Viking heritage, coastal walks and, unusually for Denmark, plenty of sunshine are Bornholm's calling cards. This Baltic island is situated approximately 124 miles (200 kilometres) east of the Danish capital, and is a place of history and great scenic beauty.
Bornholm's main town is Ronne, a west coast ferry port of cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. Learn something of its past with a visit to the Bornholm Museum. See Viking artifacts, old clocks and gilded weaponry. Venture northeast from here to find the Østerlars Kirke. This is the largest of the island’s four medieval round churches and is thought to date back to the middle of the 12th century.
To the north, enjoy the tranquil locale of Hasle surrounded by pine woods, beaches and coastal cliffs. See ancient herring smokehouses with their distinctive square chimneys. Here, large batches of fish are smoked for hours in wood-fired ovens.
Bornholm is one of the sunniest spots in Denmark and there are many days when you can unwind on a beach. Find them dotted all round the island, from secluded spots to family-friendly sandy expanses with clear, shallow water. Head to the pure white sands of Dueodde Beach, which extends for several miles across the island's southern tip. Climb up Dueodde Lighthouse, said to be the tallest lighthouse in Denmark.
Another delightful spot by the sea is the attractive resort of Allinge-Sandvig on Bornholm’s northern coast. While you are here, visit the ruins of Hammershus, an ancient castle built to defend the island. It is thought that the oldest section dates back to the 12th century.
Explore more of Bornholm’s scenery with a hike through Slotslyngen, a diverse landscape on the northern tip. Follow the coastal path through forests of pine and oak and by rock formations. Venture to Paradisbakkerne, a group of hills known as the Hills of Paradise.
Reach Bornholm’s beaches and historic sites via a 30-minute flight from Copenhagen into Ronne Airport. Get around by rental car, bus or bicycle. The mild climate makes for easy riding.
