The village by the sea… by Victoria Cecilia

Skagen is an extremely picturesque village distinguished by its pretty yellow houses with red tile roofs. Go for an evening stroll through Osterby, and you will see locals entertaining guests by the bbq, usually in the front yard, which will be equipped with wooden furniture and a flagpole. Often homeowners will decorate their houses with finds from the beach. It is very common to see stones with holes through them, hanging on old fishing robe. Skagen is where the two northern seas meet, and tourists travel there from all over the world, to place a foot in each sea. Skagen is known for being the place where bohemian artists, known as the Skagen Painters, would spend their summers in the 1880′s.  The painters were attracted to the area because of the special summer light that would rest above the town and the impressive wild landscape. The artists were often gathered at Brondums Hotel, which is still in operation today and this is my favorite place to rest. What is more appealing than having a drink in the garden under the beautiful trees, where all the old painters used to hang out.  It’s incredibly beautiful, and everything you order is served on Royal Copenhagen dishes. At the other end of the village is Old Skagen. This area is known for the large gathering of people who watch the sunset every night. It is completely quiet as people take in the view of a red sun sinking into the water. As soon as the sun is gone, the crowd erupts into a long applause. Where ever you go you see unique architecture and artwork. When you visit the boutiques, you are constantly reminded of the nature that surrounds the area. It is not uncommon for a store to place their merchandise on large branches instead of regular shelves, and at the tea -house, they serve blends of tea picked in the local area. Skagen is best in the summer,and the highlight is the celebration of Midsummer Eve on the beach with bonfires, songs and graduates dancing around the fire, all dressed in white.

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