Cozy experiences for couples this winter
More and more visitors are discovering Bornholm all year round – and we understand why. Bornholm is something truly special, especially in winter. The winter island offers beautiful natural experiences and countless outdoor activities, cosy moments of relaxation, world-class craftsmanship – and in November and December, small and charming Christmas markets pop up all across the island.
Visiting Bornholm in winter brings you even closer to the essence of the island. Nature reveals its beauty and power, as the wind paints your cheeks red along wide sandy beaches and rugged cliffs.
The cuisine is rustic and rich in local ingredients, shaped by the island’s soil and fresh sea air. The locals are warm and welcoming. This is the time to feel the rhythm of the island – and to let the calm settle in.
Visiting Bornholm in winter reveals a wilder side of nature – a completely different experience than in summer. Walking along the wide sandy beaches and rugged cliffs takes on a new kind of magic.
The Bornholm cliffs may be at their most beautiful in winter, as wind and light bring out the raw, dramatic character of the rocky landscape.
Put on your hiking boots and explore the island’s many excellent trails – not just along the coast, but also inland through forests and valleys.
The beaches at Dueodde are a favourite destination for both locals and visitors, who enjoy walking in the dunes or along the water’s edge. When night falls, the stars light up above Bornholm, offering what might just be Denmark’s most beautiful night sky.
In the heart of the island lies Almindingen – Bornholm’s largest forest. Here you might spot a European bison in its winter coat or marvel at the dramatic cliffs of Ekkodalen. Almindingen is also home to challenging mountain bike trails, and with over 230 km of well-maintained cycling paths, the whole island is ideal for exploring on two wheels.
On North Bornholm, you can experience the raw beauty of nature and the echo of history at Hammershus – Northern Europe’s largest castle ruin, perched high on a cliff above the sea. Walk the old lifeboat path from Hammershus to Vang – one of the most scenic routes on the island.
There are many ways to experience Bornholm’s nature in winter. You can also take an icy plunge at one of the harbour baths – or try your luck at catching a sea trout.
Winter is a magical time to visit Bornholm. The island’s dramatic cliffs, cosy towns and quiet winter landscapes create the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway. Here are a few practical tips for your winter trip:
Winter on Bornholm offers different kinds of experiences depending on when you visit. In November and December, small and charming Christmas markets appear all across the island – perfect for holiday shopping and soaking up the Christmas spirit.
In January and February, the pace slows down. This is the time for reflection and presence – with crisp, frosty days and snowy landscapes if you’re lucky.
By ferry: Bornholmslinjen sails year-round from Ystad in Sweden, with good connections from Copenhagen by train, bus or car.
By plane: DAT flies directly to Bornholm from Copenhagen – perfect for a cosy winter weekend.
If you’re planning to bring your dog or cat on holiday to Bornholm, please note that special travel regulations apply when travelling via Sweden.
You can read more here → bornholm.info/bornholm-with-pets
√ Warm clothes in layers – winter weather can change quickly, so wool and windproof outerwear are essential
√ Hiking boots – many of the island’s beautiful trails are open year-round
√ A thermos – ideal for hot coffee or cocoa on your winter walks
√ A flashlight or headlamp – days are short, so a little extra light can be handy
√ A good book – slow down, curl up in a soft chair and enjoy a peaceful day
With these tips, you’re ready to embrace Bornholm’s winter charm – whether you’re dreaming of a spa weekend, a cold dip from the cliffs or a café crawl through the island’s coziest corners.
While Bornholm in winter invites you to explore frosty hiking trails and wave-beaten coastlines, a cold day can also be the perfect excuse to discover the island’s many cozy indoor gems.
Here, you can dive into art, history and wellness – or simply enjoy a slow-paced day with warm drinks and the gentle crackle of a fireplace.
When the wind howls outside, seek shelter at Bornholm’s Art Museum, where Nordic light, contemporary art and dramatic nature come together near the Helligdomsklipperne cliffs. Or take a journey through time at Bornholm Museum, where you can explore the island’s rich history – from Viking times to the herring smokehouses.
At Hjorths Fabrik in Rønne, you’ll find one of Denmark’s oldest still-active pottery workshops. Watch skilled artisans throw, glaze and fire traditional Bornholm stoneware, and feel the legacy of generations in the historic workshop buildings. Perhaps you’ll even find a handcrafted mug or bowl to take home as a souvenir?
After a brisk winter day in nature, there’s nothing better than warming up in a steamy seaside sauna or enjoying a soothing spa experience. Try winter swimming followed by a hot stone massage – the perfect mix of cold and warmth.
Bornholm has plenty to offer – even when winter shows its frosty side. Ready to treat yourself to a relaxing winter experience?
Get into the Christmas spirit on Bornholm. Here, you won’t find long queues in shops, heavy traffic or parking struggles – instead, you’ll get close to the locals and experience the island in a whole new way during the winter season.
Many of Bornholm’s artisans welcome visitors into their workshops, where you can chat about their craft, hear their personal stories – and of course, pick up a unique handmade Christmas gift to take home.
In November and December, Bornholm offers a variety of charming Christmas events and markets. It’s hard not to feel festive as you explore the island dressed in lights, scents and cozy traditions.
The winter island of Bornholm is wild nature, clear starry nights, stunning rocky coastlines and long white sandy beaches. All of it seasoned with world-class craftsmanship, delicious culinary experiences made with local ingredients – and in November and December, small and charming Christmas markets pop up all across the island.
In short: a winter visit to Bornholm offers new experiences. The island feels different – but it’s just as magical.
Plan your winter adventure now:
→ Find great places to stay on Bornholm
→ How to get to Bornholm easily
→ Overview of Christmas markets and events
We look forward to welcoming you to the winter island of Bornholm.
