Background

Bison På Bornholm

Denmark's only bison sanctuary—witness Europe's wild giants in an ancient forest after 2,000 years.

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Bison På Bornholm is a unique wildlife sanctuary in Almindingen Forest near Aakirkeby, where visitors can observe a small herd of European bison roaming within a 200-hectare paddock. This remarkable nature experiment, established in 2012, marks the first time these massive mammals have inhabited Denmark in over 2,000 years. The site offers free access, scenic forest pathways, and the rare opportunity to encounter these impressive creatures in their natural habitat.

A brief summary to Bison På Bornholm

  • Chr. X Vej, Aakirkeby, 3720, DK
  • Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 2 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during spring or autumn for the best chance of spotting bison, as they are more active in cooler weather and less obscured by dense summer foliage.
  • Maintain at least 100 meters distance from any bison you encounter, as advised by the Danish Nature Agency, for your safety and the animals' wellbeing.
  • Bring binoculars and patience—bison spotting requires time and luck, but the reward of observing these rare creatures in their natural habitat is unforgettable.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Ekkodalen ravine, Rokkestenen rocking stone, and NaturBornholm museum for a full day of exploration.
  • Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing, as forest conditions can be muddy and unpredictable throughout the year.
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Getting There

  • Car from Aakirkeby town center

    Drive approximately 5 kilometers northeast from Aakirkeby town center via local roads toward Almindingen Forest. The journey takes about 8–10 minutes. Follow signs for Almindingen or Bisonskoven (Bison Forest). Parking is available within the forest at multiple designated areas near the paddock entrance. No entrance fee is required.

  • Bicycle from Aakirkeby

    Cycle approximately 5 kilometers from Aakirkeby town center on regional cycling routes toward Almindingen Forest, taking about 15–20 minutes depending on fitness level and route selection. The forest is accessible via established cycling paths. Bike parking is available at the forest entrance. This is a popular cycling destination on Bornholm.

  • Bus from Rønne

    Take a regional bus service from Rønne (approximately 15 kilometers away, 20–25 minute journey) toward Aakirkeby or Almindingen. Service frequency varies seasonally, typically 2–4 buses daily. Confirm current schedules with local transport providers. From the bus stop, walk or cycle the remaining distance to the forest entrance.

  • Guided tour from Aakirkeby

    Several local tour operators in Aakirkeby offer guided wildlife and forest tours that include Bison På Bornholm as part of broader Almindingen experiences. Tours typically last 2–4 hours and include transportation, interpretation, and higher chances of wildlife observation. Advance booking is recommended, particularly during peak season (June–August).

Bison På Bornholm location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Cold Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Bison På Bornholm

A Living Bridge to Europe's Wild Past

Bison På Bornholm represents one of Europe's most ambitious rewilding projects. In 2012, a small founding herd of seven European bison—six cows and one bull—were introduced into a carefully managed 200-hectare paddock within Almindingen Forest, one of Denmark's largest and most ancient woodlands. Today, the herd has grown to approximately ten individuals, making this sanctuary a living monument to conservation and ecological restoration. For more than 2,000 years, these magnificent creatures had been absent from Danish soil, making their presence here a profound reconnection with the continent's natural heritage.

Encountering Giants in the Forest

The bison inhabit a designated paddock within the vast expanse of Almindingen, accessible by car with dedicated parking areas throughout the forest. Visitors can explore the sanctuary via a network of well-maintained pathways that wind through the ancient woodland, offering multiple vantage points for observation. While spotting the bison requires patience and luck—the animals roam across substantial terrain and are not confined to viewing areas—the experience of searching for them creates an authentic wildlife encounter. The Danish Nature Agency, which manages the forest, recommends maintaining a respectful distance of at least 100 meters from the animals for safety and to minimize disturbance.

The Landscape and Forest Setting

Almindingen Forest provides a dramatic backdrop for this conservation effort. The woodland encompasses 2,400 hectares of ancient forest, dotted with lakes, natural rock formations, and scenic viewpoints. The forest's varied terrain—from dense woodland to open glades—creates diverse habitats that support the bison population while offering visitors multiple ways to experience the landscape. The highest point on Bornholm, Rytterknaegten at 162 meters, rises within the forest boundaries, providing panoramic views across the island. The surrounding agricultural landscape and gentle hills create a picturesque setting that contrasts beautifully with the wild nature of the bison reserve.

A Gateway to Bornholm's Natural Wonders

Bison På Bornholm serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the broader natural attractions of central Bornholm. Nearby lies Ekkodalen, a dramatic ravine with steep cliffs and striking rock formations, accessible within a short drive. The location also provides convenient access to Rokkestenen, the famous "rocking stone"—a large glacial erratic that can be gently rocked by hand. Nylars Church, one of Bornholm's distinctive round churches with preserved medieval frescoes, lies just a few kilometers away. The proximity to NaturBornholm, a modern science and visitor center showcasing the island's geological and natural history, makes this area a comprehensive destination for nature and heritage enthusiasts.

Practical Considerations for Visitors

The sanctuary operates with free admission, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors. The site is open year-round, though seasonal variations affect both the landscape and wildlife visibility. Spring and autumn typically offer the best conditions for bison spotting, as the animals are more active during cooler months. The forest provides natural shelter, though visitors should come prepared for variable weather conditions. Mobile reception in the forest area is moderate, and amenities are limited to parking and basic facilities, so visitors should plan accordingly. The experience is best suited to those with patience, a genuine interest in wildlife observation, and a willingness to embrace the unpredictability of nature.

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