Planning a conference is about more than just finding a venue and creating an agenda. It's about creating the best possible framework for collaboration, immersion and shared understanding - all in an atmosphere that inspires and provides space for both the professional and the human.
This is exactly where Bernstorff Castle sets itself apart. In this blog post, we've gathered a number of our own tried and tested tips and ideas on how to get the most out of your next conference stay - from building the agenda and choosing facilities to the importance of well-deserved breaks and socializing outside the meeting room.
Read on for concrete tips for a great conference stay.
Set the frame
A well-planned and well-considered agenda is the foundation of a successful conference. The agenda creates direction, ensures efficient use of time and allows for both immersion and flexibility. Yet many agendas end up as long bulleted lists with no structure - and therefore no real value for participants.
At Bernstorff Castle, we recommend organizing the program with both focus and purpose. Do you need to make strategic decisions, strengthen internal collaboration or find new inspiration? When the purpose is clear, it becomes easier to manage your time wisely.
We've previously touched on this in our blog post about avoiding pointless meetings.
Plan with balance
A good program alternates between plenary and group work - and not least between intense concentration and informal dialogue. Consider including walk & talk sessions in Slotsparken, spontaneous coffee breaks or shared reflections.
Breaks often prove to be catalysts for new ideas and stronger relationships.
At Bernstorff Castle, the possibilities are endless - whether it's a stroll in the historic Bernstorff Castle Gardens or full focus in one of our conference rooms.
Full focus or a break in nature - Bernstorff Castle has room for it all
When you step into Bernstorff Castle, you immediately feel the sense of history - and tranquillity. The more than 250-year-old buildings exude aesthetics and character, and this combination of historical elegance and modern functionality creates a very special setting for conferences, courses and meetings.
Classic meets practical in a seamless experience: from the stately interior with stucco ceilings, high windows and park views to the latest AV equipment and technical support that's ready before you even need it.
We've thought of everything in the White Hall, the Cavalier Hall and the smaller but atmospheric group rooms. We use ClickShare technology, which makes sharing presentations easy and wireless so you can focus on what really matters: the content.
And in the unlikely event of a technical problem, a technician is always on hand - at no extra cost and without interrupting the day's program. This peace of mind and professionalism is something our conference guests often emphasize as an essential part of the experience.
Castles offer both spacious conference rooms and smaller group rooms
The meeting experience - catering and anchoring
A successful conference stay is not just about the program and the venue - it's also about how the day is experienced between the meeting points. This is where catering and accommodation play a crucial role.
At Bernstorff Castle, we're all about pampering - without it feeling forced. Our head chef has been in charge of gastronomy since 2009, and it shows. All meals are homemade, based on the best seasonal ingredients and prepared with both finesse and love. From the morning's warm pastries and delicate lunch dishes to the afternoon pastries and evening 3-course menu, the food is not just nourishment, it's an experience in itself.
Catering can be adapted to your program, and our different meeting packages offer flexibility - whether you're planning a short morning session or a full-day event with dinner. We make sure the breaks are small highlights where participants can refuel and digest both impressions and ideas.
There must be room for breaks - spiritual as well as gastronomic
Stay a little longer - and take it all in
If the conference is for more than one day, we offer accommodation in one of the 23 atmospheric rooms in Kavalérgården.
Staying at Bernstorff Slot is not just about accommodation - it's an opportunity to extend the experience, strengthen internal relationships and give participants time for contemplation, reflection and the informal socializing that is often crucial to the overall value of the conference.
Whether you're planning a full-day meeting, an overnight strategy seminar or a fully catered networking day, we're ready to help you design a stay that meets your goals and creates space for human connection.
See our meeting packages here - or contact us directly at booking@bernstorffslot.dk to learn more.
