Sail & Bike Denmark - Sweden: Øresund Strait, Coastal Towns & Islands

Welcome to Denmark’s vibrant capital! Boarding begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Copenhagen harbor, near the Royal Danish Opera House. You’ll be welcomed by the captain, crew, and guides aboard your majestic tall ship, either the Atlantis or Antigua.

After settling into your comfortable cabin, enjoy a welcome drink and your first dinner on board. The evening briefing introduces you to life at sea, the cycling routes ahead, and your fellow travellers. Take a relaxing evening walk along the harbour promenade or watch the city lights from the ship’s deck.

Begin your first ride directly from the ship, cycling out of Copenhagen past the iconic Little Mermaid and the star-shaped Kastellet fortress. The route hugs the coastline northwards, through leafy suburbs and seaside towns.

Along the way, you may choose to stop at the renowned Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, perched on a bluff above the Øresund with stunning sculpture gardens and panoramic sea views.

Continue along quiet bike paths and forest trails to Helsingør, where you’ll spot the grand Kronborg Castle, famously known as Elsinore from Shakespeare’s Hamlet. After a day of coastal discovery, return to your ship docked nearby. Tonight, the crew sets sail across the Øresund to Sweden as you dine and unwind under the stars.

After a hearty breakfast aboard your ship in Helsingør, your day begins with a scenic ride along the dazzling coast of the Danish Riviera. This stretch is famous for its elegant seaside villas, sweeping sandy beaches, and charming small towns. Your first stop is Hornbaek, a cozy harbor town popular for its beach culture and laid-back vibe. You might enjoy a quick dip in the sea or grab a coffee at one of its waterfront cafés.

From here, the route turns inland, leading you through gently rolling hills and past peaceful farmlands. Soon you'll arrive in Esrum, home to a remarkable medieval Cistercian monastery nestled by Lake Esrum. Take some time to explore the historic abbey grounds, known for their serene beauty and cultural significance.

Your journey continues through golden wheat fields, alongside stately manors and romantic castles—echoes of Denmark’s royal past—before descending back into the heart of Helsingør. With the shorter cycling route, you’ll have ample time in the afternoon to visit Kronborg Castle, the UNESCO-listed fortress immortalised as Elsinore in Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

In the evening, as you enjoy dinner aboard, the ship sets sail across the Øresund to the charming Swedish city of Helsingborg, a lively cultural hub known for its historic architecture and modern innovation. After docking, take a peaceful post-dinner stroll to stretch your legs and soak in the coastal ambience.

Wake up in Sweden’s picturesque port city of Helsingborg. Begin cycling along the Skåne coastline, passing through rolling farmland and sleepy fishing villages. Stop in Landskrona, known for its moated Citadel, harbour cafes, and public art.

From there, you’ll hop on a short ferry to Ven Island, a tranquil paradise with golden fields, cliffs, and a laid-back pace of life. Visit the Tycho Brahe Museum, hike up to scenic viewpoints, or explore quirky artist studios and farm shops.

Later in the day, rejoin your tall ship by dinghy (Ven lacks a deep-water port). The ship anchors nearby for a peaceful night afloat as you enjoy dinner onboard.

Take a break from cycling and enjoy a full day at sea. The ship sails south through the Øresund Strait, passing beneath the spectacular Øresund Bridge, the architectural link between Denmark and Sweden.

Relax on deck, help the crew raise sails if you like, or simply enjoy the views and birdwatching. Depending on conditions, your ship will anchor either near Køge or Rødvig for the night. These peaceful harbors on southern Zealand offer a glimpse into Denmark’s maritime past.

Today's ride takes you to one of Denmark’s most remarkable natural sites—Stevns Klint, a 17 km chalk cliff coast and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cycle to the historic Højerup Church, perched on the cliff’s edge, and learn about the site’s geological significance as a record of the asteroid impact that wiped out the dinosaurs.

Continue on peaceful countryside roads to Køge, a medieval town with cobbled streets, Denmark’s oldest half-timbered house, and a charming town square. After rejoining the ship, you’ll sail across the strait to Malmö, Sweden’s third-largest city.

You can choose how to explore today. Stay in Malmö and ride a short loop showcasing Malmöhus Castle, the Turning Torso skyscraper, and vibrant harbor districts with modern cycling infrastructure.

Alternatively, take the longer ride inland to the academic city of Lund, home to Scandinavia’s oldest university and a magnificent 12th-century cathedral. Cycle through rolling countryside and return via a different scenic route.

In the evening, gather for the Captain’s Dinner and raise a toast to a week of adventure across two countries.