Døndalen Waterfall (Døndalsfaldet), Bornholm
Lush rift valley, changing 20 m waterfall and sweeping Baltic views combine in one of Bornholm’s most atmospheric forest walks just west of Gudhjem.
Hidden in a broad, rock-walled ravine just west of Gudhjem, Døndalen shelters one of Denmark’s highest waterfalls, plunging around 20 m through a lush forest cleft. Easy woodland paths lead you along Døndaleåen stream to the falls, with steeper side trails climbing to the Amtmandsstenen viewpoint for sweeping views over treetops, the Baltic Sea and, on clear days, Christiansø. Protected since 1975 and partly left as wild forest, the valley is a rewarding nature escape in any season, from spring wildflowers and birdsong to autumn colours and winter meltwater.
A brief summary to Døndalen Vandfald
- Gudhjem, 3760, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 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
- For the most impressive waterfall, aim for late winter, early spring or after heavy autumn rain, when Døndaleåen carries enough water to roar over the rocks.
- Wear sturdy shoes with good grip; main paths are easy, but side trails to Amtmandsstenen and beyond the falls can be muddy, rooty and slippery when wet.
- If you want views from Amtmandsstenen, tackle the steep stairs early in your visit, before legs are tired from longer walking deeper into the valley.
- In spring, bring a camera for carpets of anemones and wild garlic; in summer, consider insect repellent, as the sheltered valley can attract mosquitoes.
- Allow extra time if visiting with small children or using a stroller; the broad lower path is manageable, but turning back before the rougher sections is sensible.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car from Gudhjem
From central Gudhjem, driving to the main Døndalen parking area near Søndre Strandvej typically takes about 5–10 minutes. The route follows the coastal road and is straightforward, with signposting to the valley. Parking at the main lot is free, but spaces can fill in peak summer hours, so early morning or late afternoon arrivals usually give the best chance of finding a spot.
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Local bus along the north coast
Bornholm’s coastal bus line between Gudhjem and Allinge has stops close to the Døndalen access road, with a walk of roughly 10–20 minutes along the roadside and forest edge to reach the main trailhead. The ride from Gudhjem generally takes 10–15 minutes and tickets are typically in the range of 25–40 DKK one way, depending on distance and ticket type. Services run several times a day but are less frequent outside the summer season, so checking the timetable in advance is important.
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Cycling the coastal route
Døndalen lies close to Bornholm’s popular cycle route along the north coast, and the ride from Gudhjem usually takes about 20–30 minutes at an easy pace. The route includes some hills and short, steeper stretches typical of the rocky coastline, so basic cycling fitness and good brakes are important. Bicycle parking is informal at the entrance area; bringing a lock is recommended, and lighting is useful if you plan to return in the evening.
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Walking from nearby coastal accommodations
If you are staying at accommodation along the coastal stretch between Gudhjem and Tejn, reaching Døndalen on foot can be an option, with walks typically ranging from 45 to 90 minutes depending on starting point. Expect a mix of quiet roads, coastal views and gentle elevation changes as you move between sea level and the slightly higher inland terrain. Surfaces are mostly paved or firm, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advisable, especially outside summer.
Døndalen Vandfald location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
- Snow
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Døndalen Vandfald
A broad Bornholm gorge carved in ancient rock
Døndalen is a wide rift valley west of Gudhjem, cut into Bornholm’s ancient granite and unlike most of the island’s narrow clefts. Here a block of bedrock has sunk to form a broad depression, creating a spacious green corridor that feels more like a leafy amphitheatre than a tight ravine. Steep rock walls rise on the sides, softened by moss, ferns and tall deciduous trees that knit together into a cool canopy in summer. At the valley floor, Døndaleåen winds gently between stones and tree roots, sometimes a quiet stream, sometimes a churning ribbon of meltwater. The contrast between the soft forest floor and abrupt rock faces is striking, and as you follow the water inwards the valley gradually feels more secluded, the road noise replaced by birds and the low murmur of running water.Denmark’s waterfall with a changing personality
At the heart of the valley, the stream suddenly drops around 20 m over a series of rock ledges, forming Døndalsfaldet, one of Denmark’s highest waterfalls. In late winter and early spring, when snowmelt and rain swell the stream, water hammers over the algae-covered rock, sometimes flinging fine spray that catches the light in brief rainbows. After wet autumn spells, the fall can also be dramatic, framed by copper and gold foliage. In dry summers, the waterfall often shrinks to thin silver threads or almost disappears, revealing the sculpted rock terraces beneath. That shifting character is part of its appeal: the same spot can feel wild and thunderous at one time of year, meditative and delicate at another. Locally, the roaring sound during high water has been linked to the name of the valley, which hints at a booming, drumming noise.Forest walks from gentle strolls to steeper scrambles
Visiting Døndalen is first and foremost a walking experience. A broad, well-made forest path follows the stream from the main entrance for roughly a kilometre each way, making the out-and-back walk to the waterfall an easy hour-long outing. This route is suitable for most walkers and, with some care, for smaller strollers, offering a soft introduction to Bornholm’s rocky landscapes without demanding terrain. Beyond the main fall, narrower trails continue further into the valley towards Røvejen, where the ground becomes muddier, roots protrude and small rises and dips add effort. This longer loop, around 4 km in total, rewards you with a stronger sense of wild forest, where parts of the valley are left as unmanaged woodland, fallen trunks and deadwood creating habitat for insects, fungi and birds.Amtmandsstenen and views to the Baltic horizon
High on the northwestern side of the valley a 20 m rock wall culminates at the viewpoint known as Amtmandsstenen. A steep stairway climbs from near the base of the waterfall up through the trees to this rocky outcrop. The ascent is short but vigorous, especially in wet weather when steps can be slippery, yet the payoff is memorable. From the top, you look out across a sea of treetops that fill the valley, with the flat, blue expanse of the Baltic Sea stretching beyond the forest edge. On clear days, the tiny island group of Christiansø pricks the horizon. This elevated perspective reveals the true breadth of Døndalen compared with other Bornholm ravines and underlines how the sunk bedrock has created a wide, bowl-like landscape rather than a tight crack in the rock.Seasonal scents, sounds and protected nature
Døndalen has been protected since the mid-1970s and is now owned by a conservation foundation, with around a third of its 37 hectares set aside as untouched forest. That status underpins its rich mixture of flora and fauna. In early spring, before the canopy fully closes, the forest floor can be carpeted in white anemones, while wild garlic releases a strong, unmistakable scent along the path and nightingales sing from the thickets. In summer, the valley offers a naturally cool refuge, the air damp and fragrant, the stream providing a constant soundtrack. Autumn brings rustling leaves and a palette of reds and browns, and in winter the scene shifts again as bare branches reveal more of the rock formations. Each season changes not just the look of the waterfall but the overall mood of the valley, making Døndalen a place that rewards repeat visits at different times of year.A straightforward escape close to culture
Despite its sense of seclusion, Døndalen lies very close to Bornholm’s north coast and sits only a short distance from other cultural and natural highlights, including clifftop viewpoints and the island’s art museum. This makes it easy to combine a forest walk here with time by the sea or indoor visits on the same day. With basic facilities at the main entrance and well-marked paths, it is a simple yet atmospheric nature stop, inviting both casual walkers and keen hikers to explore a classic Bornholm landscape shaped by ancient geology and protected for the future.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Melsted Havn
6.7 km
An authentic 1884 granite harbour preserving Bornholm's fishing heritage between protective skerries.
Domen
8.5 km
Geometric wooden dome on Allinge’s seafront, blending Baltic views, Folkemødet history and flexible cultural life in one striking, light-filled shell.
Vang Pier
9.9 km
Granite monument and sandy beach where Bornholm's industrial past meets modern recreation.
Louisenlund
15.2 km
Over 50 ancient standing stones in a mystical woodland setting, revealing Bornholm's Neolithic ritual landscape.
Slemmegrav
15.5 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Slemmegrav, a hidden gem in Rønne, Denmark, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Bornholms Ø-arkiv
17.4 km
Bornholm's premier archive preserving centuries of island genealogy and local history.
Den russiske bjørn
17.5 km
Explore the enchanting Den russiske bjørn in Rønne, a unique tourist attraction steeped in local culture and history, perfect for memorable experiences.
Klintebakken
17.8 km
A billion-year geological journey where ancient granite meets younger sandstone at Bornholm's most scientifically significant fault line.
Ronne Lighthouse
18.0 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
18.1 km
Discover the enchanting Danish island of Bornholm, where stunning landscapes meet rich cultural traditions and unforgettable experiences await.
Asylcenter Rønne & Segen
18.3 km
Experience community living at Asylcenter Rønne & Segen, a unique apartment-style accommodation in beautiful Bornholm, Denmark.
Midterpilt
19.6 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.
Udforsk Bornholm
23.9 km
Explore Udforsk Bornholm, a captivating tourist attraction in Nexø, where history and culture of the island come alive through engaging exhibits.
Geografisk knudepunkt
25.9 km
Where latitude and longitude meet: Denmark's geographic heart on the Bornholm coast.
Snogebæk Havn
26.6 km
Bornholm's easternmost harbor where fishing tradition, artisan culture, and pristine beaches converge.
Unmissable attractions to see
Døndalen
0.5 km
Wild rift valley, towering trees and Denmark’s highest waterfall come together in this quietly dramatic forest walk on Bornholm’s rugged north coast.
Bornholms Kunstmuseum
0.8 km
Modern Danish architecture meets Bornholm’s coastal light at this clifftop museum, where island art, crafts and dramatic Baltic Sea landscapes come together.
The Sanctuary Rocks
1.0 km
Dramatic granite sea cliffs, myth-tinged caves and coastal paths above the Baltic, making Helligdomsklipperne one of Bornholm’s most unforgettable natural landmarks.
Våde Ovn
1.0 km
A deep, wave-filled sea cave carved into Bornholm’s Sanctuary Cliffs, where granite walls, echoing surf and shifting light reveal the drama of the Baltic coast.
Black Pot
1.1 km
A narrow, echoing sea cave cut deep into Bornholm’s Sanctuary Cliffs, where granite walls, crashing Baltic waves and island legends meet in cool, cavernous darkness.
Dry Oven CAVE
1.2 km
A narrow sea cave tucked into Bornholm’s dramatic Sanctuary Cliffs, where ancient granite, crashing Baltic waves and old legends meet in a dark, echoing chamber.
Helligdomsklipperne
1.7 km
Dramatic granite cliffs, sea-carved caves and centuries of pilgrimage history meet art, light and Baltic horizons at Bornholm’s atmospheric Sanctuary Cliffs.
Rokkestenen i Rutsker Højlyng
2.3 km
A 20‑ton rocking boulder hidden in Rutsker Højlyng’s heathland, where Ice Age geology, quiet woodland and Bornholm folklore come together in a simple, wild setting.
Spellinge Mose
2.7 km
Quiet Bornholm wetland in a rocky rift valley, where Iron Age ruins, an old railway trail and protected bog habitats meet in a serene pocket of wild nature.
Storeborg
2.7 km
Explore the dramatic rift valley of Ekkodalen on Bornholm—where echoing cliffs, lush trails, and legendary stories meet in a uniquely Danish natural setting.
Rø Plantage
4.5 km
Ancient forests, hidden fortresses, and serene lakes in Bornholm's tranquil woodland sanctuary.
Salene Gravplads (oldtid)
4.6 km
Discover the diverse landscapes and rich history of Slotslyngen, Bornholm's captivating natural reserve.
Hestestenene
4.9 km
Four ancient standing stones on a Bornholm cliff-top, where sea views, coastal wind and enduring legends of horses and sacrifice animate a quiet historic stop.
Røverborgen
5.1 km
A windswept granite outcrop on Gudhjem’s edge, Røverborgen pairs Baltic sea views with a playful “Robbers’ Castle” legend in a compact, atmospheric stop.
Helligdomsklipperne - Vandretur Start
5.3 km
Unassuming harbour rocks at Nørresand mark the start of a classic Bornholm coastal hike from Gudhjem to the dramatic Sanctuary Cliffs of Helligdomsklipperne.
Essential places to dine
Stammershalle Badehotel
2.1 km
Historic 1911 seaside bathing hotel on Bornholm’s wild north coast, pairing Baltic Sea panoramas and rocky swims with refined Nordic dining and quiet coastal charm.
Norresan
5.5 km
Converted smokery café with sunset views, coffee, ice cream, and unhurried harbor charm.
Spektakel-bar
5.8 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.
Restaurant Gudhjem Bakke
5.9 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.
Nordbornholms Røgeri Butik & Restaurant
7.6 km
Bornholm's largest fish buffet on the cliffs, where smoked seafood and Baltic views define island dining.
Restaurant Margeritten
7.8 km
Casual Danish family restaurant on Allinge’s church square, serving generous classics, pizzas and a salad bar in relaxed, central surroundings.
Restaurant Det Gamle Posthus,Allinge
7.8 km
Hearty Bornholm cooking in a former post office, where generous plates, local ingredients and a cosy courtyard turn Allinge’s everyday letters into lingering meals.
Terrassen
7.9 km
Wine, cocktails and Nordic comfort food on a wide harbour-view deck in historic Høiers Gaard, where Allinge’s sea air, granite coast and easygoing buzz meet.
The Ranch
8.6 km
Western-inspired group dining and celebrations in a former community hall on Bornholm, blending hearty cooking with relaxed, village-saloon atmosphere.
Le Port i Vang på Bornholm
9.5 km
Clifftop gourmet dining on Bornholm’s wild northwest coast, where refined French‑Nordic cuisine meets sweeping Baltic Sea sunsets over Vang and Hammershus.
Restaurant Bolsterbjerg v/Lola Mortensen
9.6 km
Countryside Danish cooking in a leafy Bornholm garden, where classic comfort dishes meet a tranquil event‑ready setting just outside Rønne.
Ellas Restaurant og Konditori
9.9 km
Cozy Danish restaurant and konditori in seaside Allinge, pairing nostalgic “mormor” charm with hearty comfort dishes, cakes and coffee just steps from Bornholm’s harbor.
Christianshøjkroen
11.3 km
Historic yellow forest kro on Bornholm serving refined Danish smørrebrød and Skovfrokost in a cosy cottage and garden terrace deep among the trees.
Hasle Smokehouse
12.3 km
Historic alderwood smokehouses on Bornholm’s west coast, where traditional smoked fish, casual dining and Baltic Sea views meet in one atmospheric seaside stop.
Restaurant Ekkodalshuset
12.6 km
Hearty Danish lunches and giant tartlets served in a cozy forest inn beside Bornholm’s echo valley, perfectly paired with walks in Almindingen.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bornholmsk Pileflet
5.2 km
A small rural workshop in Klemensker where traditional willow weaving becomes functional art and intimate encounters with Bornholm’s craft heritage unfold.
Førder Bornholm
5.8 km
Curated fashion and gourmet finds in Gudhjem's charming harbor village.
Lifestone
5.8 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.
Janne K
5.9 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.
Sæbemageriet Bornholm
7.7 km
Intimate soap workshop-boutique in Østerlars, where Bornholm’s landscapes are translated into handcrafted bars, gentle scents and cosy, small-batch island charm.
Baltic Sea Glass
8.2 km
Renowned Bornholm glass studio and gallery where molten sand, Baltic light, and island-inspired design become elegant, hand-blown works of art.
Klippeøens Gårdbutik
10.4 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.
The Bornholm Farm Shop
12.0 km
Cooperative countryside farm shop near Rønne, bringing Bornholm’s meats, oils, honey, lambskins and island delicacies together in a relaxed rural setting.
Torvehal Bornholm
16.6 km
Compact Bornholm food hall and roastery café in Rønne, bringing local flavours, natural groceries and island coffee culture together under one relaxed roof.
Sport Dres Bornholm v/Jesper Schiøtt
16.8 km
Compact but expertly stocked fishing specialist in central Rønne, where Bornholm’s anglers gear up, swap tips and prepare for time on the island’s lakes and coasts.
My Home Furniture Ronne
16.9 km
Quality furniture and home goods at outlet prices in Bornholm's commercial heart.
Sparloppan
17.1 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.
Sct. Nicolai Genbrug
17.4 km
Volunteer-run thrift shop in central Rønne, where low-priced second-hand clothing and curios support local church social work and sustainable shopping on Bornholm.
Bornholms Valsemølle A/S
17.5 km
Working island flour mill and cozy farm shop where Bornholm grain becomes characterful flour and local delicacies in the heart of Aakirkeby.
People-Fashion.dk
17.5 km
Intimate Scandinavian womenswear boutique in central Rønne, blending slow fashion, natural fabrics and easy Nordic style with Bornholm’s relaxed island atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Penyllan Brewery
4.2 km
Harbourfront craft brewery on Bornholm’s north coast, blending barrel-aged beer, Nordic flavours and Baltic sea views in a relaxed, intimate taproom.
Cabaret Bornholm
5.6 km
Intimate cocktail and tapas bar bringing a touch of cabaret flair and late‑night atmosphere to the quiet coastal town of Allinge on Bornholm.
Provianten
5.8 km
Cozy harbor-side wine bar and eatery in Gudhjem, blending thoughtful drinks, simple honest food and Bornholm’s relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Pilen bar & bodega
7.8 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bar in central Allinge, serving cold beers, hearty plates and laid‑back Bornholm nightlife from lunchtime until late.
Ølstauan
8.1 km
Harbourside Bornholm bar where local craft beers, hearty Danish comfort food and Baltic Sea views come together in a relaxed, grown‑up atmosphere.
Underbar
9.3 km
Intimate cliffside bar beneath Hotel Nordlandet, where Nordic cocktails, candlelight and big Baltic horizons turn Bornholm’s wild north coast into your living room.
Ølhuzed ApS
11.9 km
Cosy craft beer bar in the heart of Hasle, pouring Bornholm brews and European favourites with simple tapas, nachos and an easygoing neighbourhood vibe.
Pølse baren på Campus Bornholm
16.7 km
Casual sausage bar on Campus Bornholm serving traditional Danish pølser to students and visitors.
Buddha Bar
17.1 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
17.1 km
Aakirkeby's unpretentious beer hall and community gathering space on the main square.
O'Malley
17.6 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.
Den Marinerede Sild
17.7 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.
Krystal Bodega
17.7 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
17.7 km
Casual bodega and cocktail bar where Rønne locals gather for coffee, conversation, and evening drinks.
Café Lille Per
17.7 km
Local bodega charm on Rønne’s central square, where simple drinks, easygoing vibes and everyday Bornholm life meet in one relaxed café-bar.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Zen
- Scenic
- Adventurous
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Low Impact
- 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
