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1 July, 2024

Copenhagen’s Bryggen Guldsmeden leads the way in sustainable, luxury hospitality

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Many hotels claim to be eco or sustainable but Bryggen Guldsmeden, locally owned by a Danish couple with a fondness for Balinese design, is a delightful hotel in Copenhagen and takes the badge about as seriously as Travel Weekly has yet seen. They also have Chapung SeBali in Ubud, Bali, one we will be sure to check it out soon.

Sole Factory dining.

First Impression

Once the location for a shoe factory, Bryggen Guldsmeden Hotel has an ambience and design that blends luxury with eco-consciousness. You won’t spot plastics anywhere and the hotel’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of its design and operation, setting it apart as a model for eco-friendly hospitality. The interiors are thoughtfully decorated with a mix of modern Nordic design and warm Balinese touches, creating a welcoming and serene atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home. The use of natural materials and vintage pieces not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also underscores the hotel’s dedication to reusing and recycling.

Location

Situated in the vibrant Islands Brygge district, Bryggen Guldsmeden enjoys a prime location just moments away from the bustling harbour front. The neighbourhood is known for its dynamic mix of galleries, shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering plenty to explore within walking distance. The hotel’s proximity to the Islands Brygge metro station makes it easy to access the rest of Copenhagen, which meant we could enjoy the city’s many attractions without hassle. For those who love the outdoors, the nearby harbour baths are a popular spot for swimming and relaxation during the warmer months. We saw many locals taking an icy dip!

Rooms

The rooms at Bryggen Guldsmeden are designed with sustainability at the forefront. Each room features eco-friendly elements such as fairtrade, non-toxic mattresses, pillows, and duvets. The linens and towels are made from GOTS-certified organic cotton mixed with recycled polyester, providing durability without compromising on eco-credentials.

Orbital Showers lead the gold standard in water savings and energy usage

The most fascinating feature was a water-saving Orbital Showers, inspired by research in water conservation technology for space by NASA. The Orbital Showers take in 2,7 litres of water into a closed system, heat it up and send it through the shower grate, where it is analysed 20 times per second and cleaned with blue-light technology, rendering it even cleaner than tap water (which is already very clean in Denmark). If a portion of water is very polluted (for instance by heavily perfumed shampoo or the like), it is replaced by a corresponding amount. So of course the amount of water used in total varies, depending on the activity and products used in the shower – but the general percentage of water savings is 77 per cent, which Orbital has had verified by a third party authority. The water is flushed after each shower, so that each guest only showers in their “own” portion of water. Amazing!

A Bryggen Guldsmeden bathroom.

Service

The service at Bryggen Guldsmeden is exemplary, with staff dedicated to both guest satisfaction and sustainability. Housekeeping practices are thorough and eco-friendly, focusing on meticulous waste sorting and the use of biodegradable cleaning products. Guests are encouraged to participate in sustainability efforts, such as reusing towels and correctly sorting waste, which enhances the overall eco-friendly experience. In the common areas, there are six different bins to split up rubbish – waste, plastics, metal, paper, glass and non-recyclable waste.

Food

Dining at Bryggen Guldsmeden is a highlight, thanks to its on-site restaurant, Sole Factory. The restaurant offers a blend of French and Nordic cuisine, with all ingredients being organic and locally sourced. The hotel’s no-fly policy ensures that the food has a minimal carbon footprint, supporting local farmers and producers. The organic breakfast is particularly noteworthy, providing a delicious and sustainable start to the day.

Dining at Bryggen Guldsmeden.

Sustainable Gold Standard

Travel Weekly Australia is committed to supporting locally owned and sustainable hotels and Bryggen Guldsmeden’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its certifications and daily operations. The hotel’s initiatives in extensive waste sorting, the use of biodegradable and eco-certified cleaning products, and a strong focus on energy and water conservation is more than impressive and a reflection of Copenhagen and Denmark’s commitment to environmental care.

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Bryggen Guldsmeden