What is it that Denmark has to offer that makes it the happiest country in the world? Signe Benn Hansen explores four Danish resorts to find out what they have to offer.
When Denmark is repeatedly named the happiest country in the world, it is not just because of the well-functioning welfare state. It is also because Danes are simply experts at enjoying life and this is reflected in the small nation’s wellness sector. All over the country, big and small spa resorts offering a winning combination of style, comfort and Danish wellbeing are flourishing. We take a look at four of the Danes’ favourite resorts – all just a short flight from London’s hustle and bustle.
Skallerup Seaside Resort
The sound of waves crashing on the shore and the fresh smell of the ocean accompany you everywhere at Skallerup Seaside Resort. Previously known mainly for its many family activities, the resort is today equally loved for its absolutely delicious Romulus Spa. The spa, which is the only Roman-themed spa in Denmark, combines an authentic historic interior with a relaxed atmosphere and heavenly bodily treats. You can enjoy panoramic views of the distinct coastal landscape from the spa’s relaxation area as well as the outdoor hot pool and sauna. The Romulus spa is not open for children but there are plenty of other offers for the whole family: a 25-meter indoor swimming pool, in- and outdoor playlands, an indoor waterpark, bowling alley, petting farm and horseback riding.
Skallerup Seaside Resort is located in North Jutland 50 minutes from Aalborg (direct Norwegian flights from Gatwick).
- The resort offers spa and wellness packages, which include accommodation, entrance to Romulus, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Prices start around £113pp. skallerup.dk
Ystad Saltsjöbad
When it comes to spa-ing, the rivalry between Danes and Swedes is put aside as Danes flock across the strait to Sweden. A popular destination is the Ystad Saltsjöbad, serenely located on the Swedish seaside 75 minutes from Copenhagen. The spa hotel offers a well-planned, laid-back spa experience with broad appeal and luxurious details, such as a bright panoramic fireplace lounge, a new “Creek experience” section and a delicious Scandinavian breakfast buffet. With easy access and a relaxed, joyful atmosphere, the spa is perfect for a quick girls getaway.
Located on the outskirts of the small Swedish town Ystadt, approx 60/80 minutes from Copenhagen Airport by car/train crossing the Oresund strait.
- Classic spa packages start around £154pp and include a three-course dinner, breakfast buffet, and access to spa facilities. ysb.se
Hotel Vejlefjord
Hotel Vejlefjord is an old sanatorium from 1900, which was transformed into a beautiful 4-star hotel and spa in 2005. Wedged into the green hillside of Vejle Fjord, its main attractions are the stunning views, beautiful old main building and the large, stylish wellness complex. The spa includes a number of thermal baths beautifully designed in granite as well as outside baths, wet and dry saunas and a brand new Thalasso spa. The hotel is surrounded by a large park and beech forest perfect for romantic evening walks. Accommodation varies in size and design – for the best experience book one of the main building’s park and sea view rooms.
Hotel Vejlefjord is located in central Jutland, a 50-minute drive from Billund (direct flights with BA from Heathrow and City Airport and with Ryanair from Stansted).
- The spa package includes accommodation, entrance to spa, dinner and breakfast. Prices start at £170pp. hotelvejlefljord.dg
Kurhotel Skodsborg
Danes love paleo fitness and cross-fit (maybe it is in our Viking genes), and Kurhotel Skodsborg is the perfect place to try both. For more than a century, the spa hotel, which is located on the beautiful coastline of North Zealand, has been a haven for Copenhageners longing for peace and restoration. Today, the health resort has created a distinctively modern Nordic wellness experience thanks to a large fitness centre and a new minimalistic spa designed by Henning Larsen Architects. Included in this is its new Nordic kitchen, which among other things serves a delicious Paleo smørrebrød (open sandwich) lunch and an impressive five- or eight- course dinner menu paired with wine or fresh juice. An advantage of the spa hotel is the fact that it is just 20 minutes from Copenhagen as well as the beautiful Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.
Kurhotel Skodsborg is located approx. 45 minutes from Copenhagen Airport by car or train
- The hotel offers a number of different spa packages. Prices, which include accommodation, breakfast and access to spa and fitness facilities, startinig at £108pp. skodsborg.dk
