Inspiration for Experiences in the Dark Season
Embrace the Darkness in North Zealand
The darkness has settled in; we retreat indoors to museums, restaurants, and cosy hotels, bringing the sense of 'hygge' with us. The sun sits low in the sky, and darkness arrives early. The statues, views, castles, and churches of North Zealand look different in the twilight but remain just as captivating.
Northern Light along the North Coast
The Northern Lights are a natural light phenomenon that occurs when particles from the sun collide with the Earth's atmosphere. Although the Northern Lights are typically seen in the Arctic regions, they can also be experienced in North Zealand. While rare in the area, the Northern Lights were visible several times from the North Zealand coast at the beginning of 2023. To increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, head to dark locations along the northern coastline. You can also boost your chances by joining the Facebook group 'Nordlysvarsel i Danmark' or downloading a Northern Lights app on your smartphone.
Culture Calls
North Zealand offers grand museum experiences, world-class art, and fascinating history at both monasteries and some of Denmark's most magnificent castles. But there are also plenty of smaller museums, galleries, art halls, and artisans that shape the cultural scene in North Zealand.
The Stars Come Out
The darkness deepens, but then the stars emerge. One of the best places to see the sparkling night sky in Zealand is at Tisvilde. Minimal light pollution provides the perfect conditions for a 'dark sky,' offering the chance to observe celestial phenomena from the Wieth-Knudsen Observatory when the weather is clear
Stargazing in Tisvildeleje
The art in the nature
North Zealand's nature is filled with beautiful gardens, parks, and scenic hiking trails. Cycling paths wind through the landscape, and if you’re in the mood for more culture, there are also opportunities for this, even in the midst of nature. Experience art in nature as you walk through the area called Rusland near the Rudolph Tegner Museum, the park in Louisiana, and the castle garden at Fredensborg Palace. Here, you can get up close to the art.
Adventures on Foot
Lace up your hiking boots and set off on an adventure. Enjoy the nature of North Zealand, whether on the Halsninoen trail winding through Halsnæs, along the coast with a magnificent view of the Kattegat, or following in the footsteps of pilgrims on the Tisvildevejen trail.
Experience places in a new way in the dark
city or a castle can feel like two entirely different places in light and darkness. When we think of holidays, we often think of summer and long, bright evenings, but in the autumn and winter darkness, something magical happens to the places we know.
Gilleleje - 365 Days a Year
At the top of North Zealand lies Gilleleje. The town is an attractive spot in the summer warmth, but an underrated gem at twilight. The town thrives all year, and the views over the Kattegat and Øresund are just as spectacular in the dark months as they are in the light. Go winter bathing in the harbour, cosy up in one of the warm restaurants, or snuggle under the duvet at one of the town’s hotels
Try Gilleleje in the Dark
There are many ways to stay overnight
Choosing where to stay for a weekend getaway or vacation can be challenging. Here, we present three different options for overnight stays in North Zealand: close to nature, at a charming seaside hotel, or in royal surroundings.