Dragsholm Castle is a must-see for all history and architecture enthusiasts! Originally built as a medieval fortress, the structure was transformed into a magnificent palace and then converted to its current Baroque form. The glorious castle is situated in the town of Odsherred, connected by a thin piece of land (known as a “drag”), to the island of Zealand in Denmark. There is a fantastic view of the waterfront from the castle grounds. Dragsholm Castle has played an important role in the development of its surrounding community through the ages. There are stories of mystical and magical experiences when visiting the castle–even alleged hauntings!
Interested in touring this mysterious and beautiful site? Read on for our helpful tips and advice on how to make your trip effortless!
Table of Contents
The Dragsholm Castle Shop has homemade delicacies for sale for you to take a piece of Denmark culture home with you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Dragsholm Castle Located?
On the islet of Odsherred, connected by a narrow strip of land to the island of Zealand, in Denmark.
When was Dragsholm Castle Built? Who Build It?
The castle was originally built in c. 1215 by the Bishop of Roskilde and rebuilt by nobleman Frederik Christian Adeler in the late-17th through early-18th centuries.
When is The Best Time to Visit the Castle?
During June, July, and August, the spring and summer months of the region.
What Other Monuments are Located Nearby?
Other noteworthy places to see nearby include the Aldersro Jættestuerne monument, only a 26-minute drive from the castle. The Peter Willemoes Monument and the Emperor William Monument are also popular destinations near the castle.
FOR HISTORY | BEAUTIFUL IMAGES | INTERESTING FACTS | TRAVEL TIPS
Early History
The pristinely white Dragsholm Castle (Danish: Dragsholm Slot) is one of the oldest historical landmarks in Denmark. It was built in 1215 by the Bishop of Roskilde. During the Middle Ages, additional building work was done on the castle site, including substantial fortification. The additional constructs ensured the castle withstood the Count’s Feud (1534-1536).
From 1536–1664 the castle belonged to the Crown after it had been seized during the Reformation. During the Crown’s ownership of the site, it was used as a prison for aristocratic and more affluent criminals. Each prison cell had a toilet and windows, and privileges were afforded to the prisoners in accordance with the severity of the crime they had committed against the King. During this period the daughter of the powerful and noble Bolves family was imprisoned at the castle.
After 1665, the castle became a ruin when it was blasted during the wars against Sweden. In 1694, the nobleman Frederik Christian Adeler (1668-1726) became the owner of the castle, which had only been minimally restored. He had the castle rebuilt in the Baroque style. Throughout their ownership of the castle, the Adeler family was responsible for much development and restoration work at the site. When there were no more family successors, the site passed to the Central Land Board and was later sold to J.F. Bøttger.
Hauntings
The castle is alleged to be haunted by up to 100 ghosts! There are many visitors and psychics who have described seeing and hearing the spirits of deceased people at the castle. It is worth mentioning some of the so-called “identified ghosts”. Reportedly, the spirit of the late Bishop of Roskilde can be heard woefully crying at night. The Bishop, who commissioned the castle’s construction, was imprisoned there later in his life.
There is also a story about a sad woman roaming the hallways, seemingly desperate to find someone – her lost love. Known as “The Lady in White”, she is said to have been the daughter of the wealthy Bolves family. After falling in love with–and becoming pregnant by–a hired laborer, her disapproving father had her imprisoned in a cell within Dragsholm Castle during the time it was functioning as an elite’s prison. She died whilst imprisoned.
Revisit More Historic Places Below or Read Further
Current Times
Today, Dragsholm Castle is an exquisite tourist destination filled with history and magical mystery! The grounds of the castle include a gorgeous herb garden and a beautiful lake. You can take a guided tour of the castle, or partake in various activities such as golf, yoga, running, and mountain biking.
A luxurious hotel is housed in the castle building, with modern suites and chic decor. The castle also boasts a wonderful restaurant featuring locally sourced produce. You are able to eat at the quaint bistro, or enjoy some traditional, local street food at the eatery on the terrace. Engulfed by the ambiance of the region’s history and culture, this is one of the most pleasurable ways to dine!
The picturesque castle is available to rent for special functions and occasions (wedding bells in Denmark, anyone?), as well as for business meetings and conferences. Truly, Dragsholm Castle has something for everyone to enjoy.
Interesting Dragsholm Castle Facts
- The hotel restaurant was awarded a Michelin star in the Michelin Star Nordic in 2017, and has maintained the rating to this day. Meals are described as a culinary delight by visitors.
- The castle was used as a location to film the movie “Babette’s Feast”.
- There is a spa facility at the castle.
- The Dragsholm Castle Shop has homemade delicacies for sale for you to take a piece of Denmark culture home with you!
- Dragsholm Castle became associated with the “Relais & Chậteaux” (world-famous prestigious hotel guide) in 2018.
Visiting Dragsholm Castle – Tips and Tricks
Are you excited about planning a trip to visit Dragsholm Castle after reading about it here? Use our helpful tips and tricks as you make your arrangements!
How to get to Dragsholm Castle?
There are flights into Copenhagen’s main international airport – Kastrup Airport – most days of the week.
The recommended travel method is a combination of train and bus. The trip takes around three hours and nine minutes on the train with two transfers along the route. The bus collects travelers at Fårevejle Station with an eight-minute ride to the castle stop. This route costs around €1.75 ($20 USD).
Another option is to rent a car at the airport and drive to the castle, around a one-hour trip at a cost of €11.5-€17.5 ($13-$20 USD) in fuel.
Ticket Prices, Visiting Hours & Travel Tips
Information was checked & updated on October 29, 2023.
Accommodation prices at the Dragsholm Castle Hotel start at around DKK 698 ($99 USD) per person. Check-in time is between 3pm and 5:30pm. The Castle Hotel offers free Wi-Fi and other amenities. There are also various hotel packages available including meals at the restaurant. Free parking is available at the site for guests. The hotel is pet-friendly and children are permitted.
Guided tours are available in Danish and English, with prices dependent on the number of members in the group. Guided tours must be booked in advance and ticket prices are available on request.
The gourmet restaurant requires bookings and prices for a meal starts at DKK 1800 ($255 USD). The castle bistro is open from noon to 10pm most days, bookings are also required there.
How Long Will It Take to Tour Around?
With so much to see at the castle site, plan for a visit two to three hours long. Even better, stay over at the hotel for a night or two!
Up to Date Information
For up to date ticket prices and visiting hours visit the official website: Dragsholm Castle In Gastronomy I Stay In Meetings In Companies (dragsholm-slot.dk)
Some words of advice and tips:
- Check the weather forecast for the date/s you will be visiting the castle. Be sure to dress appropriately as part of your tour experience will be outdoors.
- COVID: Check for any regulations, opening hours, and restrictions on the official Egeskov Castle website, as rules have been changed and adapted several times since the pandemic started.
