Bella Grande: A Copenhagen Guide to Joy in Simplicity

Hotel Bella Grande in Copenhagen is a testament to contemporary hospitality, merging the elegance of traditional Scandinavian design with modern technological advancements. Opened in 2024, the hotel has quickly become a focal point for tourists and locals seeking a unique lodging experience in Denmark’s capital. The vibrant atrium, adorned with a striking red-and-white checkerboard tile floor, welcomes guests into a space that oozes history and contemporary elegance. Each detail, meticulously curated by local design studio Tonen, enchants the space with colourful furnishings and a playful sophistication, inviting one to linger and absorb Bella Grande’s powerful ambiance. As sunlight filters through elegantly draped windows, it casts gentle shadows on plush textiles, creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and refreshingly new.

 

The hotel emphasises sustainability—a crucial factor for today’s environmentally conscious traveller. It adopts eco-friendly practices throughout its operations, from energy-efficient systems to sustainable dining options that feature locally sourced ingredients. Such initiatives not only minimise environmental impact but also resonate with guests who prioritise responsible tourism. The hotel also provides bikes to its guests, enhancing the guest experience by allowing visitors to explore Copenhagen’s rich cultural landscape at their own pace. By encouraging cycling, hotels can help reduce carbon emissions associated with short-distance travel within city environments. From its sustainable efforts to its thoughtful design elements, the space’s refined craftsmanship provides every conceivable comfort for weary travellers.

 

I stayed in the Junior Suite, a warm and light-filled room with a personal bar and a warm welcome of Nocellara olives and potato chips on arrival. I was also spoiled with the option of buffet breakfast or breakfast in bed, so getting up every day really never felt so easy. A generous spread of granolas, cheeses, fresh fruit, and pastries with an accompaniment of bubbles, fresh juice, or coffee was on offer every morning. The room interiors are characterised by muted colours and sophisticated details, creating a calming atmosphere for guests. This striking aesthetic aims to provide an experience that distinguishes it from typical accommodations found in the city.

 

Copenhagen is a city that pulses with an ineffable charm and an ethos steeped in community. Here, streets wind their way through a tapestry of colour, where children dressed in flyverdragter (little puffy jumpsuits) walk to the rhythm of pedals against pavements. The essence of Copenhagen style, characterised by an audacious blend of functionality and individual expression, reflects not only the city’s unpredictable weather but also its inhabitants’ desire to communicate their identities through their clothing choices. The selection of clothing stores, particularly vintage, is immaculate, with an incredible range of hidden treasures and very fairly priced gems. Copenhagen’s cultural landscape extends into realms artistic and intellectual, where engagement in creative pursuits has been shown to enhance well-being. It is evident here that art breathes life into everyday experiences, from street musicians serenading crowds in bustling squares to galleries like the Copenhagen Contemporary showcasing avant-garde works and minimalist design principles. This harmonious blend cultivates an atmosphere ripe for reflection and rejuvenation—a testament to how Copenhagen embodies not merely a location but a way of being.

 

A top travel tip of mine is to befriend a local. I was lucky enough to get all my travel tips and recommendations from the lovely Lou, who even went as far as to offer his services as a travel guide to his hometown. We had dinner at Mangia, a traditional restaurant with an Italian menu and an extensive wine list, and after-dinner drinks at Mesteren og Lærlingen, one of the meatpacking district’s cosy hang spots. I also enjoyed a bun and cheese – a typical breakfast option – from Lille, a bakery located in Refshaleoen that is well known for its delicious menu and use of seasonal produce, and a lager shandy from Gaarden og Gaden, a bustling bistro with outdoor seating, natural wines, and local beers on draft. Whilst I was visiting, it was Fastelavn, a vibrant pre-Lenten celebration in Denmark that holds a significant place in Copenhagen’s cultural calendar. Originating from a blend of pagan fertility rites and Christian traditions, Fastelavn has evolved into an event characterised by its communal spirit and festive activities. Lou took me to Meyers Bageri, a local bakery, to get a fastelavnsboller, a traditional sweet bun often filled with cream or jam, eaten widely around the celebrations.

 

Copenhagen boasts an extensive network of waterways that not only serve as transportation routes but also foster a thriving boating culture. The integration of leisure boating with residential life reflects broader trends toward eco-friendly practices within urban environments. As cities worldwide look to improve liveability amidst growing populations, Copenhagen serves as a model for balancing modernity with nature through its unique waterfront lifestyle.

During my visit, I discovered the ethereal essence of hygge (pronounced hoo-gah). Lou had told me several times that this Danish term transcends mere translation; it encapsulates an atmosphere of warmth and contentment that envelops you like a soft blanket on a winter night. As I walked the streets, I felt an inexplicable pull toward the intimate moments that characterise this city. It is here, where time seems to suspend, that one discovers the true essence of hygge: it’s not just an aesthetic but a way of life that embraces joy in simplicity. Whether nestled in the gentle confines of a Bella Grande duvet or basking in the sun whilst enjoying a shandy with a friend, Copenhagen invites all who wander to find hygge and partake in its warm-hearted embrace.

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Book your stay at Hotel Bella Grande and check out their Instagram to inspire your travels.