Welcome to Bornholm, a Danish island paradise nestled in the heart of the Baltic Sea.
If you’re a travel enthusiast looking for a unique blend of stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and a vibrant arts scene, then Bornholm is your next must-visit destination.
This article will guide you through the best that Bornholm has to offer, from its dramatic coastlines and ancient forests to its charming fishing villages and culinary delights.
Discovering the Scandinavia in a nutshell – Bornholm
Bornholm is an island of contrasts.
Here, you’ll find the rugged cliffs of the northern coast, the fine white sands of the south, and the lush Almindingen forest in between.
This diversity has earned Bornholm the nickname “Scandinavia in a nutshell,” offering a taste of the entire region’s beauty in one compact destination.
Hammershus: A Glimpse into the Past
No visit to Bornholm is complete without exploring the magnificent Hammershus Castle Ruins.
Perched atop a rocky cliff, this medieval fortress is the largest of its kind in Northern Europe.
As you wander through the ruins, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding coastline.
It’s a truly unforgettable experience that transports you back in time.
Dueodde Beach: A Sandy Paradise
At the southern tip of Bornholm lies Dueodde Beach, a stretch of coastline renowned for its incredibly fine, white sand.
The sand is so fine, in fact, that it was once used in hourglasses.
After a day of sunbathing and swimming, be sure to climb to the top of Dueodde Lighthouse, the tallest in Denmark, for stunning views of the island and the sea.
The Enchanting Almindingen Forest
Escape into the heart of Bornholm at Almindingen, one of Denmark’s largest forests.
Here, you can hike or bike through lush greenery, discover tranquil lakes, and even spot a herd of European bison.
The forest is also home to Rytterkngten, the highest point on the island, where a granite tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Embracing the Great Outdoors
Bornholm is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
🌊 Dramatic Coastal Contrasts
Bornholm stands out from the rest of Denmark with its unique geological diversity, featuring rugged granite cliffs and rocky coves in the north, such as the Sanctuary Cliffs.
In stark contrast, the southern tip boasts Dueodde Beach, famous for its miles of ultra-fine white sand and dunes that rival the Mediterranean.
🌲 Ancient Forests and Bison
In the island’s center lies Almindingen, one of Denmark’s largest forests, known for its deep rift valleys like Ekkodalen (Echo Valley).
This lush interior offers a wilder experience where visitors can mountain bike through dense woods and even spot a roaming herd of European bison reintroduced to the wild.
🚴♂️ A Paradise for Active Exploration
With over 235 kilometers of cycling trails, numerous hiking paths, and opportunities for rock climbing and kayaking, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the island’s natural beauty.
The cycling network is built around coastal, forest, and former railway routes.
- Coastal Path (Kyststien – Route 10): The primary and most famous route that circles the entire island, offering diverse scenery from cliffs to sandy beaches.
- Former Railway Tracks (The Green Paths): These routes cut across the island’s interior along old rail lines, providing flat, smooth, and car-free cycling through forests and fields.
- Hilly Forest Routes: Found around the center (Almindingen Forest) and northern cliffs, offering more challenging elevation and mountain biking opportunities.
📊 Comparison Table of Popular Bornholm Cycling Routes
| Route Feature | Coastal Path (Route 10) | Svaneke to Dueodde (Section of Route 10) | Central Railway Paths (Green Paths) | Almindingen Forest Loop |
| Scenery | Highly diverse; Cliffs, fishing villages, beaches | Beautiful coastline, wind-swept fields, famous beaches | Deep forest, tranquil farmland, and quiet interiors | Dense forest, rift valleys (Ekkodalen), and bison reserve |
| Terrain | Mixed; flat in the South, hilly and rocky in the North | Mostly flat to gently rolling | Mostly flat and straight (built on old rail lines) | Hilly, with potential for off-road/mountain biking |
| Difficulty | Medium to Challenging | Easy to Medium | Easy | Medium to Challenging |
| Surface Type | Asphalt, paved bike paths, and some gravel/dirt sections | Dedicated asphalt bike paths | Mostly paved or well-packed gravel | Gravel, dirt, and forest tracks |
| Highlights | Hammershus Castle, Dueodde Beach, charming towns | Svaneke (most beautiful village), lighthouse, fine sand | Peaceful inland cycling, far from car traffic | Spotting European Bison, Ekkodalen (Echo Valley) |
Charming Towns and Culinary Delights
Bornholm’s charming towns and villages are a delight to explore.
From the main town of Rnne with its cobblestone streets to the picturesque fishing village of Gudhjem, each town has its own unique character and charm.
A Taste of Bornholm: Smoked Herring
A trip to Bornholm wouldn’t be complete without sampling the local delicacy: smoked herring.
Visit a traditional smokehouse, or “rogeri,” in towns like Hasle or Gudhjem to see the herring being smoked over alder wood.
Enjoy this savory treat with a slice of rye bread and a raw egg yolk, a dish known as “Sol over Gudhjem” (Sun over Gudhjem).
Planning Your Bornholm Adventure
Ready to pack your bags?
Here’s some essential information to help you plan your trip to the sunshine island.
Best Times to Visit
The best time to visit Bornholm is during the summer months, from June to August.
During this period, the island enjoys long, sunny days and pleasant temperatures, perfect for swimming, hiking, and exploring.
The shoulder seasons of spring (May) and autumn (September) are also excellent times to visit, with fewer crowds and a beautiful display of nature’s changing colors.
Why is Bornholm so Sunny?
Bornholm’s nickname, “the sunshine island,” is no exaggeration.
Due to its unique location in the Baltic Sea, the island enjoys significantly more sunshine than the rest of Denmark.
This favorable microclimate not only makes it a popular holiday destination but also allows for the growth of figs and mulberries, a rare sight in Scandinavia.
Getting to Bornholm from Copenhagen
Bornholm is easily accessible from the Danish capital, Copenhagen.
The fastest way to get there is by a short 35-minute flight from Copenhagen Airport.
Alternatively, you can take a scenic train and ferry ride via Ystad, Sweden, which takes approximately three hours.
For those who prefer a more leisurely journey, there’s also a bus and ferry option, as well as an overnight ferry from Koge, just south of Copenhagen.
Where to Stay on Bornholm
Bornholm offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.
From cozy seaside hotels to charming guesthouses and countryside campsites, you’re sure to find the perfect place to rest your head.
Here are a few recommendations:
Bornholm Hotels
A group of hotels offering a variety of experiences, from luxury spa resorts to family-friendly accommodations. You can contact them at +45 56 90 44 44 or book@bornholmhotels.dk.
Hotel Allinge
A charming hotel in the town of Hasle, known for its beautiful sea views. Contact them at +45 51 72 72 26 or booking@hotelkysten.dk.
Hotel Kysten
Located in the picturesque town of Allinge, this hotel offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. You can reach them at +45 5648-0025 or info@hotelallinge.dk.
Bornholm Official Information
For more information about Bornholm, be sure to visit the official tourism website, VisitBornholm.com.
Here, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your perfect Bornholm getaway.
Experience Bornholm in Your Home
Bornholm is a Danish treasure that offers something for every traveler.
Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors, a journey through history, or simply a relaxing getaway, this sunshine island in the Baltic Sea is sure to captivate you with its beauty and charm.
Download Bornholm Digital Arts
Bring the beauty of Bornholm into your home with our exclusive collection of digital art prints.
Each print captures the unique landscapes and landmarks of the island, allowing you to relive your Bornholm memories every day.
Click here to explore our collection and find the perfect piece of Bornholm to adorn your walls.