Denmark forms the bridge between Germany and Sweden in Europe, dividing the North and Baltic Seas, and is famous for its happiness: it can be found in the top five of just about every international quality-of-life index.

Along with this, the country is synonymous with some of the world’s most progressive ideas regarding politics, sustainability, and egalitarianism.

And yet, the Danes have managed to retain a sense of their old-world charm: wonderfully preserved old town centres remain strewn with half-timbered houses and medieval castles, side by side with some of the world’s most forward-thinking design.

Even Copenhagen, the country’s ‘uber cool’ cosmopolitan capital, fosters the kind of friendly know-your-neighbour atmosphere one would typically associate with a small village rather than a metropolis.

The surrounds are equally charming, with gorgeous rolling hills scattered with traditional farmhouses and churches.