Scan Magazine | Inn of the Month | Denmark
Photo: VisitVestsjælland
Inn of the Month, Denmark
Authentic inn with idyllic surroundings Since the 14th century, the people of Reersø have been fiercely committed to their independence and community. Throughout the centuries, the islanders avoided the fires, influences and changes that blew through the rest of Denmark, leaving the well-maintained thatched farmhouses in the idyllic village intact. Run by chef Jens Reinhard Nielsen – just like his father and grandfather before him – Reersø Inn has been an integral part of the village since 1639. By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Reersø Kro
When medieval Reersø islanders rescued Queen Margrethe I from a storm on the Storebælt Strait, she granted them special privileges that spared them from serfdom and certain taxes through to modern times. The people of Reersø lived off the land and sea, largely governing themselves, and even bought the island off the local lord in 1802. No longer quite an island, Reersø remains unspoilt and unique, though locals are much keener to share their idyllic way of life with strangers than their ancestors. At Reersø Kro, itself a classic thatched white farmhouse, Nielsen and his staff retain the link to the local area. “We change the menu according to which local ingredients are in season,” he explains. “Produce from 94 | Issue 92 | September 2016
our neighbouring farms are our most important ingredient.” Nielsen, a chef, inherited Reersø Kro seven years ago. Though the inn oozes history and cosy traditions, it has been modernised and features 13 comfortable en suite rooms for overnight guests, easy handicap access as well as conference and events rooms with modern technology and space for up to 180 people. Reassuringly, the kitchen has been brought into the 21st century too and is equipped with an ‘elite’ hygiene rating. The menu, on the other hand, remains classically Danish with specialities such as eel and plaice. “Most of our fish is caught straight from the strait, so it doesn’t come much
fresher than that,” Nielsen says. “Actually, we have our own live eel barrels, so I suppose that’s even fresher.” Fishermen are not the only ones attracted to the local fish: porpoises and sea birds are frequent visitors, while deer and other animals can be spotted in the local forests. Diners and overnight visitors at the inn can take advantage of staff members’ great local knowledge. They take pride in personable service and will gladly guide visitors towards the local sites, including the quiet, unspoilt beaches, idyllic harbour and Reersø’s numerous art galleries. “What I’m most proud of,” Nielsen says, “is the inn’s intimacy and cosy atmosphere.” Just half an hour from Kalundborg and the bridge connecting Sealand and Funen, Reersø and its inn remain among the easiest and most authentic ways to recharge at the slower pace of centuries past. For more information, please visit: www.reersoekro.dk