Cycling in Denmark

One of the first things I noticed upon arriving in Copenhagen is that bikes appeared to outnumber cars.  Cycling in Denmark just became something I had to do.  I didn't have to wait long, as cycling in Denmark was on the agenda for the Sustainability Tour I was already signed up for.  We hopped on our bikes and cycled to BioM, an organic restaurant in Copenhagen. 

Proof that I survived my first cycling in Copenhagen rush hour experience

After a few tasty organic appetizers, our real adventure began according to our Danish guide -”cycling in Copenhagen rush hour."  It quickly became apparent that the Danes are in good shape as they effortlessly whizzed past us on their bikes.  At a stop light, it wasn't uncommon for there to be 30 bikes!  After the cycling in Denmark part of the tour was over, we each insisted on getting a photo with our bike - proving we had just survived cycling in Copenhagen rush hour.  I couldn't wipe the grin off my face!

Cycling along the river in picturesque Odense Denmark

 Unknown to me at the time, my cycling in Denmark days were not over.  A few days later we set out on a tour of Odense, home to Hans Christian Anderson.  There our first stop was to pick up bikes.  I was so thrilled to have another opportunity for cycling in Denmark and especially in this picturesque city.  It was a Sunday and our guides took us on a bike path by the tree lined river where we stopped and enjoyed a picnic lunch.  Cycling in Odense had a much slower and more relaxed pace than bustling Copenhagen.  It was the complete opposite experience of cycling in Copenhagen rush hour, but just as enjoyable, if not more so.

While cycling in Denmark I just felt good.  Perhaps it was the exercise, the fresh air, doing something local, or knowing you are doing something good for the planet.  Who knows, but I wouldn't be surprised if all the cycling the Danes do contributed in part to why Denmark is consistently rated as one of the happiest nations on earth.

Note:   the "Sustainable Copenhagen Tour" and "Hans Christian Anderson Tour" were courtesy of Wonderful Copenhagen.  

You may also be interested in:
 My Top Ten Experiences in Denmark
Top 10 Things to Experience in Odense Denmark
The Tinderbox, Where Children's Dreams Come to Life in Denmark

5 Things You Should Know Before Cycling in Denmark

J Day in Denmark