"Built as an aristocratic country manor in 1746, Kokkedal Castle was a private residence for much of its existence, hosting salons and parties for Copenhagen ’s elite. Restored and opened as a hotel in 2011, the castle is now one of Denmark’s most luxurious stays, set on acres of sprawling parkland along the Danish coast, just 30 minutes north of Copenhagen. With its manicured gardens, afternoon tea on the terrace, and 18th-century–inspired decor, it feels like that friend’s country estate you’ve just been waiting for an invitation to—if, that is, your friend has an excellent restaurant in the original cellars, specializing in Danish and French country cuisine, and a world-class holistic spa ready to cater to your every whim. To top it all off, thanks to the castle’s location, both Copenhagen and the region’s myriad other sights are within an hour or two’s reach, either by train or by car."