous battles, peace negotiations and royal visits. The most famous legend associated with the castle is the tale of the 'White Lady' - the ghost of a young girl who fell in love with the wrong man and was walled up alive in the walls of the castle. It is said that her figure can be seen on moonless nights walking through the park.

Today, Hindsgavl Castle functions as a luxury hotel, offering elegant rooms in the main castle building and in adjacent historic buildings. Each room has its own unique character, combining historical details with modern amenities. The castle restaurant serves exquisite Danish cuisine with a modern twist, using local products, including herbs and vegetables from the hotel's own garden.

The park surrounding the castle is a true paradise for nature lovers. Here you can encounter wild deer roaming freely, and discover hidden corners with romantic benches and vantage points. Particularly charming is the path that leads to the shore of the Little Belt, offering panoramic views of the strait and the bridge connecting Funen to Jutland.

Holckenhavn Castle, located near the town of Nyborg on the island of Funen, is a magnificent example of Danish Renaissance architecture that impresses with its majestic silhouette surrounded by a moat. Built in the 16th century by Erik Hardenberg, a high-ranking royal official, the castle remained in the hands of the Danish aristocracy for centuries. Its distinctive brick walls, soaring roof and four corner towers create an image like a fairy tale, especially when reflected in the waters of the surrounding moat.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Holckenhavn is its rich family history. For more than 400 years the castle belonged to the Holck family, from which it took its current name. Each generation left its mark on the architecture and interior design, making today's Holckenhavn a fascinating mix of styles and eras. Particularly impressive is the castle chapel from the 17th century, with its original altar and pulpit, where wedding ceremonies are still held today.

There are many local legends associated with Holckenhavn. The most famous tells of the 'Red Lady' - the ghost of Ellen Marsvin, mother-in-law of King Christian IV, who is said to appear in the castle on the anniversary of her death. Another legend tells of a hidden treasure that one of the castle's owners buried in the park during the Swedish War and which was never found.

Today Holckenhavn Castle functions as a conference center and venue for special events, but it also offers the opportunity for a romantic stay in its historic interiors. Guests can stay in one of the elegantly decorated rooms, each with its own unique character and history. The castle's restaurant serves traditional Danish dishes prepared from local products, and a meal in the historic candlelit dining room is a true feast for the senses.

The park surrounding the castle, with its centuries-old oaks and linden trees, encourages romantic strolls. Particularly charming is the avenue leading to the castle, planted with mighty trees that form a natural tunnel. The castle's terrace offers a picturesque view of the surrounding forests and fields, and on clear days you can even see the distant coast.

Broholm, on the other hand, located near the town of Gudme in southern Funen, is one of the oldest castles in Denmark, dating back to the 12th century. Originally built as a defensive stronghold, it evolved over the centuries to become the elegant neoclassical-style residence we know today. Surrounded by picturesque parkland and forests, Broholm offers the perfect setting for a romantic weekend away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Broholm's history is closely linked to the Sehested family, which owned the castle for more than 300 years. The most famous member of the family was Niels Frederik Bernhard Sehested, an amateur archaeologist who amassed an impressive collection of Stone Age artifacts found around the castle. His discoveries contributed significantly to the development of Danish archaeology, and part of the collection can still be seen today in the castle's museum.

Broholm is also famous for its breeding of Broholm horses, specially bred by the Sehested family in the 19th century. These elegant horses, combining characteristics of Arabians and Danish horses, were prized throughout Europe for their stamina and intelligence. Although the original breeding line is now extinct, the history of these exceptional horses is an important part of Broholm's heritage.

Today, the castle functions as a luxury hotel, offering guests the opportunity to stay in historic rooms, decorated with attention to detail. Broholm's interiors are stunning with original furniture, artwork and design elements that take guests back in time to the heyday of Danish aristocracy. Particularly impressive is the library with its original book collection and the ballroom with crystal chandeliers.

The castle restaurant serves exquisite dishes prepared with products from the castle's own farm and surrounding farms. The chef's specialties include game dishes harvested from the forests surrounding the castle, as well as fish and seafood from the nearby Baltic Sea. A candlelit dinner in the castle's dining room, overlooking the expansive park, is the perfect culmination of a romantic day.

Kragerup Gods, located in the heart of Zealand near the town of Ruds-Vedby, represents a slightly different type of Danish historical estate than the castles previously described. It is a former landed estate (gods in Danish means 'estate') that dates back to the 14th century, when it belonged to the Kragerup family. Over the centuries, the estate changed hands, and in 1801 it passed to the Dinesen family, which still owns it today. The current main building was erected in 1801 in classicist style and impresses with its elegant, symmetrical facade with a distinctive column portico.

What sets Kragerup Gods apart from other historic estates in Denmark is its skillful combination of respect for tradition with an innovative approach to tourism and agriculture. The estate still operates as an active farm, cultivating more than 800 hectares of land according to modern, sustainable methods. Guests have a unique opportunity to experience Danish agriculture from the inside out by participating in seasonal farming and animal husbandry events.

One of the most fascinating stories associated with Kragerup Gods is that of Karen Blixen (née Dinesen), the famous Danish writer and author of 'Farewell to Africa.' Although she did not live in Kragerup itself, she was related to the owners of the estate and often visited it. First editions of her books with personal dedications to the family can be found in the Kragerup library.

Kragerup Gods offers luxurious accommodations in the main historic building and in modern rooms in former farm buildings. Each room has its own unique character, combining historical elements with modern amenities. Especially romantic are the suites in the main building, overlooking the expansive park and lake.

Kragerup Gods Restaurant is famous for its 'farm-to-table' philosophy, serving dishes prepared with produce from the hotel's own farm or local suppliers. The menu changes seasonally, reflecting the natural cycles of crops and farming. Particularly recommended dishes include lamb from the estate's own farm and vegetables and fruits from the estate's organic garden.

What really sets Kragerup Gods apart is the wealth of activities offered to guests. The property is home to 'Go High,' Denmark's largest rope park, where you can climb between the treetops at various levels of difficulty. For those who enjoy quieter activities, there are bicycles, kayaks on the lake and scenic walking paths through forests and fields. Culinary workshops, wine tastings and handicraft courses are also organized during the season.

Comparing all five castles, each offers a unique blend of history, luxury and romantic atmosphere, but they differ in character and attractions. Dragsholm Castle stands out for its Michelin-starred restaurant and rich haunting history, making it ideal for couples who appreciate refined cuisine and a mysterious atmosphere. Hindsgavl Castle offers the most spectacular views and opportunities to interact with wildlife, which will appeal to nature lovers. Holckenhavn Castle impresses with its Renaissance architecture and romantic location over the moat, perfect for fans of history and architecture. Broholm attracts with its rich archaeological history and elegant aristocratic character, while Kragerup Gods offers the richest choice of activities and the most modern approach to tradition.

Price-wise, Dragsholm Castle is the most exclusive, offering a stay in truly royal surroundings for a correspondingly high price. Slightly more affordable are Hindsgavl Castle and Broholm, while Holckenhavn Castle and Kragerup Gods offer the most varied price options to suit different budgets. Regardless of your choice, a weekend at one of these historic sites is an investment in unforgettable memories and a romantic experience in a setting that transports guests to another era without sacrificing modern luxuries.