Have you explored Copenhagen's backyard? That's the affectionate nickname for the eastern Danish islands of South Zealand, Lolland-Falster, and Møn. As a family that frequently visits Denmark, we recently planned a May holiday getaway to southern Denmark—just a short drive away. We based ourselves for four nights in a stunning coastal accommodation in Bogense.
Sometimes, even great plans inspire tweaks for something even better. Our initial Danish itinerary evolved thanks to our son's excitement and your enthusiastic feedback on my previous blog. Here's how we expanded it to include these eastern islands.
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"We're going on holiday by boat!" Our son proudly announced to Grandma. "Denmark's only reachable by boat." He lit up, thrilled by big vehicles like planes and ferries. Reality check: Southern Denmark is just under 800 km from our home—far closer than Spain or Italy, and fully accessible by car.
To illustrate the route, we searched online. Our tech-savvy kids quickly mapped a path through Germany to Puttgarden, then ferry to Lolland-Falster. "See, Mom? Boat it is!"
Our plans didn't originally include Lolland-Falster, but a striking photo of a ferry against a blue sky sparked understanding for his passion.
Ferry or not, excitement built for our southern Denmark trip. Feedback on my blog—including via Facebook—confirmed we'd chosen wisely, with families raving about the May holidays.
Yet, the Lolland-Falster area, South Zealand, and Møn beckoned. Your tips highlighted Møns Klint's iconic chalk cliffs, complete with stunning YouTube and Instagram shares. The scenery alone demands a visit.
Consulting Dansk.nl, Denmark's holiday experts, proved invaluable. They advised that a day trip to Møns Klint from Bogense (over 200 km, nearly 3 hours one way) was ambitious but doable with adjustments.
The two-week May break allowed extension: fulfilling the ferry dream while hitting Møns Klint. From Utrecht, it's just 575 km to the Puttgarden ferry—a relaxing 20-minute crossing to ease into vacation mode.
Low-season May pricing makes it affordable, with accommodations from €199.
Our hybrid itinerary: eastern islands first, then southern Denmark. With our daughter's CITO exams looming, this break offers essential relaxation. Nine days total, using just four vacation days thanks to Easter Monday.
Dansk.nl recommended starting at Lalandia Rødby, near the harbor on a sandy beach with ferry views. Four nights here provide family downtime before heading to Bogense on Funen.
Lalandia Rødby is a dream for kids aged 10-12, with Scandinavia's largest waterslide, the Tornado, in a 28°C pool paradise. Whirpools, saunas, playgrounds, mini-golf, beach, and eateries ensure non-stop fun—even an ice rink for winter vibes.
Yet, we'll venture out to recharge amid nature and local gems like Møns Klint.
These massive stone figures in a circle—rumored to "sing"—offer impressive views. A must-see.
Near Maribo, this vast estate features safari drives and a Dino Forest with life-sized dinosaurs. Ice cream portions match the scale!
In Maribo by Søndersø lake, Frilandsmuseet showcases historic half-timbered homes. A steam train links Maribo and Bandholm—perfect for vehicle fans.
Denmark's largest climbing park pairs 10 obstacle courses with a striking observation tower amid nature.
Hunt fossils at this dramatic site (rent tools at Geomuseum Faxe). Pack sturdy shoes and sunscreen.
This Easter, we're island-bound. No egg hunts at Lalandia, but Denmark's Gækkebrev tradition—anonymous rhyming letters with dots for name length—leads to chocolate eggs.
Danes feast on pickled herring, snaps, and beer with loved ones, toasting "Skål!" Copenhagen's doable day trip, but we'll prioritize local relaxation—saving it for future visits. Dansk.nl can guide next time.
This post was created in collaboration with Dansk.nl
