Bornholm

Leaving Ronne, you’ll head towards the northern tip of the island to visit the impressive medieval fortress of Hammershus. Built to defend the island against attack, it is today the largest castle ruins in Northern Europe and the most popular attraction on Bornholm.

Afterwards, drive along the shore passing through the villages of Allinge- Sandvig and Tejn to reach Gudhjem (good home). Built on steep rocky slopes by the water, this is a very pretty and lively village. With its steep streets, gable houses and several interesting shops, this is a great place to wander at leisure. Visit Østerlars Round Church, the largest church on Bornholm Island. Dating back to 1150, it was used both as a house of worship and as a place for refuge and protection from enemies.

Standing proudly at the northern tip of the island is the impressive medieval fortress of Hammershus, the largest castle ruins in Northern Europe. The fortress consists of several walls and buildings, built on a rocky hilltop right on the edge of the sea – a perfect place to spot an approaching enemy!

Allinge-Sandvig is a fishing village not far from the ruins. Around the harbour and the centre of Allinge, you’ll find restaurants and cafés, which cater for all tastes. However, a visit to Bornholm would not be complete without tasting the ‘Bornholmer’ – smoked herring. Visit a traditional smokehouse to see how they prepare the herrings and finally, with a glass of beer, enjoy some for yourself.

Travelling down the coast, you’ll reach the fishing village of Gudhjem and take a stroll through its charming streets on the hunt for a souvenir or two!

Cross the island to reach the fishing village of Svaneke, the easternmost town in Denmark. You’ll have the chance to walk through the charming village with its half-timbered houses, twisting streets and old stone fences. Behind these fences, you’ll find cliff gardens with mulberries and figs. Numerous galleries, glassblowers, potters and artisans make Svaneke unique and special. Of particular note is the walk along the old groove ‘Brænderigænget’.

No visit would be complete without a trip to a brew house, located in one of the historical trading posts of the village. Even if you don’t like beer, it is well worth a look. Learn about the brewing methods and then take a walk through the buildings to see the production, before enjoying some of the homemade beer.

Your return route to Ronne takes you through the changing landscape of Bornholm, passing Almindingen, one of the biggest forests in Denmark. In the middle of the island is the highest point called Rytterknaegten, rising 530 feet above sea level.

Your journey back in time begins by heading west along the coast to Hammershus, Northern Europe’s largest medieval fortress 243 feet above sea level, on Hammeren. Enjoy a short photo stop to capture the Mantel Tower and the great stone wall stretching 2450 feet around the castle grounds.

Enjoy stunning scenery as you drive through the quaint fishing village, Gudhjem, situated on the rocky hillside facing the sea.

The Medieval Village is surrounded by beautiful woodland, rocky pastures and the nobleman’s fortress on the hilltop, rising up against the sky. Upon arrival the Middle Ages will spring to life as your senses are filled with the delicious aromas from the food stalls, while musicians and jugglers from the north and the south conquer the market place with traditional tunes and merriment. Meet the merchants from near and far and experience exciting market stalls displaying various arts and crafts. See the gristmill’s large millstone use the force of water to turn grain into flour. Listen out for the cannon thunder and admire the prowess of the soldiers as they demonstrate medieval sword fighting techniques.

Upon arrival at the quayside your guided ramble around Rønne begins. Strolling through the small, winding cobbled streets of the old town, it is easy to see why the town is referred to as the ‘Garden Town’. Admire the beautiful gardens, with their sweet smelling lilac and fruit trees. Vibrant hollyhocks adorn many of the buildings making this a true delight for keen gardeners. Make sure your camera is close at hand, to capture some exceptional examples of the 17th century half-timbered houses.

During your walk, you’ll pass by the Freedom Fighters Memorial, commemorating the 1658 uprising, and Denmark’s oldest active theatre dating back to 1823. At the end of this orientation you may wish to remain in town or return with your guide to the ship.