Straight to the heart - Family holidays in Denmark
In the heart of Denmark and perfectly located for exploring the aptly coined ‘garden isle’ of Funen and neighbouring area of East Jutland, Middelfart has long been the connection point between these two spectacular regions, once by boat and now by two impressive bridges.
With the ancient Hindsgavl forest, captivating Fænø Sound and the coast of the Lillebælt Sea literally on the doorstep, Middelfart is brimming with breathtaking scenery and family adventures just waiting to be had.
In the middle of the lush Funen orchards with a prime position on the water’s edge and bordering onto the forest, Middelfart Resort & ConferenceCenter makes an ideal base to enjoy the surrounding simple pleasures of swimming, walking, cycling and horse riding whilst staying in well-appointed spacious cottages. Offering excellent facilities on site ¬including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a playground, minigolf, tennis, bowling and a huge array of activities, it is also perfectly located for exploring the local attractions as well as further afield.
Taking advantage of this pristine watery playground, families can enjoy the natural high of whale watching under sail on a beautiful wooden ketch enchanted by Denmark’s playful porpoises as they frolic in the bay; navigate the smooth waters on the stunning South Fyn Archipelago by kayak, discovering their own secret hideaways along the way; and angle off the shore for a fresh fish supper taking home the winning catch of the day.
Or for a more historical take on Middelfart and its fascinating sea-faring past, wander through the old town to the Middelfart Museum which houses an historical account of the area with exhibitions covering everything from the 19th century whaling trade and bridge building to a collection of period ladies' hats and textiles; cruise down to the harbour to the 19th century Lillebælt-Værfte (little belt shipyard) where old vessels continue to be restored using the old techniques as part of a working museum; and explore the grounds of the neo-classical Hindsgavl Slot with its remnants of the Hindsgavl Castle and informative display of the castle history and prehistoric artefacts from the area.
Straddling the best of both world’s, short day excursions from Middelfart offer an excellent way of exploring some Denmark’s most popular attractions all within an easy hour’s drive.
Enjoy a fairytale fantasy wandering through the cobbled streets of Denmark’s 4th largest city Odense (visitodense.com) - home to one of the world’s most famous children’s writers Han Christian Andersen or exploring the magnificent Egeskov Slot - one of Europe’s best preserved moated renaissance castles, with its grand collection of antique furniture, paintings, old hunting trophies and 18th Century designed grounds. Within the grounds are five fascinating museums, including the Veteran Car Museum with an extensive collection of aircraft, cars and motorcycles and arguably the most fairytale dolls' house in the world, Titania's Palace.
Head across the divide into Jutland to the original Legoland at Billund, with its amazingly detailed miniature versions of cities and famous landmarks as well as thrilling rides, miniature trains and water chutes. Next to Legoland, more watery fun can be had at Lalandia Billund – Scandinavia’s largest Aquadome or close by at Givskud Zoo with its safari setting and the largest pride of lions in Scandinavia. Slightly further away head North to the city lights of Aarhus, the country’s second largest city and one of the oldest cities in Denmark with ancient Viking roots and an the award-winning five star attraction of Den Gamle By (The Old Town) - an interactive ‘living’ historic village.
Getting there:
DFDS Seaways (dfds.co.uk) offers a regular service of overnight departures between Harwich and Esbjerg The drive from Esbjerg to Middelfart takes around one hour with many popular attractions easily explored on route. A holiday cottage at the Middelfart Resort & Conference Center starts from DKK750 (£85)/night based on a minimum two night stay.
For a more information on Middelfart and the surrounding area, go to: visitmiddelfart.dk
