Denmark boasts a rich archipelago, with over 400 islands, but Bornholm holds a cherished spot in the hearts of many Danes. Positioned closer to Sweden in the Baltic Sea, Bornholm is affectionately known as the “Sunshine Island” due to its higher levels of sunshine compared to the rest of Denmark. The island experiences an early spring and a late summer, with its granite landscape retaining heat, making it an ideal spot for various outdoor activities.
Almost one and a half times larger than the Isle of Wight, Bornholm is encircled by crystal-clear waters and pristine sandy beaches. It is peppered with quaint fishing villages and vibrant creative communities, attracted by the island’s radiant light. Serene, tree-lined rural roads wind through fields to traditional smokehouses with their distinctive white chimneys, hinting at Bornholm’s historical significance as a center for herring fishing.
Bornholm is legendary in Danish culture for many reasons. Here are five excellent ways to fully experience this beloved island.
1. Explore Bornholm on Bicycle
Bornholm boasts over 140 miles of well-marked biking trails tailor-made for cycling enthusiasts. Visitors can bring their own bicycles or rent one on the island, where options range from kid-friendly trailers to power-assisted electric bikes. These official paths weave through villages, beaches, heaths, forests, and farms. They also stop at notable attractions such as local vineyards, smokehouses, and unique round whitewashed medieval churches, making a bike tour on Bornholm a rich cultural and gastronomic journey. The comprehensive 64-mile Route 10 encircles the island, offering a scenic ride along gravel, coastal, and forest tracks with constant views of the Baltic Sea. While seasoned cyclists might complete this route in four to five hours, taking your time to savor the scenic journey is highly recommended.
2. Venture onto the Open Waters
The island’s rugged cliffs and the ruins of ancient castles offer a glimpse into its past filled with medieval pirates and Viking raiders. Nowadays, Bornholm’s coastal life is tranquil, with sea kayaking and paddleboarding being popular methods to explore its hidden beaches, caves, and secluded coves. Adventurers might challenge themselves by circumnavigating the island by kayak, with rental options and guides readily available. For those who prefer underwater exploration, northern Europe’s largest shipwreck, Fu Shan Hai, is located just off the coast, with both diving and snorkeling trips available.
3. Traverse the Island Trails
For hikers, packing some local smoked herring as a snack and hitting one of Bornholm’s picturesque trails is a must. Whether you’re exploring from one fishing village to another or embarking on the extensive 75-mile coastal path, hiking is a fantastic way to experience the island. Bornholm offers a range of hiking options from short family-friendly walks to longer treks through pastoral landscapes and forested areas. The island’s tranquility, amplified by the limited traffic, allows for an immersive nature experience where wildlife sightings are common.
4. Scale the Cliffs and Rappel Down
With over 400 secured climbing routes, Bornholm is a prime destination for climbing enthusiasts in Denmark. The cliffs at Moseløkken and Ringebakkerne quarries provide numerous bolted routes for climbers, and bouldering spots can be found along the Ørnebjerg coast. For beginners and families, Klatring Bornholm and other local operators offer guided climbs, training, and rappelling opportunities for participants as young as six years old. Climbing coastal routes or rappelling down a 45-meter granite cliff next to Opal Lake offers breathtaking views and exhilarating experiences.
5. Enjoy the Scenic Vistas
Bornholm’s landscape is diverse and picturesque, offering everything from the dramatic Sanctuary Cliffs on the north coast, with their sharp rises and deep caves, to ancient forests and the serene Opal Lake, a relic of past granite quarry activities. The central parts of the island feature grazing bison, while the south boasts sandy beaches so fine that the sand is used in hourglasses. Echo Valley, stretching 10 miles, offers a unique acoustic experience where one can hear their echo resonate through the valley. Perhaps the most striking view is from the ruins of Hammershus Castle at sunset, providing a perfect end to a day of exploration.
Discover Bornholm, where natural beauty, historical richness, and creative flair converge, possibly setting the stage for your next grand adventure.
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Fatima Clarke is a seasoned health reporter who bridges medical science with human stories. She writes with compassion, precision, and a drive to inform.
