Modern Romance

In Copenhagen, you’re never far from the water. Each summer, the harbours and shorelines woven through the city are filled with locals in search of respite. Discover the summer ritual with Tekla’s guide to swimming in Copenhagen.

Kastrup Sea Bath
An architectural swimming dock built off the shore of Amagerstrand in Kastrup. Ideal for swimming with views of the bridge to Sweden.

LA Banchina / Cafe
A harbour spot with a cafe, restaurant and bar. Arrive early and bring a towel for a day spent sipping wine by the water. Book in advance to use the sauna for an easy spa day.

Sandkaj Harbour Bath
A swimming dock located in Nordhavn – a newly developed neighbourhood of architectural interest – with many cafes and restaurants nearby. A perfect location for a morning swim.

Charlottenlund Fort Beach
North of the city, with calm waters and grassy lawns for lounging. The historical fort adds atmosphere.

Kalvebod Bølge
Swimming in the heart of the city, with views along the main canal. Cross the bridge to Islands Brygge to follow the sun.

Dragør Søbad
South of the city, by the charming 18th-century town of Dragør. An elegant wooden structure that extends into sparkling water.

Svanemøllen Beach
At the outer edge of the city, a sandy shoreline with a 130-meter-long pier to rest on.

Christiania Beach
A lush oasis in the middle of Christiania, Copenhagen’s famous Freetown. Cross through the grassy approach to uncover the private harbour and shoreline.

The score for the exhibition, composed and recorded by Astrid Sonne, is written in four parts: Vocal 1, Vocal 2, Guitar and Piano. Vocal 1 and Vocal 2 are imaged by Sonne as states of being awake, while Guitar and Piano are warped with a dreamlike quality. These elements are then combined across the score, connecting the two worlds of wake and sleep.

The exhibition is created in collaboration with Copenhagen studio Mentze Ottenstein.