There are probably an even number of advantages whether to travel in high or low season. In low season (now) you avoid the crowds and pay lower prices; whereas in high season, you pay more and have to put up with way too many tourists. Conversely, high season is happening season; nightlife, restaurants, theater, games, music… and the weather is warm. In low season, in resort areas, 75% of the restaurants may be closed, little if any activities are scheduled, conveniences are fewer, and when the wind blows, it does so in cool weather. But places that are quaint often magnify their charm, without the crowds. It’s a change, an ebb, an annual ritual, and that’s what Diane and I are experiencing now, here on the Danish island of Ærø. We feel like we have it to ourselves, yet the choices are minimal.
I had planned this as a destination, since it is very popular with Danes, and because it’s relatively not too distant from Copenhagen. Looking at a map, today’s drive should not have taken little more than an hour, so we were miffed when the GPS estimated nearly 4 hours; we couldn’t figure out why. We quickly realized the reason when we sat and waited 20 minutes for a ferry which took 45 minutes to get us across, then had to take yet another 50 minute ferry ride, and we waited 1 hour and 40 minutes for that one.
For those who may not know, Denmark is partly a peninsula, but also, in large part, a conglomerate of islands, many of which are connected by bridges, but some, as we found out today, not.
I’ve already introduced you to Zealand, where Copenhagen is located, and Møn, Falster, and Lolland. Today we’ll show you a sliver of Langerland, and Ærø.
We had ample time to stroll through Rudkøbing on Langerland while waiting for the boat. Also it was a good time for a stogie.
Arriving on Langerland
Many farmed fields are edged with flowers
Rudkøbing
Marstal, on Ærø, is where we will spend the next couple of nights. Though it is not the town where we intend to spend much time, our accommodations are wonderful, and it is close to the ferry. We have taken an extensive walk through town and I tell you, I just love the picturesque homes, so colorful in their pastels; each window decorated with nice trinkets, and white laced curtains. Steep roofs, mostly of terracotta red tile. And as we stroll, unhurried bicyclists occasionally skirt by us.
Arriving at Marstal on Ærø
Our charming home is at the top of this very short street. This photo was taken from our doorstep.
Godnat!
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