Gåsetårnet

For those of you who know Danish history it is likely that you have heard of Vordingborg Castle. Built originally by Valdemar I (Valdemar den store), Vordingborg was a base for the Danish Kings during many wars from 1175 until after the Swedish wars (around 1660). It ended up being somewhat of a patchwork castle due to the myriad additions that were made. In the time of Valdemar IV (Valdemar Atterdag -1360s) Vordingborg castle consisted of 9 large towers, 12 smaller towers, and close to a kilometer of wall. The ruins that are left now are remnants of Valdemar Atterdag's castle. While remnants of walls remain, the most intact piece is one of the nine large towers, called Gåsetårnet or Goose tower. On Thursday we took some time to stop by Vordingborg to see this tower, climb up to the top, and see the view from such a historic place. Though the view on the horizon has changed from the time it was built, to stand at the top of a tower of such historical significance is special.

 I find it remarkable that the tower is in such good condition that you can go inside. The wooden stairwell may no longer be the original, but to be able to see the defensive windows from the inside, as well as the view from the top is incredible, particularly when you consider the age of the structure.

With the name of Gåsetårnet, or Goose tower, it is very fitting that there is a goose at the top.

From the top of the tower you can see the whole of Vordingborg.

Vi ses!

Møns Klint

I am usually in awe at the natural beauty of Denmark, as one can tell from previous posts all about the gorgeous scenery and the wonderful atmosphere it creates. After this past visit to Møns Klint, I am confident in saying that Møns Klint is one of the more gorgeous places I have seen. The stark beauty of Møns Klint really makes your jaw drop. 

Møns Klint is a cliff that was formed at the end of the last ice age. Composed of chalk, this white cliff has stood the test of time, standing at 128 meters tall at the highest point. 

When faced with such natural beauty one can not help but to feel a sense of wonder at the surrounding world. 

I was caught in the above picture, and it really shows the profound significance of nature when it is compared to a single individual. I always find nature to be humbling, and this picture helps show exactly why.

The pictures of Møns Klint speak volumes. I can never say it is gorgeous as many times as such a place deserves, and I do hope that you are able to see its beauty.

Danfoss Universe & a glance at Gråsten Palace

On the 22^nd of July we decided to get in touch with the young scientist within and head to Danfoss Universe. With over 200 fun, yet instructive activities for guests to do, Danfoss Universe is a “world of wisdom”.

Danfoss is a company best known for its thermostat designed for heat regulation but the company has many more products available to consumers. In 2005 Jørgen Mads Clausen, son of the founder of Danfoss, opened Danfoss Universe as an experience park designed as a place where the whole family can enjoy themselves while learning about science oriented themes. 

For Ole, Birgitte, and I, our favorite part of the park was the Segway track, which we went on many times throughout the day. 

On the way home we stopped by Gråsten Palace, one of the summer residences of the royal family. Though it is closed to the public, you can get to see it from across the lake.

All in all it was a great weekend full of new discoveries. Thanks to Ole and Birgitte for taking me on their adventures.

Ferry from Funen to Als

After leaving Egeskov on the 21st, we went on the ferry to the island of Als. This is such a beautiful area that I was glued to my camera taking pictures. The landscape gives one such a feeling of peace that I feel you could sit for hours in the fresh air there.

Before boarding the ferry.

 The coast of Funen from the ferry.

I hope you have enjoyed the sights from the ferry, and found them as peaceful as I did. As always, I love seeing the different areas of Denmark and am in awe of how naturally beautiful it is. 

Egeskov

When young, without exposure to an actual castle, one imagines them as a fanciful labyrinth of ornate rooms, hunting trophies, banquet halls, a draw bridge granting entry, and ample amounts of beautiful gardens to stroll in after a feast.  Many actual castles that one can go and visit do not match this fairytale description while others meet the description with 66 castle rooms, four garden mazes, and a five meter deep moat. The castle, and estate that I speak of is Egeskov.

The castle was built in 1554 as a defensive home to Frands Brockenhuus. The castle and extensive estate have been home to a several families. It was the ancestors of the current owners who renovated the castle and grounds in order to open the estate to the public. 

The estate now contains so many activities and sights to see that it is a challenge to fit into a single day. From myriad gardens, mazes, a tree canopy walk, a castle tour, horse drawn carriages, toy exhibits, clothing exhibits, and an extensive car collection, it is impossible not to find something of interest here. On the 21^st of July we spent the day at Egeskov touring through the various collections and the grounds. 

From vintage automobiles, a collection of carriages, motorcycles, and bicycles, Egeskov is one of the places to go if you are a fan of things on wheels. It was a great to see all that Egeskov has to offer, despite the summer rains looming overhead on that day.