Valdemars Slot

About the museum

King Christian IV had the castle built in 1639–1644 in the Renaissance style for his son Valdemar Christian, who however died in the Swedish wars without ever living there. After severe damage in the wars against Sweden in 1657–60, demolition threatened. The complex was saved by Admiral Niels Juel, who received it from the king as a reward after his victory in the naval battle in Køge Bay in 1677. His grandson Niels Juel gave the castle its present Rococo appearance in 1754, promoted the fruit growing of the tenant farmers on Tåsinge, and brought artists such as the poet Ambrosius Stub to his court.

In the 19th century the castle stood largely empty; in the Schleswig Wars the former chapel served as a military hospital. Around 1900 the estate was heavily in debt and was placed under administration. For a long time Valdemars Slot was accessible as a historic castle museum. After an inheritance dispute the property was sold, and in 2022 Louise Iuel-Brockdorff Albinus, a tenth-generation descendant of Niels Juel, bought it back – though without most of the original furnishings.

The empty rooms have since been used by the nonprofit Valdemars Slots Arts Foundation: since May 2025 it has shown contemporary art every summer in dialogue with the castle, riding hall, grain barn, and tea pavilion, complemented by artist residencies, music, and performances. In addition there are historical portraits by Carl Gustaf Pilo and Jens Juel, made for the castle. The castle is considered the largest private home in Denmark and the only royal castle in private ownership.

Highlights

• Castle of Christian IV from 1639–1644 with a Rococo remodeling of 1754
• Contemporary art in the castle, riding hall, grain barn, and tea pavilion
• Portraits by Carl Gustaf Pilo and Jens Juel made for the castle
• Location on the coast of Tåsinge with forest and shore paths
• Arrival by the historic excursion ship M/S Helge to the castle landing stage

Founded

2025

Operated by

Valdemars Slots Arts Foundation (VSAF)

Admission & discounts

Prices for the 2026 season. The ticket is valid from the booked time for the castle, park, and outbuildings all day; online booking recommended as places are limited. Card payment preferred, no foreign currencies.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: not available
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The entrance of the listed castle is up a flight of stairs; wheelchair-accessible access is currently not available. Dogs are welcome in the park, in the exhibition rooms only guide dogs.

Kids & families

• Stroller-friendly: not available

Strollers may not be taken into the castle.

Getting there & parking

The grounds provide access to the beach as well as to hiking and coastal paths.

Amenities & dining

• Café
• Wi-Fi: not available

Café at the entrance with indoor and outdoor seating (local drinks, light lunch dishes, cake), with a ticket only; picnics allowed in the park. Groups can reserve the restaurant room. Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases are not allowed in the castle.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Corporate events

Private celebrations and corporate events by individual arrangement; overnight stays also possible in artists' apartments or the owners' villa.

Plan your visit