Hotel Knudsens Gaard, Odense
Funen is one of my favourite destinations in Denmark for a number of reasons. There is a lot to do and see, the people are some of the nicest in Denmark, it has fantastic restaurants and great smaller islands close by.
Located in the charming city of Odense, Denmark, Hotel Knudsens Gaard offers a blend of elegance, modern comfort, and Danish history. As a four-star boutique hotel, it stands for its unique setting: An early 20th-century farmhouse complex converted into a peaceful urban retreat. The hotel is known for its warm hospitality, gourmet cuisine including the use of local ingredients, and serene atmosphere that feels like a countryside hotel despite being located in Odense.
Before my visit to Odense don’t remember having ever stayed overnight in the city. The city isn’t full of luxury hotels, but Hotel Knudsens Gaard is an ideal choice for discerning travellers with a similar feel to many Relais & Châteaux hotels. Back in 2011, I stayed at a Relais & Châteux hotel in Funen, Falsled Kro, which was a fantastic experience and combining the two properties in a trip to Funen could be a great idea. My stay at Knudsens Gaard began with a friendly check-in and talk with the receptionist before arriving at an impressive and charming room with a comfortable bed.
Odense itself is Denmark’s third-largest city and the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, the world-renowned fairy tale author. Visitors can explore a number of sites dedicated to his life and work, including the Hans Christian Andersen Museum and the preserved childhood home where he penned his earliest stories. The city mixes its historic roots with a vibrant cultural scene, bustling cafes, and pedestrian-friendly streets lined with colourful buildings and artisan shops. Hotel Knudsens Gaard serves as an ideal base to explore all that Odense has to offer, from its quaint city centre to its lively festivals and cultural events.
Beyond Odense, the hotel opens the door to the wonders of Funen (Fyn in Danish), the idyllic island on which the city is located. Funen is famous for its rolling green landscapes, thatched-roof cottages, fruit orchards, and scenic coastal drives. The island is dotted with charming villages and stately manors, while it also has 96 islands around it. Ærø and Avernakø are probably the inhabited ones I like the most, while Æbelø in the north is a unique experience that impressed me, where you can walk in the sea to the island itself.
Funen is also a great destination for cyclists, with its extensive network of bike-friendly roads connecting small towns, sandy beaches, and cultural landmarks. The island’s slow pace and natural beauty make it a great destination for a relaxing holiday. It is a fantastic destination which many visitors to Denmark unfortunately don’t get to experience, despite it being one of the best destinations, if not the best. Yeah, that is how impressed I am with Funen.
