Slagelse

If you want to get out in Southwest Zealand close to both nature and the beach, then a self-drive holiday to Slagelse is the right choice for you.

The city is located close to the Storebælt Bridge and only 90 km from Copenhagen, making it perfect for those who want to go on a driving holiday.

It is also one of the oldest cities in Denmark and one of the eight largest.

The city itself is good for those who want a nice shopping city. There are lots of shops and the large Vestsjællands Center, where you can easily spend several hours. There are large open squares and pedestrian streets full of stories. And while you're out shopping on the pretty streets, you'll be able to enjoy the view of St. Michael's Church, which towers like a beacon of the city's interesting past.

And should you take a break from shopping, the city actually has a past worth delving into.

The town was originally a pagan place of worship, but this was overcome by Sweyn Nordmands when he built the town's first stone church around 1000. Later in the 12th century, a monastery was added, and people now came from near and far to be healed by the monks. One of these monks was Saint Andrew, after whom the spring is named.

But it doesn't stop there, because if you want more history, you can head a little west of Slagelse. Here you will find one of Denmark's most amazing and important monuments of the past.

Here you can find Harald Bluetooth's great ring castle, which was his stronghold in the years 900. The castle was one of four built to defend Denmark against a German advance.

Are you more into art than history? Then the city has something for you too.

In the centre of Slagelse you will find the Red Tower, which was originally an old power station but now serves as an art gallery.

If you're into live art, pack the car with your evening clothes, because there's something for you here too.

Only 28 minutes south of Slagelse you will find the fantastic Boreby Theatre.

The theatre is located on Boreby Gåds inside the estate's huge barn which was built by Christian Friis in 1563. The theatre has modern facilities, technology and sound, and can compete with even the largest.

This perfect blend of new and old is why many people call the theatre Denmark's most beautiful.

Now you've been 28 minutes south, but what if you take 28 minutes north?

Yes, then you will find a 33,000 m² pure paradise.

This is Birkegården Gardens. This amazing little paradise can be visited both in summer and winter. Each season has something special to offer.

Here you can see the Danish/English garden, the Japanese garden, the Prairie garden, the Monastery garden, and the Perma garden.

For the children there is a huge playground and animals including: donkeys, sheep, goats, pigs, giant chickens, magpies, rabbits and guinea pigs.

South and north, but what about west?

Well, here's something.

If you take the car 18 minutes west, there's something here for golf lovers.

Here we have the world famous and much loved Korsør Golf Club.

So be sure to fill your trunk with golf gear, because its 9 and 18-hole courses are surrounded by stunning scenery, and the club is called by many one of Denmark's most beautiful.

So if you want a stay on Zealand, with a great selection of sights and experiences, then Slagelse is the place for you.