The best "hygge" spots near Copenhagen to chill after a business meeting

What is “hygge” (pronounced Hoo-gah), by the way? It means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with nice people. So, if you wish to be happy like a Dane, why don’t you take advantage of your business trip to embrace the “hygge” philosophy?

Relax in a cosy haven, your tired body will thank you

Forget about networking in Copenhagen. Instead, rent a car and drive 25 km to get to the Skodsborg Kurhotel, a former summer residence of King Fredrick that has been converted into a spa hotel. The Danes are very smart people who realised a long time ago that being pampered does wonders for your wellbeing.

Skodsborg Strandvej 139, 2942 Skodsborg

Imagine yourself being transported back in time

Visit a different world! Take your car and drive to the Lyngby Open-Air Museum which is 15 km outside the city. There, you can be transported back centuries ago while wandering through the 50 traditional buildings (authentic farmhouses, agricultural buildings, dwellings and mills), and also discover ancient breeds of animals.

Kongevejen 100, 2800 Kongens, Lyngby

Reconnect with your inner child 

If you drive 10 minutes north of Copenhagen you will arrive at Dyrehavsbakken, the world’s oldest amusement park, that opened in 1583, and which is in the famous Dyrehaven forest. Among the 32 rides, you can have a go on the famous rollercoaster built in 1932, or choose to bring out the playful child in you and enjoy the arcades games.

Dyrehavevej 62, 2930 Klampenborg

Just eat what you want for once

One of the key principles of “hygge” is to spend time over a good meal with friends. Also, Danes don’t kid around when it comes to fresh fish. North of the capital, in Helsingør, The Fish Project serves the best lobster fish and crispy chips in the country.

Ny Kronborgvej 2, Elsinore Street Food, Helsingør 3000

Make nature great again

Danish people love a good walk. Follow their lead and drive 20 km till you reach Hareskoven Forest, near Herlev. This forest is one of the oldest in the country. Stroll about and hug a beech tree, the Danish national tree, and bow to the oak, aka “The Tailor”, known to be the largest tree in the forest.

Hareskoven, Skovlystvej 2, 3500 Værløse