The Most Beautiful Routes Along the Coast and Through the Forests
Discover the most spectacular coastal and inland hiking routes on Bornholm – ideal for demanding day hikes.
Learn why the northern coast around Hammerknuden and Hammersø is an essential highlight for hikers.
The best time for hiking on Bornholm is late spring and autumn, when you can enjoy mild weather and a quieter atmosphere.
Combine outdoor activity with excellent culinary experiences – the perfect recipe for relaxation.
Bornholm, often referred to as the “Sunshine Island of the Baltic Sea,” offers a unique combination of rugged cliffs, deep forests and picturesque fishing villages. Especially for adults over the age of 35 who are looking for peace, nature and cultural experiences, hiking on Bornholm becomes a central and memorable activity. The island features an excellent network of marked trails ranging from easy walks to demanding day hikes along the coastal path.
Northern Bornholm, shaped by dramatic granite cliffs and fascinating geological formations, is the perfect starting point for hikers seeking both sweeping sea views and the quiet, almost mystical atmosphere of the island’s beech forests.
The King Stage: Hiking at Hammerknuden in North Bornholm
The area around Hammeren, the northernmost tip of Bornholm, is one of the island’s most impressive landscapes and therefore ideal for hiking. Here steep rocky cliffs, the ruins of Hammershus Castle, and the idyllic Lake Hammersø meet in a remarkable natural setting.
Hammershus Circular Route (Hammerknuden)
The circular route around Hammerknuden is often considered the highlight of Bornholm’s hiking trails. Over a distance of around 7–8 kilometers, this moderately challenging trail offers breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea and passes directly by Hammershus – the largest castle ruin in Northern Europe.
Terrain
Rocky paths with moderate ascents and descents.
Highlights
The Hammershus castle ruins
Opalsøen (a former granite quarry)
The rock formation known as “Kamelhovederne”
Location advantage
From an adults-only hotel on Bornholm such as Hotel Hammersø, located directly by Lake Hammersø, the starting point of this hike can be reached on foot within just a few minutes.
Lake Hammersø – A Place of Peace in the Heart of the Hiking Landscape
Lake Hammersø, Denmark’s third-largest lake, lies beautifully nestled between cliffs and forests and is a place of complete tranquility. A walk along its shores offers a pleasant contrast to the rugged coastline. Here you can quietly observe Bornholm’s unique geology far away from the busier coastal areas.
The view over the lake from the restaurant at Hotel Hammersø after a day of hiking is the perfect reward for nature-loving guests.
Hiking in Bornholm’s Interior
If you want to experience the full diversity of Bornholm’s nature, you should explore the hiking trails in the island’s interior. These areas offer dense forests, wetlands and fascinating geological formations that differ significantly from the coastal landscapes.
Almindingen: European Bison and Ekkodalen
Almindingen, one of Denmark’s largest forests, offers excellent hiking conditions with mostly easy trails.
A special highlight is the Bison Trail, where hikers may encounter the European bison that live in the area.
Another natural attraction is Ekkodalen (Echo Valley), one of Denmark’s deepest rift valleys, where your voice echoes dramatically back from the rock walls.
Paradisbakkerne: The Rocking Stone and Ancient Forests
In the eastern part of the island lies Paradisbakkerne (Paradise Hills), a rugged and hilly landscape of rocky terrain, forests and wetlands.
The most famous attraction here is Rokkestenen, a massive glacial boulder that can actually be moved by pushing it.
The trails here are often more challenging and provide a true nature experience away from the island’s most popular paths.
Planning Your Trip: The Best Time for Hiking
Season | Months | Hiking Conditions | Nature Highlights | Recommendation |
Late spring | April – May | Mild weather, little rain | Blooming wild garlic and wood anemones | Perfect for peaceful nature hikes |
Late summer / autumn | September – October | Stable, mild and sunny | Beautiful autumn colors in the forests | Ideal for relaxing hiking trips |
Summer | June – August | Warm weather, long days | Swimming season and lively coastal towns | Great for combining hiking with beach activities |
Conclusion:
September offers the ideal combination of warm temperatures and tranquility, making it particularly attractive for couples and independent travelers.
Relaxation After Hiking – More Than Just Accommodation
After a day on the demanding trails of North Bornholm, a peaceful retreat is essential.
Hotel Hammersø, an adults-only hotel, offers exactly this atmosphere. Its location directly by Lake Hammersø provides a calm and relaxing environment surrounded by nature.
For adults over 35 who appreciate peace and aesthetics, the hotel offers the perfect balance between activity and relaxation.
Location
The hotel is situated directly by the scenic Lake Hammersø in North Bornholm, far from crowded tourist areas.
Atmosphere
The interior features designer furniture, antiques and art, creating a refined and tranquil setting.
Relaxation
Large outdoor swimming pool
Restaurant with lake views
Breakfast buffet and excellent evening menus
Accommodation
In addition to stylish hotel rooms, the hotel also offers holiday homes:
“Hammerblik” holiday house by Lake Hammer in Sandvig
A holiday house near Dueodde Beach
“Strandhütten” beach cottages at Boderne Beach
Hotel Hammersø is an adults-only hotel, guaranteeing a peaceful atmosphere focused on relaxation, gastronomy and culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most beautiful hiking route on Bornholm?
The circular route around Hammerknuden is considered one of the most scenic hikes, offering spectacular cliff views, Hammershus Castle and Lake Hammersø.
What difficulty levels do the hiking trails have?
Trails range from easy coastal walks to moderately challenging routes such as Hammerknuden and Paradisbakkerne. The difficulty mainly comes from rocky terrain and hills rather than altitude.
When is the best time to hike on Bornholm?
The best months are May and September, when temperatures are mild and the island is less crowded.
Where can you hike inland on Bornholm?
Excellent inland hiking areas include Almindingen (with Ekkodalen and the Bison Trail) and Paradisbakkerne in the eastern part of the island.
Are guided hiking tours available on Bornholm?
Yes. Local tourism companies and associations offer guided tours on topics such as geology, birdwatching and mushroom foraging. Some travel companies also offer complete hiking packages along the coastal trail.