Hiking on Bornholm - Get routes, stages and packing list

Hiking on Bornholm includes everything from rocky coasts and forest trails to open moorland areas, where you can go on short day trips or plan several stages. Here you will get an overview of popular areas, practical equipment considerations and small tips that make the trip more comfortable and gentle on nature.

Bornholm is ideal for a variety of pace and terrain. Coastal stretches offer views and opportunities for breaks at the beach, while the inland offers forests, lakes and hills. Areas like Hammerknuden and Hammershus are known for cliffs and paths with many changes of direction, while Almindingen is a good fit if you want longer, quieter forest kilometers. Many also plan stages that include Dueodde, where paths and beach sections can easily be combined according to your day's fitness.

If you want to combine several days of hiking, the Højlyngsstien is a natural focal point because it provides structure for stages and breaks. Think in terms of intermediate goals: starting point, water stop and a place to eat before you set off on the final part of the route. Around Rytterknægten, the surface can change between gravel, roots and firm forest paths, so it makes sense to plan by time rather than kilometers. A simple rule of thumb is to build the day with a longer middle part and shorter “in and out” from towns or overnight stays.

When packing for Bornholm, it's often about flexibility: layers you can regulate, and things with high utility value. Water and food are the basics, and an insulated drinking bottle can be handy if you want to keep liquids cold or hot over several hours. A sturdy bottle like the Premium Adventure Bottle is made of stainless steel and is well suited for longer stretches without frequent stops.

Additionally, a quick-drying towel can make a difference if you combine hiking with bathing, or just want to be able to wipe off sweat and moisture during breaks. Outdoor Towels are easy to pack and designed for outdoor use, so you can hang them up and let them dry when you arrive.

Stick to multi-purpose gear and avoid unnecessary packing. This will make your backpack more manageable and reduce waste. Also, choose solutions that require fewer washes along the way, so you use less water when you're on the go.

On hikes on Bornholm, humidity and changing weather can make textiles “heavy” to carry around more quickly. Here, Polygiene StayFresh technology can be relevant: It is a silver-based, antibacterial textile treatment that has been developed to inhibit bacterial growth and help neutralize odors, so that the textile can feel fresher for longer. In practice, this can mean fewer washes on a multi-day trip, which is both practical and can save water. When you dry textiles along the way, it is usually enough to hang them up and give them time, rather than wringing them hard.

Bornholm is easy to explore on foot, but good habits make the experience better for both you and the surroundings. Stick to established paths, especially where the ground is vulnerable, and plan breaks so you don't leave behind litter or food scraps. One last tip is to pack simply: the fewer disposables you bring, the less will end up as waste, and the easier your hike will be.