Denmark’s so-called “whiskey belt” is Denmark’s gold coast. A world of beaches, luxury villas, verdant forests and high-life attractions. In an egalitarian nation that loves its beer (think Carlsberg and Tuborg) wealthy residents of the region are said to prefer a shot of whiskey, hence the name. Stretching along some 40 kilometers of coastline north of Copenhagen, the region is a refreshing and easily accessible alternative to visiting the city. Here are some of the highlights.

1. The route of the daisies

The 40 kilometer Strandvejen (beach road) from Copenhagen to Helsingor runs the entire length of the Whiskey Belt. It is also known as the route of the daisies. This is because its path is marked with the ‘Daisy’ of Margrethe II (popularly known as Queen Margaret) indicating an area of ​​outstanding natural beauty. The road runs parallel to the Oresund Strait that separates Denmark from Sweden.

Although rental cars are readily available, it’s just as easy to explore the route by train (the ‘coast line’) and by bike. Bicycles can be rented locally at low prices and can be taken on the trains.

2. Bellevue Beach

Arguably the most glamorous beach in Scandinavia, Bellevue is the place for Denmark’s ‘Beautiful People’ to see and be seen each summer. The elegance and charm extend to the graceful architecture of the complex. Much of this was created in the mid-20th century by ‘Modern Danish’ architect and designer Arne Jacobsen. Even the blue and white striped lifeguard towers and white beachside kiosks are his handiwork. In the ‘Jacobsen Restaurant’ everything, from the building, the interior design, the furniture and the cutlery, bears his mark.

3. The deer park

Relax in this cool dark fairy tale forest of majestic oak trees. In fact, even Bambi himself would feel at home here. The Dyrehaven (deer park) was formally the royal hunting ground. It was first fenced off by the King of Denmark in 1669. Today it is home to around 2,000 deer and a favorite spot for walkers and hikers. And be sure to enjoy traditional Danish cuisine at the old-world restaurant ‘Peter Lieps Hus’, a former game warden’s farmhouse.

4. Bakken Amusement Park

Nestled deep within Deer Park, the world’s oldest carnival park is a blaze of light and sound. This is where Copenhageners relax and have fun in a raunchy and burlesque atmosphere. The park has more than 100 attractions and amusements, food stalls, dancing, ice cream, cabaret, open

air restaurants and bars. Not to be missed!

5. Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

With lovely gardens overlooking the sea towards Sweden, the Louisiana museum features one of the largest and best collections of modern (20th century) art in the world. A large part of the museum’s charm lies in its unique location. The spaciousness and relaxed outdoor atmosphere of the gardens make this a popular family destination. The name Louisiana comes from the property’s former owner’s three successive wives, each named Louise!

6. Karen Blixen Museum

Set in a densely planted 40 acre park is the charming Rungstedland Manor House. This is the former family home of Karen Blixen, famous romantic author of ‘Out of Africa’ and other works. Since her death in 1962, the farm has served as a museum and bird sanctuary.

The house is a reminder of the privileged elegance of a bygone era. The gardens remain as they were, a tribute to Blixen’s horticultural talents and his vision of beauty.

7. Hamlet’s Castle

At the end of the Whiskey Belt, where the Baltic and North Sea meet, stands the magnificent Renaissance Kronborg Castle in Helsingor. This is actually better known as ‘Elsinore’ castle from William Shakespeare’s play ‘Hamlet – Prince of Denmark’. Hamlet himself is probably based on the Danish legend of Amleth detailed in the writings of the Danish medieval historian Saxo Grammaticus.

The best time to plan a visit to the Whiskey Belt is from mid-June to late August, when the weather (and beach life) is at its best and the landscape at its greenest. Out of season, it is still a pleasure to visit, with the advantage of fewer crowds.