Follow the H. C. Andersen Trail
Walk in the footsteps of Hans Christian Andersen, the famous author of many fairytales.
By this App you can explore the story of the life and times of the poet and presents practical information about access conditions, accommodation and opening hours. Although many of the places are open to the general public, some are private residences that may only be viewed from a distance.
There are fifteen castle and manors included in the route on the App, and we will highlight some of them here, that are open for public.
Broholm Castle
Through the novel "Only a Fiddler" you will find clear indications about Hans Christian Andersen`s impressions of Broholm Castle. The famous writer went to Broholm in 1836, and Andersen writes so many fine and interesting details about the place.
A little excerpt from the book - “Briskly they walked towards Broholm Estate. The leaves of the forest were transparent, the violets grew in bushes, the woodland fields were in full bloom, and between the trees, they could look out across the water to Langeland, which rose high above the sea with its woods and windmills.”
Today Broholm is an excellent castle manor hotel, where you can stay for a night or two with unforgettable memories. You really fell like a baron by staying here, truly.
Egeskov Castle
Hans Christian Andersen writes about Egeskov Castle in his diary. He arrived at Egeskov in August 1842. It is very easy to see from his writings, how excited he was about the castle but especially the garden, which he named one of the best on the island Funen.
Today Egeskov Castle is one of the biggest attractions on Funen, where you can go and explore the buildings from in and outside. Egeskov is also known as a real family place because of the Automobile Museum, kid-friendly rides and restaurant and cafe. So don`t hesitate, Egeskov Castle is the perfect choice for a family excursion.
Hindsgavl Castle
The reason why Hans Christian Andersen was so excited about Hindsgavl was that the castle is incredibly beautiful located. The author discovers a unique vantage point near Hindsgavl, which makes him so excited that he recommend it to a female friend in 1843. He writes to her "... it is close to Middelfart, and from somewhere in the garden you can enjoy the finest views on Fyn - or maybe even in Denmark. "
Today you can still enjoy the beautiful view here, and why not stay at the castle for a night, which today is one of the finest castle hotels in Denmark. You will be able to understand what Hans Christian Andersen meant.
Valdemar Castle
When Hans Christian Andersen visited Valdemar Castle, he got memories for life. Especially the old family portraits made a big impression on him, but also a certain woman touched his heart for the first time.
The famous author writes: “We saw King Valdemar’s Castle, where I was interested in particular in the old portraits. For example, there was one of a lady from the Juul Family that made a deep impression on me – it was the first female face that touched my heart.”
If you decide to go and experience the castle today, you will not get disappointed. The owners invite you in to view their private rooms that are furnished with a rich selection of antiques and family portraits.
Through the tour around in the castle, you get an amazing feeling about the history of the castle.
