In the middle of Vejle Ådal, close to Skibet, lies Haraldskær Manor in hilly terrain shaped during the Ice Age. Haraldskær Manor houses the Haraldskær Sinatur Hotel & Conference, but its history dates back to the 15th century. There are also many beautiful nature trails for walking and cycling in the area.
History
The manor is situated on an old fortified site but is first mentioned in 1434, when the owner was Niels Friis. Haraldskær remained in the Friis family until 1601. Among other things, they were responsible for the construction of the current main building, which dates from 1536. Since then, the main building has burned down and been rebuilt several times. The last member of the Friis family, Albert Friis, was a privy councillor and bailiff at Riberhus. In 1590, he built the current main wing to the west, which rises over a vaulted cellar in two storeys. To the east, he built a square staircase tower with a special entrance to the cellar. After his death, Haraldskær was owned by a number of distinguished families.
In 1912, an additional wing was built, giving Haraldskær a knight’s hall as well. In 1916, Haraldskær was bought by manufacturer C.M. Hess in Vejle, who restored the main wing and rebuilt the dilapidated side buildings.
Since 1969, the main building and 30 acres of land have been operated by the Danish Union of Teachers, which runs a conference center on the site. Throughout the 1970s, the listed main building was carefully modernized, and a new wing with guest rooms was added. The farm buildings and 270 hectares of land are owned by Vejle Municipality.
To this day, Haraldskær holds many stories from the past. The large post that forms the supporting structure in the old staircase tower is said to originally come from an old ship’s mast. At that time, it was possible to sail all the way to Haraldskær via Vejle River. The old clock in the main building, which after significant effort, now keeps reasonably accurate time, dates back to 1763. And of course, Haraldskær also has its own ghost. According to legend, the ghost of a young woman haunts the place due to unrequited love. She is said to walk from Skibet Church, through the old fireplace room, and down to Vejle River.
Next to Haraldskær are the ruins of the old manor mill, Kvak Mølle, and Skibet Church. The church was built between 1125 and 1150 and belonged to Haraldskær until around 1936. The church, built of travertine, contains some very beautiful frescoes from the 13th century.
Nature in the area
In the area, there are several scenic routes for the active hiker or cyclist. You can also experience a wealth of attractions and natural areas for both children and adults. Read about the experiences in the Vejle and Egtved river valleys.
