PostNord Danmark Rundt: Bornholm hosts the opening stage

PostNord Danmark Rundt: Bornholm to host the opening stage

On August 12, 2025, the opening stage of PostNord Danmark Rundt will start on Bornholm – the island’s first time ever hosting the Grand Départ.

It will be a day of speed, atmosphere, and world-class cycling in one of Denmark’s most scenic landscapes.

Whether you’re a dedicated cycling fan or just curious about the atmosphere, it’s worth being there. Bring family and friends, find a spot along the route – and feel the rush as the peloton flies past in stunning surroundings.

Ride with sea views and rolling terrain

The stage runs from Nexø to Rønne and covers 178.1 km with around 1,700 metres of elevation gain. It sounds like a lot – but the route can easily be broken into shorter stages.

You can explore the eastern coastal segments through Paradisbakkerne and Gudhjem, or take on the western loops around Hasle and Helligpeder.

Highlights along the route:

• Paradisbakkerne – hilly and technical terrain with narrow forest roads. Not steep, but challenging.
• Svaneke – cobbled square, microbrewery, and locally made ice cream with sea view.
• Gudhjem – steep descent to the harbour and the smell of smoked fish in the air.
• Østerlars Round Church – a historic landmark in the heart of the island.
• Helligpeder fishing village – one of the race’s most decisive points: a steep climb with a 180-degree turn. The peloton passes this point three times.

Cort returns home – and you can follow in his tracks

Magnus Cort, one of Denmark’s most successful riders, grew up on Bornholm. It was on these small, wind-exposed roads that he learned to race. When he rolls out from Nexø, it’s both a homecoming and a major moment.

Whether you’re a pro or a passionate amateur, you can experience the same roads, curves, and coastal headwinds – giving this route a unique mix of challenge and connection.

Local riders, local dreams

The UCI team BHS–PL Beton Bornholm is on the start list – and they’re racing with ambition this year. The team is based in Rønne and has had a strong season leading up to the race.

One of their young riders, Asger Røjbek Sørensen, started his journey in Bornholm’s local cycling club. Now, he lines up against international competition – on the very roads where it all began.

Discoveries just off the route

One of the best things about cycling on Bornholm is that you’re always close to something – nature, history, local food or coastal views.

Taste the route:
Smokehouses line the route like pearls on a string. Stop by in Hasle, and in Allinge – home to both Nordbornholms Røgeri and Allinge Røgeri. You’ll also find smokehouses in Gudhjem, Svaneke, Nexø and cosy Aarsdale.

Got a sweet tooth? In Svaneke you’ll find handmade chocolates, hard candy made the traditional way, and the locally famous Krølle-Bølle ice cream.

Make a stop at:

• Vang Granite Quarry
• Hammershus Castle Ruins (just north of the route)
• Ny Church (Nyker Round Church)

Getting to Bornholm is easier than you think

Despite being an island, Bornholm is quick and easy to reach – with or without your bike:

• Flight from Copenhagen to Rønne – just 35 minutes
• Ferry from Ystad (with direct train and bus connections from Copenhagen)

Ride like the pros – or at your own pace

Whether you ride the full route or just a segment, Bornholm is ideal if you love climbs, nature and smooth asphalt under your wheels.

See the route → postnorddanmarkrundt.dk/etape-1-2025
Bornholm Cycling Guide → bornholm.info/bornholms-cycling-guide

Route facts:

Start/Finish: Nexø → Rønne
Distance: 178.1 km
Elevation gain: approx. 1,700 m
Level: Advanced (but can be divided into smaller rides)
Surface: Mostly asphalt
Loop section: Yes – 3 laps around Helligpeder

Bike-friendly accommodation near the route

Want to combine the race experience with a cycling holiday? Bornholm has many bike-friendly places to stay, offering secure bike storage, washing facilities and tools for basic maintenance.