Troense – Home of the Apples on South Funen

The tradition of fruit growing in the village of Troense goes back a long way and has made the area famous for its apples, which for centuries have been transported from Tåsinge to the markets – a proud heritage that is still celebrated today!

Troense is a charming and historic village on the island of Tåsinge, idyllically located near Valdemar's Castle and offering fantastic views of the South Funen Archipelago. The village is known for its narrow streets, old thatched half-timbered houses and a long history marked by both agriculture and seafaring, and today the town is a popular destination for day trips. But beneath the picturesque surface lies an exciting and rich cultural history closely linked to fruit growing – especially apples.

Fruit growing in Troense can be traced back to the mid-1700s, when landowner Niels Juel established a nursery at Valdemar's Castle. Niels Juel, who was a prominent figure on Tåsinge, encouraged tenant farmers to grow fruit, and this laid the foundation for the flourishing fruit growing industry that quickly became known outside South Funen.
The apples from Troense in particular gained great recognition for their quality and were transported to Copenhagen and other major cities via small sailing ships called ‘Pæreskuder.’ These ships sailed the apples directly to the markets, where they were sold from the sides of the ships, and the fruit from Troense quickly became a sought-after commodity.

This proud tradition of fruit growing lives on today and is reflected in the many fruit trees in the gardens of Troense, which still stand as symbols of the rich agricultural heritage. The apples and fruit tradition are celebrated every year with the annual event Æbleræs, which is a tribute to Troense's maritime and agricultural history. Here, old wooden ships reminiscent of the historic Pæreskuder sail from Troense Harbour to Svendborg Harbour with apples gathered in the gardens of Troense, where they are sold to visitors directly from the ship's sides. The event is not only a festive and enjoyable celebration of apples, but also of the proud craftsmanship that has shaped South Funen for centuries.

The apple harvest also marks the end of the sailing season for the beautiful old wooden ships. In addition to apple sales at Svendborg Harbour, there is a maritime atmosphere with many activities and a market, just like in the old days. Troense and fruit farming are still a central part of South Funen's identity, and the traditions are upheld through generations.