Beyond Copenhagen - Offbeat Things to Do in Denmark

Denmark, the tiny Scandinavian country jutting out of Germany may not be in many of your travel plans. But for the vast untouched beaches, lush pine trees, and charming cities, it deserves a place there right now. Don't just visit the capital, Copenhagen--go beyond to the quaint villages, chalky cliffs, whispering dunes, and save a date with the migratory birds. From fossil hunting to camping, read on to find some offbeat things to see and do in Denmark.

Kayak at Funen and Surrounding Islands

Kayaking on Odense river -- Arti Arun, Planet Safari

Funen Village, Odense -- Arti Arun, Planet Safari

Egeskov Castle -- Arti Arun, Planet Safari

Funen is the green centre of Denmark, where green and ochre fields dance in the breeze. Being an agricultural heartland, Funen is blessed with a fantastic scenery. Funen is also home to some of the magnificent castles of Denmark which attest to the wealth of the region. Odense is the major city here and it is also the birthplace of H.C. Andersen.

Odense is only a two-hour ride away from Copenhagen. The view from the coastal train is enough to melt any of your apprehensions about Funen. You can kayak along the beautiful Odense river as it meanders through the overgrown trees to visit the Odense zoo, one of the best zoos in Europe. Or continue to the boat ride to Funen Village to head straight into the times of the 16th century. Hop on a bus or a train and head to the magnificent Egeskov castle, the best-preserved water castle in Europe. This is a perfect stop for families with loads of activities and free space for the kids.  For shutterbugs, there are sumptuous opportunities to hone one's photographic skills.

If you're the adventurous kind, there are small islands around Funen, where you can kayak in the sea. For history buffs, the area is scattered with burial mounds and settlement sites.

For more information, check the Funen Tourism Website.


Fossil Hunting at the Cliffs of Mon

Mon Cliffs -- César González Palomo, Creative Commons

Visitors at Mon Klint -- César González Palomo, Creative Commons

The chalky white cliffs of Mon rise above the emerald waters of the Baltic Sea to form a stunning landscape. Mon is about 137 Kms from Copenhagen. There are well-defined biking paths to reach here. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi to reach here. The distinct and chalky soil near the cliffs provides nourishment to some rare orchids. So, being here during early summer means a glorious treat for your eyes. If you're lucky, you might find some fossils and amber along the coastline.

And, don't forget to visit Geo Centre Mons Klint. At the Centre, you can learn about the evolution of Denmark and Mon for the last 70 million years.

More information at Visit Denmark.


Horse Riding at Thy National Park

Thy National Park -- Carsten aus Bonn, Creative Commons

Lighthouse, Thy National Park -- Carsten aus Bonn, Creative Commons

Horse Riding -- Reindi, Creative Commons

Thy National Park forms the largest wilderness in Denmark. Thy is known for the windswept sand dunes and grasslands. The gorgeous landscape is characterized by a large number of pine and spruce trees. The area is also known for a large population of red deer and roe deer. Bird watchers can rejoice at the park, which is home to rare birds like the sandpiper and golden plover. Hop on an Icelandic horse and enjoy the well-laid hiking trails, or you can bike around the park.

Don't miss the remnants of the WWII bunkers dotting the area; check Museum Center Hanstholm for more details. Learn about the rich flora and fauna of the North Sea at the North Sea Aquarium.

Aalborg is the nearest city to Thy, and it is a short flight away from Copenhagen. There are also trains and buses from Copenhagen. From Aalborg, there are local trains and buses to Thy.

Check more details on Thy here.


Oyster Picking at Wadden Sea National Park

Oyster -- Larry Hoffman, Creative Commons

Fano Beach, Jesper Sorensen, Creative Commons

The newest National Park in Denmark, the Wadden Sea National Park is a must visit for nature lovers. The area is a stopover for many migratory birds to feast on the organisms of the rich and muddy waters before they head further north for breeding. You can witness a phenomenon called 'Black Sun' where thousands of starlings take over hiding the sun and thus making it black.

Between fall and spring, it is possible for visitors to go on an oyster safari with a guide. This particular activity is not family friendly as it is strenuous. The Pacific oysters are a non-native species here and they threaten the natural balance of this region. The only predator who can eat them is the humans. So, get ready to enjoy them...and watch out for the tide.

Don't miss the charming old town of Ribe and the picturesque island of Fano nearby. Esbjerg is the nearest city which can be reached by air, land, and rail from Copenhagen. 

Read here for further information.

Camping in Bornholm

Camping in Bornholm -- Distelfliege, Creative Commons

Bornholm -- Lars Johansen, Creative Commons

Stones -- Eleleleven, Creative Commons

Bornholm is a small island in the Baltic Sea. It is located closer to Sweden and Germany than Denmark. Known for its white sandy beaches and rural landscape, Bornholm attracts a large number of tourists in summer. The best way to see Bornholm is by a bike or by hiking or by riding a horse. There are a plethora of activities for families to indulge in.

It is possible to camp at Bornholm in pure wilderness and experience nature like never before. There are camping options for any budget, including ones with jacuzzi and pool. 

One can fly from Copenhagen to reach Bornholm. Alternatively, there are ferry options available. Make sure to visit the Butterfly Park in Nexo. And, don't miss the water sports activities.

The official Bornholm Tourism site has all the details.

Denmark has quite some unique experiences to offer you. Start planning your Danish holiday now!