Skagen, Denmark
Description
View cruises with Skagen, DenmarkOn Denmark's northern tip, where the Baltic meets the North Sea, lies Skagen (pronounced "Skain"). Skagen is a fishing town with a maritime history that reaches back to the early Middle Ages. Boasting white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and stunning natural landscapes, the area has lured artists since the mid-19th century, drawn to the radiant light's interplay on the rugged landscapes, seascapes and cityscapes. The town has been featured in world-famous paintings by artists such as Michael and Anna Ancher and P.S. Krøyer, and the area has long enjoyed a rich artistic heritage. Guided bicycle excursions give a unique, up-close perspective on this pretty town, with its picturesque white-picket fenced neighborhoods featuring brightly painted yellow houses crowned by red-tiled roofs. Stroll through one of the many art galleries and museums, such as Skagen Art Museum and the Skagen Odde Nature Center. When it's time to taste the delicacies of the region, head to Pakhuset for a chance to discover one of Skagen's most iconic foods-marinated herring accompanied by Aquavit, a traditional spirit of Scandinavia infused with spices and herbs. A visit to Grenen, where the North and Baltic Seas converge, is a must for all voyagers-you can even straddle the waters with a foot in each mighty sea.
Points of Interest
- Skagen Art Museum
- Grenen
- The Grey Lighthouse
- Pakhuset
- Skagen Odde Nature Center
- Bangsbo Fort
- Jutland Resistance Museum
- Voergaard Manor House
More about Skagen, Denmark Points of Interest
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Skagen Art Museum -
Exhibiting works by members of Denmark's thriving 19th and early 20th century artistic colony of Skagen painters, the museum houses more that 1,800 works of art, drawings, and handicrafts, and the gardens are adorned with sculptures.
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Grenen -
At this long, narrow sandbar and the northernmost land mass in Denmark, the North and Baltic Seas converge, and it is possible to place one foot in each sea for a comical photo opportunity.
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The Grey Lighthouse -
Climb the 210 steps to the very top of the 46-meter-tall lighthouse and enjoy the spectacular view of the top of Denmark. Inside the lighthouse building discover a virtual tour into the world of migratory birds. Skagen is a hotspot for migratory birds, and Grenen is one of Europe's best bird migration spots. Watch the Birders when they ring mark the birds and do some bird spotting on your own.
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Pakhuset -
At this charming fish restaurant and harborside café set within a fisherman's cottage dating to 1913, guests dine on a tasting menu that features five different types of herring accompanied by Aquavit-a traditional spirit of Scandinavia.
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Skagen Odde Nature Center -
A unique museum dedicated to the artistic effects of water, wind, sand and light on the environment. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, this modern structure, surrounded by the landscapes of Denmark's northernmost region, exhibits Danish contemporary art.
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Bangsbo Fort -
Located 45 minutes south of Skagen lies Bangsbo Fort, a series of defenses established by the Germans during World War II have been converted into a fascinating interactive museum, detailing the conditions under which the German soldiers stationed in the bunker lived.
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Jutland Resistance Museum -
45 minutes south of Skagen lies Bangsbo Manor, the barn of a manor home is the setting for the Jutland Resistance Museum, detailing the local Danish Resistance Movement and the lives of the civilian population under occupation during World War II.
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Voergaard Manor House -
70 minutes south of Skagen lies one of Denmark's most pristine Renaissance buildings, this grand castle boasts the largest private collection of French artifacts outside of France. Ghost stories and local lore surround its history, making for intriguing guided tours.
