Guided Rides and Rules for Experiencing Nature
Discover Bornholm from the back of sturdy Icelandic horses – ideal for both beginners and experienced riders.
Find out where guided horseback rides are offered on Bornholm, from Almindingen to the northern coast.
Learn about the specific rules for riding on the island’s beaches and in its forests.
Horse riding offers a calm and immersive perspective on Bornholm’s unique landscape – from forests to dramatic coastlines.
The Danish island of Bornholm, often called the Sunshine Island, offers an exceptional setting for horse riding with its varied landscape of deep forests, rocky coastlines and wide sandy beaches. Horse riding on Bornholm is a nature-focused activity that perfectly supports a slower pace of holiday and is ideal for adults who appreciate nature, quality experiences and discovering the island in a unique way.
Bornholm places great importance on protecting its natural environment, which is why horse riding is subject to clear but fair regulations. Those who seek the quiet of the forests or sweeping views of the Baltic Sea will find selected riding trails and experienced providers offering guided horseback tours.
Riding Trails and Stables: The Best Places to Ride on Bornholm
The best riding opportunities on Bornholm are found in regions that offer varied natural scenery. Most riding tours use Icelandic horses, known for their calm temperament and sure footing – making them ideal even for guests who have not ridden in a long time or who have never been on horseback before.
The Most Popular Riding Areas
Almindingen
Almindingen, one of Denmark’s largest forests, is located in the center of Bornholm and offers designated riding trails. Here you can experience dense forests, small lakes and the famous Echo Valley (Ekkodalen). The tours here are typically quiet and close to nature.
Southwest Coast (Rønne / Nylars)
Several riding stables in this region offer tours through the surrounding countryside, ranging from forest paths to rural field roads. Its proximity to Rønne, the island’s main town and ferry port, makes the area convenient for visitors arriving on Bornholm.
North Bornholm and Surroundings
Although Hotel Hammersø does not offer horse rentals itself, North Bornholm with its dramatic rocky coastline is a breathtaking starting point for nature experiences. Riding stables in the surrounding area offer guided tours that are ideal for guests staying at the adults-only hotel who wish to spend a day in nature.
Local Providers of Horse Riding Tours
Two of the best-known riding stables on Bornholm are:
Stutteri Hesteklewa (near Svaneke)
Known for guided tours in the region around Svaneke and the eastern coast. Tours are usually available for different experience levels.
Stutteri Liselund (near Rønne / Nylars)
Specializes in Icelandic horses and guided riding tours in the surrounding area, often including routes close to Almindingen forest.
Tip for guests at Hotel Hammersø:
We recommend booking riding tours in advance, especially during the high season. The calm and guided rides are a perfect complement to the relaxed atmosphere of our adults-only hotel.
Special Rules: Riding on the Beach and in Nature
To protect Bornholm’s fragile ecosystem, horse riding is regulated by clear rules. These are especially important for visitors who value sustainable tourism.
Beach and Forest Rules (Overview)
Location | Riding Allowed | Main Restriction |
Public beaches | Allowed from September 1 to May 31 | Prohibited from June 1 to August 31 (high season) |
State forests | Only on designated and marked riding trails | Prohibited on forest roads, hiking trails, protected areas and young forest plantations |
Private roads | Only with explicit permission from the owner | Riding generally prohibited on unmarked paths |
The key rule to remember is that horse riding on beaches is not allowed during the summer high season, in order to protect swimmers and beach visitors. Guided tours offered by local stables ensure that all regulations are respected.
Your Adults-Only Retreat: Relaxation After Riding
After an active day on horseback, Hotel Hammersø offers the perfect setting to unwind. The hotel’s adults-only concept complements the calm and slow-paced nature of horse riding on Bornholm.
For adults aged 35+ who value tranquility, aesthetics and comfort, 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 away from busy tourist areas.
Atmosphere
The interior features designer furniture, antiques and art, creating a refined and peaceful atmosphere – ideal for reflecting on the experiences of the day.
Relaxation
Large outdoor swimming pool
Restaurant with lake views
Generous breakfast buffet and excellent evening menus
Accommodation
In addition to stylish hotel rooms, the hotel also offers exclusive holiday homes:
The “Hammerblik” holiday house by Lake Hammer in Sandvig
A holiday house near Dueodde Beach
The “Strandhütten” beach cottages directly at Boderne Beach
Hotel Hammersø is an adults-only hotel, ensuring peace and quiet without children, allowing guests to focus on relaxation, gastronomy and cultural experiences. It is the perfect base for combining horse riding adventures on Bornholm with stylish relaxation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can you ride horses on Bornholm and which stables offer tours?
Guided rides are mainly offered by stables such as Stutteri Liselund and Stutteri Hesteklewa. Tours usually take place in designated riding areas, often in Almindingen forest or along the coast outside the bathing season.
Is horse riding allowed on Bornholm’s beaches?
Yes, but only in the off-season from September 1 to May 31. From June 1 to August 31, riding on public beaches is generally prohibited.
Which horse breeds are used for guided rides?
Most guided tours use Icelandic horses, known for their calm temperament, strong footing and additional gaits such as tölt and pace, making them ideal for tours across varied terrain.
What are the prices and duration of guided riding tours?
Prices vary depending on the provider and duration. Most rides last between 1 and 2 hours and typically cost 250–450 DKK (about €34–60) per person for a 1–1.5 hour tour.
Are there horse riding tours for beginners?
Yes. Most riding stables offer guided tours for all experience levels. Thanks to the calm nature of Icelandic horses, these tours are also well suited for adult beginners and riders returning after a long break.