The four seasons of Denmark
Denmark's climate is oceanic. Winters are longer, not too cold for a northern European country, but very (very) wet; summers are very mild, with maximum sunshine.
In winter, temperatures hover around 0°C in January and February, and rarely rise above 4°C during the day. Of course, as elsewhere, beyond average temperatures, the weather can vary depending on the meteorological situation. If westerly winds prevail, the thermometer can rise slightly above 0°C, even at night, generating precipitation in the form of rain. If, however, the Russian-Siberian anticyclone comes to an end, temperatures plunge sharply below zero, reaching around -20°C at the worst of times. These icy episodes may last a few days, but not as long as in Sweden or Finland. Another Danish peculiarity is that the days are very short: the sun drags on a little, rising only around 8:30 a.m. and setting... around 3:30 p.m.! It's easy to understand why the Danes love hot beverages, are big coffee drinkers and have a tradition of comforting hygge!
On the Faroe Islands, the climate softens with the passage of the Gulf Stream. This may come as a surprise at these latitudes. On average, it freezes for 30 to 40 days a year and snows for 20 to 30. Only the highlands, which cover 80% of the territory, have an arctic climate. Here, the wind blows strongly and humidity levels are close to 90%! Good to know: it rains on this archipelago 300 days a year..
Spring brings a return to life after a long winter. The landscape undergoes a metamorphosis, even if temperatures remain cool, barely rising above 11°C in April or 16°C in May. This is a wonderful opportunity to discover the cherry blossoms, an overwhelming Danish hanami, in places like Bispebjerg Cemetery in Copenhagen or Fredens Torv in Aarhus. The joy of June is amplified when the air becomes milder and the sky takes on beautiful bluish hues. As for the sun, it invites itself in for longer, staying above the horizon after midnight. The darkness lasts no longer than 3 or 4 hours, just enough time to lower the eyelids and rest from the dazzling return of the light! The White Nights in Copenhagen run from around June 4 to July 9. During these months, you can forget about your rain gear, as rainfall is the lowest of the year. And you're back to the pleasure of riding your bike in total freedom..
What about summer? This season is eagerly awaited by all. In August, temperatures are fairly mild, 22°C in Copenhagen and the main cities (Aarhus, Aalborg, Odense, etc.), but can cool off to around 13°C as soon as night falls, particularly along the coast. It's a bit like the French Breton climate! After easing off in spring, the rains return in July and August. Beware, however, of warm air currents from the south, which can bring a few days of scorching heat, usually no more than two or three. Temperatures rarely reach 30°C, although record highs of around 33/34°C are becoming increasingly common. Warm air but cold water. Denmark is not the destination for fearless sea bathing! Water temperatures drop from 3°C in January to an uncomfortable 18°C in August. For those who find it a little chilly, you can enjoy superb walks along the sandy beaches of Søndervig (West Jutland) or Hestehoved on the island of Lolland, or on the giant dunes of Råbjerg Mile near Skagen, in northern Jutland.
As autumn sets in, the skies turn greyer and the sun becomes rarer. Temperatures rise to 12°C during the day, then drop to 6°C at night. In the first days of September, the temperature is still acceptable, and the forests and parks are decked out in the beautiful shimmering colors of autumn. Even if a shower drenches your nature trail, the sun is never far away. It comes back to brighten up your excursion - that's what oceanic climates are all about... In autumn, the countdown to warmer days has begun. Chimney fires crackle in the hearths of homes, tales and legends are told, and Halloween makes its mark. One festival follows another before we plunge back into the night..
On the other hand, the key word for the Faroese climate, in spring as in summer, is cool! In fact, temperatures rise very slowly: in May, the maximum is 9°C, in July 14°C, sometimes peaking at 18°C. You should also be aware that snowfalls can occur at high altitudes, even in summer. Fortunately, the skies are clear and the air full of oxygen. And it's said that from the summit of Slættaratindur (880 metres above sea level), you can see the Icelandic glacier Vatnajökull!
What to put in your suitcase?
An answer like "a little of everything" will frustrate the most organized! However, it's best to plan for both chic and comfortable. In Denmark, mothers are wont to repeat to their children: " Der findes ikke dårligt vejr, kun dårlig påklædning." Translate as: "There is no such thing as bad weather, there are only bad outfits!" And it's true!
In winter, bring warm, waterproof clothing (fleece, down, rain hat, cap, gloves, scarf, long johns...) and good, comfortable shoes or rubber boots. Choose insulating clothing made from natural fibers (cotton or wool), mixed with synthetics to absorb body moisture. Do the onion thing by layering layers, which will make you more comfortable and help you shed the excess once inside a museum or hyper-heated department store. Avoid heels and trendy sneakers: pavement is often cobbled, can be slippery and your feet will quickly get sore as well as wet. Don't forget a raincoat, breathable windbreaker or rain cape suitable for urban hiking or cycling. An umbrella can be useful, except in gusty conditions! Finally, pamper your skin with lip balm and moisturizing creams to add a touch of hygge softness.
In summer, discover yourself! Floral dresses, Bermuda shorts, sandals or flip-flops, caps and sunglasses are all welcome. But always pack mid-season clothes. You need to be able to cover up or uncover, depending on the season. T-shirts, yes, but also long pants, a light jacket and a sweater!
But all year round, the Danish wardrobe essentials remain: umbrella or raincoat in addition to your bikini, because for a spa or sauna, it's better. Last but not least, a dressy outfit is always in order for an evening at the opera or a dinner in a good gastro!
Finally, a very smart tip: always pack a change of clothes and a towel in your car, so that you can continue your day's excursion without spoiling your enjoyment of a stay in Denmark or the Faroes. Being well-equipped means staying well!
