Denmark

The Jutland peninsula and 400 surrounding islands that form one of Europe’s smallest countries once spawned a seafaring race of people feared throughout northwestern Europe. Today, visitors to Denmark find a country that is peaceful, introspective, neutral and egalitarian. This is the epitome of a modern, civilised society, one especially noted for its progressive policies, widespread tolerance and a liberal social welfare system.

Inland from the 4800km (3000 miles) of white-sand beaches and unspoiled islands, you’ll find a landscape eminently suitable for cycling. Sleepy villages clustered around whitewashed churches occupy a landscape of heather moors, rolling hills and rich farmland dotted with windmills and thatched farmhouses. Ferries ply between the mainland and the islands, competing with awesome bridges like the 16km (10 miles) Øresund link to Sweden.

The nation that produced the great story-teller, Hans Christian Andersen, continues to have as its hallmarks good taste, world-class design and uniformly high standards that apply equally to its cuisine, accommodation and transport. Add to this a people both amiable and helpful, with a facility for languages, and the result is an overwhelming sense of welcome.

From the spirited nightlife and lively cafe and music scene of its capital, Copenhagen, home to world-renowned museums and cultural activities (not least the splendour of the Tivoli Gardens), to a countryside that abounds in Renaissance churches, medieval castles and 18th-century fishing villages, Denmark is a synergy of harmonious relationships.