Hotel Frederiksminde – From monastic grounds to a gastronomic destination
Hotel Frederiksminde is situated on historic grounds by Præstø Fjord. The area was originally part of an Antonite monastery – the only one of its kind in Denmark – which was built around 1470 and stood on the site of the present-day cemetery, right next to the hotel. The monastery’s lands also included the so-called Klosterhave, where the hotel stands today.
Following the Reformation, the area passed into secular ownership and has served many purposes over the centuries. In the 17th century, the land was used as security in connection with King Frederik III’s financing of the wars against Sweden. Later, the area became known as Klostervang and served, amongst other things, as cabbage fields and a training ground for the dragoon regiments stationed in Præstø in the 18th century.
When the soldiers left the town, work began on developing the area as a recreational park. With trees and plants from the royal nurseries, Klosterhaven was transformed into a green meeting place for the town’s residents.
In 1870, Frederiksminde was built as the town’s pavilion and assembly hall on the initiative of Præstø’s citizens. The name was chosen in honour of King Frederik VII, whose bust still stands in the park. The building quickly became a cultural hub, hosting balls, concerts, theatre performances, lectures, meetings and town festivals.
In the early 1900s, the building was extended and took on much the same appearance it has today. For decades, Frederiksminde was the town’s leading hotel and the setting for countless events and the defining moments of generations.
In 2003, the property was purchased by shipowner Hans Michael Jebsen, who carried out an extensive restoration with great respect for the building’s history and architecture.
Today, Hotel Frederiksminde is managed by Silje Brenna. Under her leadership, the hotel has developed into one of Denmark’s leading gastronomic destinations, where history, nature and modern luxury go hand in hand.
Restaurant Frederiksminde has been awarded one Michelin star and, in 2026, was among the first restaurants in the Nordic region to be selected for the Michelin Guide – Mindful Voices. Since 1 January 2026, Head Chef Mulla Yalcin has been at the helm of the kitchen, further developing the gastronomic direction with a focus on local produce, the rhythm of the seasons and responsible craftsmanship.
The hotel currently has 19 rooms and offers guests a holistic experience, where the views over Præstø Fjord, the historic atmosphere and world-class gastronomy provide the setting for a stay characterised by presence, quality and tranquillity.
For guests wishing to experience the area’s cultural history and natural surroundings at close quarters, the hotel is happy to organise guided walks with a local guide.