Commonly referred to as the Fairy Tale Town of Denmark, Ærøskøbing is probably the best-preserved 18th century town in the country. Originally dating back to the early Middle Ages, the town recently celebrated its 750-year jubilee. In 2002, Ærøskøbing was awarded the Europe Nostra Prize for Cultural Heritage in recognition of its high architectural conservation standard and the continuous preservation efforts on the part of its inhabitants.
About Ærøskøbing
Events and Links
Regular town events and festivals occur during the summer season, including the Ærøskøbing Summer Festival and the annual Ærø Jazz Week (week 31). The Jazz week has taken place since 2003 and has featured prominent Danish jazz artists, such as NHØP, Palle Mikkelborg, Thomas Clausen, Alex Riel, Helena Davis, Jan Harbeck and others.
During Easter, you will have the opportunity to take part in the traditional “egg boiling” beach picnic which leaves the entire town empty. And did you know that Ærøskøbing is a popular wedding destination for couples from all over Europe? Will you be the next?
Visit the official Ærø website and the Ærø Guide 2012 for more information on Ærøskøbing.
What To Do in Ærøskøbing
mizori
First and foremost, take a stroll through town to enjoy Ærøskøbing’s relaxed, idyllic and friendly atmosphere, its cobbled streets, hollyhocks, and the small, well-preserved houses with their many unique details. Main attractions include the town square and the church, the “Bottle-Peter” bottle-ship collection, the petite “Doll House” in Smedegade, the Ærø Museum and Hammerich’s House, the home of the sculptor Gunnar Hammerich (1893-1977).
During the summer, you will find numerous restaurants and café’s with outdoor serving. Also visit the ongoing exhibition of the work of local artists on the harbour and the Saturday market in the town square featuring organic farm products. And of course, a family evening sunset scroll to observe the busy sailing life at the harbour with a delicious Ærø Special ice cream is a must! On rainy days the bowling alley and the local cinema are welcome alternatives to the beach.
The walk to the nearly beach of Vesterstrand with its idyllic and colourful beach huts will take you 20-30 minutes. Another 20 minutes brings you to the more dramatic coastline at the end of the Urehoved peninsula.
Provisions are easily accessed with a stroll to the local bakery (watch out for the early morning queues), two supermarkets in Ærøskøbing and the cooperative Brugsen supermarket in Marstal. Also try out the Saturday Market at the town square. A local butcher is located about 4 km from Ærøskøbing in the village of Dunkær and many local farms sell produce at the gate.