The Nordics • Insider guides • 10 essential things to see and do in Bornholm this winter
Winter on the island of Bornholm, Denmark, far removed from the main land, offers an appealing mix of natural beauty, culture and seasonal charm. While summer draws beachgoers and huge crowds, winter reveals a quieter, more contemplative side of the island. Snow-dusted forests, dramatic coastlines and small villages set the stage for unforgettable experiences. Wander through frost-covered Almindingen Forest, explore Bornholm’s art and history museums or warm up with seasonal delicacies at local smokehouses and craft breweries. Embrace the slower pace, breathe in the crisp sea air and discover the island’s unique appeal during the colder months.
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Winter casts a spell over Hammershus, turning Denmark’s largest castle ruin into a hauntingly beautiful escape. It was originally built in the 1100s and was declared a national monument in 1822. With frost edging the ancient stone walls and the Baltic Sea shimmering under a pale winter sun, the atmosphere feels almost mystical. Wander through the windswept remains of the fortress, imagining the lives of medieval kings, bishops and exiles from Sweden, Germany and Denmark who once roamed these grounds. Few visitors venture here in the colder months, making it an ideal time to explore in near solitude. Warm up afterward at the nearby visitor centre with a steaming cup of coffee while gazing at the rugged landscape outside.
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Embrace the festive spirit in Bornholm this winter by visiting its charming Christmas markets. In Nexø, the harbour transforms into a Nordic wonderland, with wooden stalls offering handcrafted gifts and local delicacies. At Smedjen in Tejn, the industrial harbour setting provides a rustic backdrop for artisans showcasing ceramics, jewellery, and more. As you wander through these markets, the scent of mulled wine and traditional Danish treats like æbleskiver (fried light batter, like a doughnut) fills the air. Engage with local craftspeople, find unique presents and immerse yourself in the island’s warm, festive atmosphere. A visit to one of Bornholm’s best Christmas markets offers a delightfully cheerful holiday experience in a tranquil but jovial setting. There are plenty to choose from so keep an eye out online.
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Checking into a ‘badehotel’ on Bornholm during winter offers a unique blend of coastal charm and cosy comfort. While many of the best hotels on the island operate seasonally, a select few establishments around the island remain open year-round, providing you with warm hospitality even in the colder months, one of which is the venerable Stammershalle Badehotel, which after a brisk seaside walk offers a snug ambiance that we love. Reclining on the couch in one of the hotel’s lounges with unobstructed views over the Baltic sea epitomises the Danish concept of ’hygge’ at its finest.
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Feel the calm at Dueodde Beach, where fine white sand meets the Baltic Sea’s ever-changing blues. In winter, the beach transforms into a tranquil haven, its vast dunes and whispering pines dusted with frost. Take a quiet stroll along the shoreline, letting the brisk sea air clear your mind while waves gently (or quite violently on windy days) lap at the shore. The iconic Dueodde lighthouse, standing tall against the wintry sky, adds a sense of timelessness to the landscape. There’s a stillness here that invites reflection – a rare moment where nature’s simplicity feels both grounding and revitalising.
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In winter, local creatives open their studios and ateliers, giving you the chance to meet them in person without the summer crowds. Some have regular opening hours, while others welcome visitors by appointment. It’s an ideal time to explore Bornholm’s artisan scene at your own pace. At Pernille Bülow’s glass workshop, watch glowing glass take shape into elegant ornaments and decorative pieces. Ceramicist Vibe Berland’s rustic studio is filled with earthy, handcrafted pottery perfect for thoughtful gifts. Don’t miss ceramics at Lov i Listed, interior design at Storms Rum or Forma in Nexø – intimate and inspiring spaces to visit.
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Explore Bornholm’s museums and dive into its mix of art, history, and architecture. Check out the Bornholm Art Museum, where Nordic art meets modernist design. Set above the rocky coast near Helligdomsklipperne, its bright galleries offer sweeping views of the Baltic Sea. Inside, you’ll find works by local artists like Oluf Høst and rotating exhibits on Nordic life and landscapes. In Rønne, Bornholm Museum digs into the island’s Viking and medieval history with fascinating artefacts. In winter, these spots are so quiet you’ll almost have them to yourself – perfect for escaping the cold and soaking up Bornholm’s creative and historical vibe.
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Dive into the icy thrill of winter swimming on Bornholm, a tradition locals swear by. Start at Hasle Havnebad, a harbour bath with floating platforms, springboards and pools offering stunning views of Hasle and the Baltic Sea. Warm up with coffee after a dip or join the local swimming club with its sauna and private pool access. Stay at Stammershalle Badehotel, with cosy rooms and sea views, or Nordlandet, offering minimalist luxury by the cliffs. Also visit Arnager’s sheltered beach, known for calm waters and dramatic scenery. The contrast between the Baltic’s frosty embrace and cosy warmth indoors makes winter swimming a uniquely Bornholm adventure.
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