The Pearl of the Baltic

Bornholm is a Danish island in the Baltic Sea off the south coast of Sweden, known for its unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and charming coastal towns. As you can see from the map, the island is actually quite a distance from Denmark, yet closer to Sweden, Poland and Germany.

Often called the "Pearl of the Baltic," Bornholm offers scenic landscapes of rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, and lush forests. Our excursion took us north of Ronne, passing through the forest of Almindingen, along farmlands of wheat and corn, and into small villages.

We explored charming fishing villages, including Gudhjem with its vibrant harbor. There, we paused to admire the wish stones—stacks of pebbles, each representing someone's hope. I built my own stack. I must have been concentrating too hard because I forgot to make a wish!

Along beautiful windswept coasts Bornholm is popular for cycling, hiking, and water sports. The are also noteworthy for the unique Nordic round churches. They typically have three floors - the ground floor for worship, a middle floor for storage, and a top floor that could be used for defense. They date back to the 12th century, making them some of the oldest buildings on the island.

We saw the artistic side of Bornhom as well with a journey to some impressive glass blowing workshops and exhibitions.

The island also has several Medieval structures including Hammershus Castle ruin, perched dramatically on a clifftop on Bornholm's northern coast. It is the largest medieval fortress in Northern Europe. Built in the early 13th century, this once-mighty stronghold played a crucial role in the island's turbulent history, serving as a residence for the island's rulers and a strategic defensive fortification before falling into disrepair in the 18th century. Today, its weathered stone walls and commanding views of the Baltic Sea provided a fascinating glimpse into the island's rich past.

Bornholm's unique charm lies in its ability to offer both tranquility and excitement, appealing to nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and travelers seeking a serene Baltic retreat—even if only for a day's escape from a hectic itinerary.