Kurhotel Skodsborg, Denmark Hotel

Denmark

The art deco-influenced architecture of seaside Kurhotel Skodsborg speaks to a long-standing tradition of relaxation and wellbeing. The first to fall under the charm of this place was King Frederik VII, who chose it as a summer residence. A few decades later, in 1898, its doors opened as one of Denmark’s first sanatoriums, at a time when the benefits of sea air were prescribed by doctors and swimsuits could extend well below the knees. Over a century later, it continues to heal the body and soul as an elegant spa hotel. Featuring a soothing palette of off-white, beige and blue hues, plush sofas and pale wood furniture throughout the lounge and 96 chic rooms, this is Danish hygge at its finest. Its charming bathing pier, stretching out over the Sound, tops it off.

The multi award-winning spa is the hotel’s pièce de résistance. Designed by Henning Larsen Architects (the crew behind Reykjavík’s Harpa concert hall), facilities include a 100sq m hydro spa with hydromassage, sensory sky shower, salt grotto and a 21m central pool. Treatments cover bespoke face and body massages as well as the unmissable Saunagus, where essential oils are poured over the hot stones. And the holistic approach continues in the stylish Brasserie Carl, where everything is sourced from responsible producers and sustainable fisheries.

Located a mere 20-minute train ride north of Copenhagen, the hotel opens the door to the delights of North Zealand. Starting with neighbouring Dyrehaven, a Unesco-protected haven of forests and parkland, perfect for rambling or cycling – keep eyes peeled for the red and fallow deer that call the area home. Highlights include the recently restored Hermitage, Christian’s VI’s hunting lodge, a golf course and the former industrial village of Raadvad, now housing art and craft workshops, on the shores of Lake Stampedam.

Doubles from £213.

Words by Marina Spironetti.

This article was taken from the June 2025 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.