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The Ø-dyssey
PART VI

FAR EAST DENMARK: The wild island of Bornholm in the Baltic sea and the three islands in Erteholmene

Far to the East in Denmark, the islands of Bornholm lies in isolation. It's part of Denmark, but the landscape and to some extend also the local tongue is more close to Sweden. It is a fascinating place to roam around.

 

The islands are made of granite rock, including dramatic formations, and has many natural and historical wonders.

We have been visiting these islands for more than 10 times throughout the years.

 

Hiking and camping excursions to 4 unique island destinations in Bornholm & Erteholmene in the far east of Denmark

From a rugged coastlines and sandy beaches to lush forests and rolling hills, the island of Bornholm offers a variety of natural beauty that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The Helligdomsklipperne (Sanctuary Cliffs), a cluster of dramatic cliffs, are about 20 meters high and feature several caves that you can be explored. The cliffs are named after a holy spring that was believed to have healing properties. Dueodde Beach is famous for its incredibly fine, white sand - the sand is so fine that it was once used in hourglasses. Døndalen is Denmark's highest waterfall in a lush valley perfect for hiking with views of the Baltic Sea. Ekkodalen (Echo Valley) is the longest rift valley on Bornholm and is known for its impressive echo. The valley is surrounded by steep cliffs and dense forests, making it also a great spot for hiking. Hammerknuden,  located at the northern tip of Bornholm, is a rugged granite headland with stunning coastal views. The area is great for hiking, and you can also visit the nearby Hammershus Castle ruins,

These - as well as many more - natural sights and phenomena make Bornholm a fantastic destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The island is also steeped in history, with ancient ruins, medieval churches, and charming villages. The Hammershus Castle ruins, for example, is one of Northern Europe's largest medieval fortresses. ​Nowadays, Bornholm is a hub for artists and craftsmen, offering numerous galleries and workshops with pottery, glass art, and other crafts. Bornholm is also known for its culinary delights. The island boasts several gourmet restaurants that use local ingredients to create delicious dishes. Don't miss trying the smoked herring, a local specialty

 

One hour's sailing east of Bonrholm, the Erteholmene archipelago offers a enique island experience: a group of small islands with no cars, several historical sites, including the Great Tower on Christiansø, built in 1684, and various old military installations. These sites provide a glimpse into the islands' past and offer stunning views of the surrounding sea​. Ertholmene's natural beauty is captivating. The islands are a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, with several points offering 360-degree views of the sea. The peaceful atmosphere and untouched landscapes make it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. While the islands have limited dining options, you can enjoy local specialties like marinated herrings and Slåensnaps (Blackthorn Schnapps).  With only about 100 inhabitants, Ertholmene offers a close-knit community feel - that speciale close community feel. The islands' small population and limited tourist facilities ensure an intimate experience

Background information about the Ø-dyssey project and our selection of 130 islands to be visited in total can be found here.

 

Check out our other Ø-dyssey travel sites:

PART I: Tip of Denmark & offshore islands

PART II: Islands off Central & Southern Jutland

PART III: Islands in the Belts, North Funen, Ærø & Langeland

PART IV: South Funen Archipelago 

PART V: Islands off Zealand

This part

PART VII: The South Sea Islands

 

Selected pics from all islands - part VI:

© Anders M. Pedersen & Jakob M. Pedersen. All photos have been taken by Anders & Jakob.

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