Denmark is a diverse Scandinavian country, though that might perhaps not be so obvious if judging by its relief which makes it one huge flat land. But it’s far from being boring; Viking villages, majestic castles and croplands all take turns dotting the landscape. Denmark is a land encompassing a single peninsula and numerous islands. On one of these islands lies the country’s capital, Copenhagen. Danhostels are a recommended place to stay and they’re part of Hostelling International. HI members get 10% off Danhostel bookings.
The aim of the organisation is to work for the good of its guests and hostels, and it’s also putting a lot of effort into improving its accommodation. The hostels are owned by local authorities, independent institutions and private owners. The organisation’s financed solely from membership fees, as it doesn’t receive public funding. Each Danhostel is managed by a host, a host couple or the whole family, all of whom are very familiar with the local area. Don’t hesitate and ask about ideas and tips on exciting trips, activities, the best food and other great things.
The first Danhostel opened in 1930 and now almost a million travellers stay at more than sixty hostels across the whole country each year. The hostels are modern and suitable for various large groups. Throughout the years, they’ve become a popular place for school camps, events and all kinds of gatherings. They offer the possibility of organising lessons or interesting workshops. The hostels use a five-star rating system that’s based on thirty-two objective criteria for rating buildings, common spaces, rooms, basic services and interior furnishings.
To reminisce about the old school days you can stay in a former school at Flensborg Fjord Danhostel that is shared by both Denmark and Germany. The hostel is surrounded by wonderful nature, bicycle trails and Viking villages. What could be more beautiful than seaside holidays? You can now enjoy the seaside on a small island of Mors where peace and relaxation are waiting for you. Danhostel Nykøbing Mors is located on sand dunes right next to a forest. Danhostel Kalundborg Vandrerhjem is a hostel with certificates and surrounded by greenery. It’s located in the western part of Denmark’s largest island, Zealand. It was one of the first accommodation establishments that were awarded the Ecolabel, while the certificate that proves its friendliness towards people with disabilities is of equal importance. There are bicycle trails and golf courses nearby. Danhostel Rømø is situated in a captain’s house that was built in the 18th century. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted with some coffee and tea. The walls are full of paintings of artists and outside you can see the Wadden Sea National Park spread out in front of you. The hostel is focused on sustainability, which is why it offers local food and drinks. At the edge of the blue lakes in Europe’s largest limestone quarry is the Danhostel Faxe. Marvel at the lakes that were once home to sharks, crocodiles and squids, and find their fossils. The hostel is located in typical red houses where you’ll be served delicious homemade ice cream.
Denmark is a paradise for cyclists and the country’s hostels are adjusted accordingly. They offer everything, from bike rentals to practical advice. Many hostels have a bed+bike sign, which means you’ll be provided with room for your bicycle, repair tools and a map of bicycle trails. One of such hostels if the Danhostel Blåvandshuk that is teeming with various activities. You’ll have free access to the gymnastics centre, gym, water park and tennis courts. You can rent a bike and ride all the way to the North Sea or watch the famous mountain bike race. If you want to experience the hustle and bustle of the Danish capital, Danhostel Copenhagen City will be the perfect choice. The 16-storey building has 192 rooms. The hostel is a gorgeous example of the elegant Danish architecture.
Don’t miss out on the country’s colourful capital, Copenhagen! You can walk along many canals and admire the colourful houses and docked boats. The canals can be best viewed from the water, so take a boat tour down one of the most famous canals of Nyhavn, all the way to the Little Mermaid statue. If you’re seeking relaxation, you can visit the Tivoli Park where gardens and fairground atmosphere are waiting for you. With a special ticket you can enjoy unlimited rides on various trains in a single day. A tour of the colourful Nørrebro district is quite a unique experience. It’s home to hippies and more than fifty different nations. You can also go on a trip to see other great points in Danish history on the island of Zealand where Copenhagen is also located. The trip includes the royal city of Roskilde with its famous Viking museum that displays models of Viking ships. This is followed by a tour of two great Renaissance castles, Frederiksborg and Kronborg, the latter also known as the Hamlet’s castle. The only part of Denmark that’s linked to the mainland Europe is the Jutland peninsula. There, you’ll visit Denmark’s second largest city, Aarhus, thanks to the tour organised by the locals. In Copenhagen, you can stop by at the National Gallery to admire the greatest works of Danish artists from various time periods.
If you want to learn more, you can check out this guide on the organisation’s website. It includes each region and will help you plan your trip to Denmark.
There are already many Lonely Planet guides for Denmark. You can choose from classic travel guides encompassing the entire country or just the one dedicated to the its capital, Copenhagen. Or you can also learn Danish with the help of a phrasebook before setting out on your trip.