Denmark's Versailles is a dazzling, gigantic, Dutch Renaissance-style fortress-palace, with the vision doubled by its position on the mirror-like lake-moat Slotsø. Unlike Kronborg, Frederiksborg Slot – completed in 1620 under King Christian IV – was built for enjoyment and not defense, and the interior is packed to the elaborate rafters with over-the-top artwork, including hundreds of portraits, tapestries, carvings and opulent furnishings.
Slotskirken
Especially dazzling is the Slotskirken (Chapel), where Danish monarchs were crowned between 1671 and 1840. It retains the original interior commissioned by Christian IV, one of the few areas to survive the 1859 fire. It's a deliciously ornate confection of gold and pink-cheeked cherubs, with the altar, font and pulpit overlooked by a priceless 1610 Compenius organ (played on Thursdays from 1.30pm to 2pm).
Interior Highlights
Other rooms in the castle were restored to their original appearances in the 19th century, most fantastically the richly embellished Riddershalen, a vast ballroom. The eye-boggling Audience Chamber contains trompe l'oeil details and a portrait of big-nosed Christian V styled as a Roman emperor. The Museum of National History is worth a look for its portrait gallery of kings, queens and VIPs.
Grounds
North of the castle is Slotshaven, extensive parklands. The formal baroque garden (open from 10am to sunset) is made up of perfect terraces. In the Romantic garden, Indelukket, 18th-century rigidity melts into a wilder 19th-century notion of gardening. North again is the oak wood of Lille Dyrehave. Complete your visit on the enchanting, diminutive Frederiksborg ferry.
