Few structures underscore a city’s importance as the bridge that runs through it, particularly when it links two countries as with Europe’s longest road/rail bridge Denmark-Sweden.
Living in and around Edinburgh over two spells for nigh on 15 years I am treated to the spectacle that are the Forth Road and Rail Bridges.
And its cycle path, where you can breathe in the Firth of Forth Air and admire the Rail Bridge.
As captivating an experience as the Forth Bridges are they are bested in scale by the Øresund Bridge.
The 8km/4km bridge/tunnel connecting the Swedish coastline and Copenhagen.
All of which you might recognise from the Scandi Noir series The Bridge.
Scandi connections
Of course, Denmark and its Scandinavian neighbours are connected.
By more than its impressive Millennial bridge.
With Denmark, Sweden and Norway all bonded together at points in history through royalty.
And today through its cultural links and rail network, all brought together by the likes of Great Rail Journeys.
GRJ, a great favourite of the dearly departed father-in-law old Casey Jones himself, also offers as part of its package cruises.
Around the stunning Stockholm archipelago and Copenhagen’s Nyhavn Canal.
Bridge of highs
Twas from Wonderful Copenhagen that we caught our first glimpse of The Bridge.
On a cruise ourself with MSC when we stopped off in the Danish capital en route to the Norwegian fjords.
And, still it hovers over us a reminder that we need to visit Sverige.
And for no other reason than because my travelling pal Agnetha (no, not that one) has been pestering me ever since we first met in Prague.
But that’s where GRJ come in as they tempt us with their pitch.
‘Take in Oslo’s stylish modernity as well as its long and varied history.
On a guided tour, before travelling by rail to Stockholm.
‘In the Swedish capital, visit picturesque Gamla Stan, one of the best-preserved medieval centres in Europe.
Before embarking on a cruise round the islands.
‘Cross the iconic Øresund Bridge into charming Copenhagen to view royal palaces.
And sail along the Danish capital’s colourful Nyhavn Canal.’
A rail good deal
Included in your package which comes in at from £1,795pp is…
The expertise of a tour manager, standard class rail travel and all rail and coach travel throughout your tour.
Seven nights’ 4-star hotel accommodation, two nights in a 4-Star hotel in Oslo, 3 nights in a 4-Star hotel in Stockholm and 2 nights in a 4-Star hotel in Copenhagen.
Breakfast each day and three dinners and excursions included.
And they will fly you out from London Heathrow to Oslo.
And back from Copenhagen to London Heathrow.
While if you live further north, and yes one sticking point is that they don’t factor in Scotland in that equation.
Then you can depart from Manchester.
All worth thinking about and how three countries once united under the one blue-blooded family have found commonality, unlike this wee island.
Through Europe’s longest road/rail bridge Denmark-Sweden.