Bisonskoven, Bornholm (Bison Forest in Almindingen)
Walk into a living rewilding experiment in Almindingen, where European bison shape Bornholm’s forest and quiet paths invite close, careful encounters with wild nature.
Hidden within Almindingen, Bornholm’s great central forest, Bisonskoven is a fenced reserve where a small herd of European bison graze among glades and heath. Created as a rewilding project in 2012, it offers a rare chance to see these massive herbivores in Denmark while wandering quiet forest paths, viewpoints and wetlands. You may not always spot the animals, but the mix of conservation story, tranquil woodland and light adventure makes this a memorable nature stop near Aakirkeby.
A brief summary to Bisonskoven, Bornholm
- Unnamed Road, Aakirkeby, 3720, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens; the recommended 100‑metre safety distance means you will appreciate the extra reach when watching the bison.
- Wear sturdy shoes and weather‑appropriate layers, as forest paths can be muddy, rooty and cooler than the coast, especially in spring and autumn.
- Plan extra time if you really hope to see the bison; moving slowly, pausing at clearings and revisiting at a different time of day increases your chances.
- If you are cycling, use marked forest routes and respect gates and signs around the enclosure to avoid disturbing wildlife and sensitive habitats.
- Pack water and snacks, as there are no food outlets inside the forest itself; treat it as a self‑contained nature excursion.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Drinking Water
Getting There
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Car from Rønne
From Rønne, driving to the Bisonskoven area in Almindingen typically takes 20–30 minutes depending on traffic and your exact starting point. The route follows Bornholm’s main roads across the island and then narrower forest roads toward the bison enclosure. Parking is free at designated forest car parks, but spaces can be limited in peak summer. There is no entrance fee to the forest or bison paddock, so your only cost is fuel for the journey.
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Bus and walk from Aakirkeby
Public buses connect Rønne with Aakirkeby in around 25–35 minutes, with tickets usually costing in the range of 30–50 DKK one way for adults. From Aakirkeby you should allow 45–75 minutes on foot along local and forest roads to reach the Bisonskoven area, depending on your pace. Paths in the forest can be uneven and muddy after rain, so this option suits reasonably fit walkers more than those with limited mobility.
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Cycling from nearby Bornholm villages
Bornholm is well set up for cycling, and reaching Almindingen and Bisonskoven by bike from villages such as Aakirkeby or Østermarie typically takes 30–60 minutes each way. Distances are moderate but you should expect some gentle hills on forest approaches and mixed surfaces, from paved lanes to gravel tracks. There is no fee to enter the forest, and you can use standard road bikes or e‑bikes, taking extra care where cycling routes share space with cars or walkers.
Bisonskoven, Bornholm location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
- Snow
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Hot Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Bisonskoven, Bornholm
Rewilding Giants in the Heart of Bornholm
Bisonskoven sits in the middle of Almindingen, one of Denmark’s largest forests and the green heart of Bornholm. Here, within a 200‑hectare enclosure of mixed woodland, heath and clearings, a herd of European bison has been reintroduced as part of a long‑term nature restoration project. These are the continent’s heaviest land mammals, once wiped out in the wild and now returning through careful breeding programs. The first animals arrived here in 2012, marking the species’ return to Danish nature after more than two millennia. Today a modest herd roams the paddock, shaping the landscape as they graze and trample vegetation. Their presence creates a patchwork of open glades, scrub and young trees that benefits birds, insects and wildflowers, turning this corner of Almindingen into a living ecological laboratory.Forest Landscapes and the Enclosed Bison Range
Step through the gates into the enclosure and the character of the forest subtly changes. Wide firebreaks cut through stands of spruce and deciduous trees, while damp hollows and small bogs give way to sunlit openings where the bison often feed. Waymarked paths and broader forest tracks weave through the area, sometimes skirting fences, sometimes diving deep into dense woodland. The bison range is big enough that you can walk for a while without meeting anyone, especially if you explore away from the main access points. Observation spots on slight rises overlook meadows and wetland fringes, perfect places to pause and scan the horizon. Even when the animals remain out of view, the sense of being in their territory lends the landscape an almost primeval feel.Spotting Bison Safely and Respectfully
Seeing the bison is never guaranteed, and that uncertainty is part of the experience. The animals may be resting in the shade, hidden by young trees, or grazing in distant clearings. Patience and quiet movement help: stop regularly, listen for heavy footsteps or branches breaking, and watch for dark shapes against the lighter grass. Safety rules are simple but important. Visitors are advised to keep at least 100 metres away from the animals, giving them space to move freely. Approaching too closely, surrounding them or trying to attract their attention is dangerous for both people and bison. Dogs must be under tight control and should not be taken into the enclosure if they react strongly to large animals.Walking, Cycling and Seasonal Atmospheres
Many people experience Bisonskoven on foot along sections of the marked Bison Path, a longer circular route through Almindingen that passes straight through the enclosure. Others arrive by bicycle, combining the reserve with viewpoints, castle ruins and lakes elsewhere in the forest. The terrain is mostly gentle, though roots, soft ground and occasional muddy stretches can make sturdy footwear a good idea. Each season adds its own character. In spring, fresh leaves and birdsong fill the air while bison shed their thick winter coats. Summer brings warm light, buzzing insects and the richest green canopy. Autumn paints the forest in gold and copper, sometimes with mist hanging in the hollows, and winter can transform the paddock into a quiet, frost‑silvered world where every bison track in the snow tells a story.Conservation Value and Quiet Moments in Nature
Beyond the thrill of spotting large wildlife, Bisonskoven is a window into how big herbivores can help shape more diverse, semi‑natural landscapes. The project is closely monitored, with attention to animal welfare, vegetation change and the wider impact on Almindingen’s ecosystems. It illustrates how carefully managed reintroductions can reconnect people with species once known only from history books. For visitors, the reserve offers pockets of deep silence broken only by wind in the treetops or the distant call of a bird. Benches and informal resting spots provide places to sit and absorb the surroundings, whether you are here for a brisk walk, a family outing, a nature‑photography session or a reflective pause in the middle of Bornholm.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Klintebakken
5.8 km
A billion-year geological journey where ancient granite meets younger sandstone at Bornholm's most scientifically significant fault line.
Louisenlund
8.3 km
Over 50 ancient standing stones in a mystical woodland setting, revealing Bornholm's Neolithic ritual landscape.
Midterpilt
9.4 km
A modest stone cairn marking the highest point of Paradisbakkerne, Midterpilt is a quiet waypoint on Bornholm’s wildest woodland and heathland hiking routes.
Melsted Havn
10.7 km
An authentic 1884 granite harbour preserving Bornholm's fishing heritage between protective skerries.
Geografisk knudepunkt
12.8 km
Where latitude and longitude meet: Denmark's geographic heart on the Bornholm coast.
Slemmegrav
14.1 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Slemmegrav, a hidden gem in Rønne, Denmark, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Snogebæk Havn
14.5 km
Bornholm's easternmost harbor where fishing tradition, artisan culture, and pristine beaches converge.
Bornholms Ø-arkiv
15.2 km
Bornholm's premier archive preserving centuries of island genealogy and local history.
Den russiske bjørn
15.6 km
Explore the enchanting Den russiske bjørn in Rønne, a unique tourist attraction steeped in local culture and history, perfect for memorable experiences.
Asylcenter Rønne & Segen
15.8 km
Experience community living at Asylcenter Rønne & Segen, a unique apartment-style accommodation in beautiful Bornholm, Denmark.
Ronne Lighthouse
16.0 km
A slender white cast-iron lighthouse above Rønne’s harbour, once a vital guiding light and now a simple, elegant symbol of Bornholm’s maritime gateway.
Destination Bornholm ApS
16.3 km
Discover the enchanting Danish island of Bornholm, where stunning landscapes meet rich cultural traditions and unforgettable experiences await.
Vang Pier
20.3 km
Granite monument and sandy beach where Bornholm's industrial past meets modern recreation.
Domen
21.2 km
Geometric wooden dome on Allinge’s seafront, blending Baltic views, Folkemødet history and flexible cultural life in one striking, light-filled shell.
Opal Lake
22.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Opal Lake in Allinge, Bornholm, where adventure and tranquility meet in a stunning natural setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bison På Bornholm
0.6 km
Denmark's only bison sanctuary—witness Europe's wild giants in an ancient forest after 2,000 years.
Bornholms Brand Park
2.4 km
Intimate forest-fringed harness racing on Bornholm, blending island tradition, family-friendly fun and close-up action on a compact 580m trotting track.
Gamleborg
2.6 km
Snogebæk Strand delivers classic Bornholm seaside charm, with safe swimming, soft white sands, undulating dunes, and local flavors near a lively holiday village.
Ekkodalen (Indgang/Entrance)
2.6 km
Step through Bornholm’s forest edge into a dramatic green corridor of cliffs, meadows and echoing rock walls at the main entrance to Ekkodalen.
Hans Rømer Memorial Park
2.7 km
Ekkodalen—Bornholm’s iconic echo valley—seduces with dramatic cliffs, ancient legends, and lush woodlands forming Denmark’s most mythical rift valley.
Bornholms Sommerrevy
2.8 km
Denmark's most local summer revue—where island wit meets musical artistry beneath Bornholm's summer sky.
Ekkodalen
3.2 km
Bornholm’s Echo Valley: a dramatic rift of cliffs, forest and meadow where geology, folklore and gentle walking paths meet in the heart of Almindingen.
Lilleborg
3.3 km
Step into the heart of Bornholm's history at Erichsens Gård, where 19th-century interiors and a tranquil garden reveal the island’s artistic and cultural heritage.
Jægergrotten
3.3 km
A modest historic grotto and garden on Bornholm, offering a quiet glimpse of Aakirkeby’s 19th‑century leisure life amid trees, stonework and gentle calm.
Dronningestenen
3.5 km
Forest-framed viewpoint on a high Bornholm plateau, where the "Queen’s Stone" opens to sweeping vistas over southern fields and the far Baltic horizon.
Kongemindet
3.6 km
Royal memorial, forest lookout and Bornholm’s highest point in one – a granite-and-steel tower rising above Almindingen with sweeping island and Baltic views.
Rokkestenen i Almindingen
3.7 km
A quietly curious glacial boulder hidden in Almindingen Forest, Rokkestenen invites you to step off the path, brace your hands and feel ancient granite gently move.
Rytterknægten
3.7 km
Bornholm’s modest summit in Almindingen Forest, where a royal memorial tower, whispering pines and modern trail facilities meet in a quietly atmospheric hilltop clearing.
Almindingen
5.5 km
Vast reforested heart of Bornholm, where granite cliffs, echoing valleys, castle ruins and European bison meet a web of trails under a deep green canopy.
NaturBornholm
5.5 km
Interactive gateway to Bornholm’s dinosaurs, geology and Baltic nature, set right on a dramatic fault line in a striking Henning Larsen–designed centre.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Ekkodalshuset
2.6 km
Hearty Danish lunches and giant tartlets served in a cozy forest inn beside Bornholm’s echo valley, perfectly paired with walks in Almindingen.
Christianshøjkroen
2.8 km
Historic yellow forest kro on Bornholm serving refined Danish smørrebrød and Skovfrokost in a cosy cottage and garden terrace deep among the trees.
Restaurant Bolsterbjerg v/Lola Mortensen
4.5 km
Countryside Danish cooking in a leafy Bornholm garden, where classic comfort dishes meet a tranquil event‑ready setting just outside Rønne.
Restaurant Gudhjem Bakke
11.0 km
Hearty portions and classic Danish comfort food on the sunny slopes above Gudhjem’s harbour, ideal for a generous lunch or relaxed, no‑nonsense dinner.
Spektakel-bar
11.3 km
Leafy courtyard dining in central Gudhjem, where a focused menu, good drinks and only-outdoor seating create one of Bornholm’s cosiest evening hangouts.
Norresan
11.6 km
Converted smokery café with sunset views, coffee, ice cream, and unhurried harbor charm.
Kadeau Bornholm
11.9 km
Remote, refined and deeply Bornholm at heart, this seaside cottage restaurant turns island gardens, shorelines and smokehouses into an immersive New Nordic tasting journey.
Bakkarøgeriet
12.5 km
Historic smokehouse with white chimneys, signature smoked fish, and panoramic sea views on Bornholm's southern coast.
Svaneke Bryghus Restaurant
12.7 km
Historic brewery restaurant where organic craft beer and seasonal Nordic cuisine unite in rustic refinement.
Vinøst wine bar & restaurant
12.7 km
French-inspired natural wine bar on Svaneke’s cobbled square, pairing intimate candlelit ambience with a serious bottle list and refined small plates.
Restaurant Pakhuset
12.8 km
Hearty steak-and-pasta classics, local Bornholm flavours and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere inside a characterful old warehouse in central Svaneke.
Tre Tjenere Restaurant
12.9 km
Authentic Nordic cuisine and harbor views in Svaneke's most celebrated restaurant.
Restaurant Siemsens Gaard
12.9 km
Nordic cuisine in a 16th-century harbour house with Baltic Sea views and craft beer expertise.
Svaneke Røgeri
12.9 km
Traditional Bornholm fish smokehouse and casual seaside restaurant in Svaneke, combining alder-smoked seafood, hearty buffets and open-air Baltic views.
Culinarium
13.2 km
Fresh harbor seafood and German-Danish hospitality at Bornholm's working waterfront
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
My Home Furniture Ronne
4.4 km
Quality furniture and home goods at outlet prices in Bornholm's commercial heart.
Sparloppan
4.7 km
Quirky flea market, art gallery and cosy café gathered on one floor above Aakirkeby’s town square, mixing retro treasures, local creativity and relaxed Bornholm hygge.
Bornholms Valsemølle A/S
5.3 km
Working island flour mill and cozy farm shop where Bornholm grain becomes characterful flour and local delicacies in the heart of Aakirkeby.
Sæbemageriet Bornholm
6.8 km
Intimate soap workshop-boutique in Østerlars, where Bornholm’s landscapes are translated into handcrafted bars, gentle scents and cosy, small-batch island charm.
The Bornholm Farm Shop
7.6 km
Cooperative countryside farm shop near Rønne, bringing Bornholm’s meats, oils, honey, lambskins and island delicacies together in a relaxed rural setting.
Klippeøens Gårdbutik
8.6 km
Spacious Bornholm farm shop on the rocky east coast, mixing English country fashion, Italian dresses and homey gifts in a cosy countryside setting all year round.
Baltic Sea Glass
9.3 km
Renowned Bornholm glass studio and gallery where molten sand, Baltic light, and island-inspired design become elegant, hand-blown works of art.
Bornholmsk Pileflet
9.7 km
A small rural workshop in Klemensker where traditional willow weaving becomes functional art and intimate encounters with Bornholm’s craft heritage unfold.
Janne K
11.1 km
Intimate Scandinavian clothing and lifestyle boutique on Gudhjem’s main street, pairing Nordic style with a Bornholm coastal sensibility in a calm, curated space.
Lifestone
11.2 km
A cosy seaside boutique on Gudhjem’s main street, blending relaxed Scandinavian fashion with the everyday charm of Bornholm’s most dramatic harbour town.
Førder Bornholm
11.3 km
Curated fashion and gourmet finds in Gudhjem's charming harbor village.
Reflax
12.8 km
Elegant Nordic minimalism in natural fibers, where timeless design meets contemporary edge.
Art Box Bornholm
12.9 km
Compact gallery, design shop and creative supply store in Svaneke, distilling Bornholm’s coastal character into bold prints, maps, jewellery and art materials.
Karamelleriet ApS
12.9 km
Handcrafted caramels and fudge in a working factory overlooking Svaneke's harbor.
Mollys Verden
14.3 km
A cosy Bornholm interiors haven in Snogebæk, where playful Nordic design, colourful homewares and quirky gifts turn casual browsing into a gentle little adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Buddha Bar
4.7 km
Relaxed, Asian‑tinged bar on Aakirkeby’s central square, ideal for casual drinks, simple bites and unhurried people‑watching at the heart of inland Bornholm.
Dagligstuen
4.8 km
Aakirkeby's unpretentious beer hall and community gathering space on the main square.
Provianten
11.4 km
Cozy harbor-side wine bar and eatery in Gudhjem, blending thoughtful drinks, simple honest food and Bornholm’s relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Mikkeller Aarsdale
12.6 km
Seasonal seaside craft beer bar and burger spot in a former smokehouse on Bornholm’s Aarsdale harbour, pairing inventive taps with relaxed Baltic Sea views.
Madvig
12.7 km
Intimate Bornholm wine and cocktail bar in Svaneke’s old streets, pouring carefully chosen bottles and classic drinks in a warm, candlelit setting.
Søllings Bodega
12.7 km
Traditional Danish bodega in Svaneke's town square, where locals gather for games, conversation, and authentic pub culture.
The Golden Rooster
12.9 km
Authentic Danish bodega serving hearty traditional fare with harbor views in central Nexø.
Slævasted
13.2 km
Ultra-casual harbor bar in Nexø with quirky décor, cheap drinks and a cozy, lived-in atmosphere that feels more like a local living room than a polished pub.
Sørens Værtshus
14.5 km
Casual seaside pub in Snogebæk serving deep-pan stone-oven pizza, cold drinks and live summer music a short stroll from Bornholm’s sandy beaches.
Pølse baren på Campus Bornholm
14.8 km
Casual sausage bar on Campus Bornholm serving traditional Danish pølser to students and visitors.
Café Lille Per
15.6 km
Local bodega charm on Rønne’s central square, where simple drinks, easygoing vibes and everyday Bornholm life meet in one relaxed café-bar.
Den Marinerede Sild
15.6 km
A snug, Bornholm-flavoured pub on Lille Torv in central Rønne, pouring local craft beers and cocktails in a warm, intimate setting with easy island charm.
O'Malley
15.7 km
Cosy Irish pub and sports bar in central Rønne, pouring stout and whiskies, screening live games and hosting lively evenings on Bornholm’s main town square.
Krystal Bodega
15.8 km
No‑frills local pub in central Rønne, serving cold beers, bar games and late‑night Bornholm atmosphere in classic Danish bodega style.
Café 18
15.8 km
Casual bodega and cocktail bar where Rønne locals gather for coffee, conversation, and evening drinks.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
