Rø Plantage
Ancient forests, hidden fortresses, and serene lakes in Bornholm's tranquil woodland sanctuary.
Rø Plantage is a sprawling forested woodland in northern Bornholm, Denmark, featuring rolling terrain, serene lakes, and a network of well-maintained hiking trails. Originally heathland, the area was reforested in the 19th century and now offers visitors a tranquil natural escape with colorful seasonal vegetation, diverse wildlife, and the mysterious archaeological site of Borgen fortress. The plantation combines peaceful forest walks with cultural heritage exploration.
A brief summary to Rø Plantage
- Bornholm, DK
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes with good grip—the plantation trails are beautiful but uneven and can be muddy, especially after rain or during wet seasons.
- Visit in spring or autumn for the most vibrant vegetation and optimal bird watching; spring mornings offer particularly rich bird song and fresh greenery.
- Park at Rø Lake for convenient access to the main trail network and nearby attractions including the Bat Museum.
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the colorful forest scenery, especially during seasonal transitions when the landscape is most photogenic.
- Allow extra time to explore the Borgen fortress site; the recently cleared forest reveals the ancient stone walls and archaeological features that were previously hidden.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Parking
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Picnic Areas
Getting There
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Car from Gudhjem
Drive from Gudhjem town center toward Rø Plantage via local roads; the journey takes approximately 15–20 minutes depending on starting point within Gudhjem. Parking is available at Rø Lake, which serves as the main access point to the plantation trails. No entrance fee is required. Roads are well-maintained and suitable for standard vehicles year-round.
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Bicycle from Rø Village
Cycle from Rø village to Rø Plantage via local cycling routes; the journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes. Bornholm has an extensive cycling network, and this route is generally flat to gently rolling. Bicycle parking is available near Rø Lake. This is a popular and scenic way to access the plantation.
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Walking from Rø Lake Parking Area
Once parked at Rø Lake, the plantation trails begin immediately. Walking duration depends on chosen route; short walks take 30 minutes to 1 hour, while full exploration of the plantation network can occupy 3–4 hours or more. Trails are well-marked but uneven; comfortable hiking shoes are essential. No fees apply.
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Public Bus from Rønne
Regional buses serve Bornholm, though service frequency is limited compared to larger Danish cities. Check local bus schedules for routes connecting Rønne (the main town) to the Rø Plantage area; journey time is approximately 30–45 minutes depending on route and stops. Bus travel requires advance planning due to limited daily services.
Rø Plantage location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Rø Plantage
A Landscape Shaped by History and Reforestation
Rø Plantage occupies a significant portion of northern Bornholm, transforming what was once open heathland into a varied woodland landscape. The reforestation project fundamentally changed the character of central Bornholm, creating the diverse, hilly terrain visitors experience today. The plantation is transected by dramatic rift valleys and dotted with small lakes and bogs, creating a landscape of considerable natural complexity and visual interest. This transformation from barren heath to thriving forest represents one of Denmark's notable land management achievements.The Ancient Fortress Within the Forest
Embedded within Rø Plantage lies Borgen (also called Borgehoved), one of Bornholm's most significant archaeological sites. Built on a rocky plateau at the junction of northern and southern Borgdal valleys, this fortress may date back 2,500 years to the late Bronze Age, though archaeologists have not definitively established its age. The site features a distinctive 275-meter-long angled stone wall enclosing 3.2 hectares, with steep 12-meter cliffs providing natural defense on multiple sides. Three entrances and a network of preserved hollow roads suggest the fort served as a major stronghold during Iron Age and Viking times, protecting wealthy settlements from sea-based attacks. Recent forest clearing has revealed the original landscape and stone walls, making this archaeological treasure visible once again after centuries of obscurity.Trails, Lakes, and Natural Exploration
The plantation's appeal lies in its extensive network of well-maintained hiking and cycling trails that wind through colorful, inviting scenery. Rø Lake, located at the heart of the plantation, serves as a focal point for visitors and offers peaceful views across the water. The terrain varies considerably, with uneven paths that reward careful footwork and comfortable walking shoes. Spring and autumn bring particularly vibrant vegetation and abundant bird song, making these seasons ideal for nature observation and photography. The hilly topography ensures that no two sections of the plantation feel identical, encouraging exploration and discovery.Wildlife and Seasonal Character
Bornholm's position on a major bird migration route means Rø Plantage attracts diverse avian species throughout the year. The forest supports varied ecosystems within its boundaries, from wetland areas to drier woodland sections. The plantation's colorful aesthetic shifts dramatically with the seasons, with spring bringing fresh greens and wildflowers, summer offering dense canopy cover, autumn displaying rich golds and reds, and winter revealing the underlying structure of the forest. This seasonal transformation makes the plantation rewarding to visit at different times of year, each offering distinct visual and sensory experiences.Practical Access and Nearby Amenities
Parking is conveniently available near Rø Lake, providing straightforward access to the plantation's trail system. The Bat Museum, located near the lake, offers a unique cultural stop that complements nature exploration. While facilities within the plantation itself are minimal, the Rø Lake area provides basic amenities. The plantation's location in the Gudhjem area of Bornholm makes it accessible for day trips from other parts of the island, though visitors should plan for uneven terrain and bring appropriate footwear for extended exploration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Melsted Havn
6.2 km
An authentic 1884 granite harbour preserving Bornholm's fishing heritage between protective skerries.
Louisenlund
12.3 km
Over 50 ancient standing stones in a mystical woodland setting, revealing Bornholm's Neolithic ritual landscape.
Vang Pier
12.4 km
Granite monument and sandy beach where Bornholm's industrial past meets modern recreation.
Domen
12.6 km
Geometric wooden dome on Allinge’s seafront, blending Baltic views, Folkemødet history and flexible cultural life in one striking, light-filled shell.
Slemmegrav
13.0 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Slemmegrav, a hidden gem in Rønne, Denmark, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Klintebakken
13.4 km
A billion-year geological journey where ancient granite meets younger sandstone at Bornholm's most scientifically significant fault line.
Bornholms Ø-arkiv
14.8 km
Bornholm's premier archive preserving centuries of island genealogy and local history.
Den russiske bjørn
15.0 km
Explore the enchanting Den russiske bjørn in Rønne, a unique tourist attraction steeped in local culture and history, perfect for memorable experiences.
Ronne Lighthouse
15.5 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
15.6 km
Discover the enchanting Danish island of Bornholm, where stunning landscapes meet rich cultural traditions and unforgettable experiences await.
Asylcenter Rønne & Segen
15.7 km
Experience community living at Asylcenter Rønne & Segen, a unique apartment-style accommodation in beautiful Bornholm, Denmark.
Midterpilt
16.0 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.
Geografisk knudepunkt
21.4 km
Where latitude and longitude meet: Denmark's geographic heart on the Bornholm coast.
Snogebæk Havn
22.7 km
Bornholm's easternmost harbor where fishing tradition, artisan culture, and pristine beaches converge.
Bornholmertarnet
23.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at Bornholmertarnet, a unique landmark and museum in Nexø, Denmark.
Unmissable attractions to see
Spellinge Mose
2.5 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.
Rø Transmitter
2.5 km
Explore Kanonstilling G3, a rare WWII German coastal artillery battery near Nexø, Bornholm—authentic bunkers, artillery, and sweeping Baltic Sea views await history enthusiasts.
Storeborg
2.6 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.
Bornholm
3.0 km
Dramatic cliffs, dune-soft beaches and round churches meet creative harbour towns on Denmark’s sunniest Baltic island, a compact escape rich in nature and history.
Bornholms Middelaldercenter
4.1 km
Step into a re‑created medieval Bornholm of manors, mills, craftsmen and archers, where hands‑on history, island scenery and family‑friendly storytelling meet.
Rokkestenen i Rutsker Højlyng
4.4 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.
Døndalen Vandfald
4.5 km
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.
The Sanctuary Rocks
4.5 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
4.5 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.
Bornholms Kunstmuseum
4.5 km
Modern Danish architecture meets Bornholm’s coastal light at this clifftop museum, where island art, crafts and dramatic Baltic Sea landscapes come together.
Østerlars Church
4.6 km
Denmark’s largest round church, Østerlars blends 12th‑century stone fortification, vivid medieval frescoes and Viking rune stones in a single atmospheric Bornholm landmark.
Dry Oven CAVE
4.6 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.
Black Pot
4.7 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.
Helligdomsklipperne
4.7 km
Dramatic granite cliffs, sea-carved caves and centuries of pilgrimage history meet art, light and Baltic horizons at Bornholm’s atmospheric Sanctuary Cliffs.
Salene Gravplads (oldtid)
4.8 km
Discover the diverse landscapes and rich history of Slotslyngen, Bornholm's captivating natural reserve.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Bolsterbjerg v/Lola Mortensen
5.1 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
5.8 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.
Norresan
5.8 km
Converted smokery café with sunset views, coffee, ice cream, and unhurried harbor charm.
Spektakel-bar
5.9 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.
Stammershalle Badehotel
6.5 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.
Christianshøjkroen
6.9 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 Ekkodalshuset
8.1 km
Hearty Danish lunches and giant tartlets served in a cozy forest inn beside Bornholm’s echo valley, perfectly paired with walks in Almindingen.
The Ranch
9.8 km
Western-inspired group dining and celebrations in a former community hall on Bornholm, blending hearty cooking with relaxed, village-saloon atmosphere.
Nordbornholms Røgeri Butik & Restaurant
11.7 km
Bornholm's largest fish buffet on the cliffs, where smoked seafood and Baltic views define island dining.
Restaurant Margeritten
11.9 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
11.9 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
12.0 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.
Hasle Smokehouse
12.0 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.
Le Port i Vang på Bornholm
12.2 km
Clifftop gourmet dining on Bornholm’s wild northwest coast, where refined French‑Nordic cuisine meets sweeping Baltic Sea sunsets over Vang and Hammershus.
Ellas Restaurant og Konditori
13.9 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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bornholmsk Pileflet
2.7 km
A small rural workshop in Klemensker where traditional willow weaving becomes functional art and intimate encounters with Bornholm’s craft heritage unfold.
Sæbemageriet Bornholm
4.6 km
Intimate soap workshop-boutique in Østerlars, where Bornholm’s landscapes are translated into handcrafted bars, gentle scents and cosy, small-batch island charm.
Janne K
5.8 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
5.9 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
5.9 km
Curated fashion and gourmet finds in Gudhjem's charming harbor village.
Baltic Sea Glass
6.7 km
Renowned Bornholm glass studio and gallery where molten sand, Baltic light, and island-inspired design become elegant, hand-blown works of art.
The Bornholm Farm Shop
8.2 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
8.3 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.
My Home Furniture Ronne
12.4 km
Quality furniture and home goods at outlet prices in Bornholm's commercial heart.
Sparloppan
12.6 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
13.0 km
Working island flour mill and cozy farm shop where Bornholm grain becomes characterful flour and local delicacies in the heart of Aakirkeby.
Torvehal Bornholm
14.2 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
14.4 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.
Sct. Nicolai Genbrug
14.9 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.
Dansk
15.0 km
Relaxed, value-focused clothing outlet in Rønne offering practical Danish fashion and everyday basics for the whole family, with a cosy coffee corner on site.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Provianten
6.0 km
Cozy harbor-side wine bar and eatery in Gudhjem, blending thoughtful drinks, simple honest food and Bornholm’s relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Penyllan Brewery
8.3 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
8.7 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.
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.
Pilen bar & bodega
11.9 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bar in central Allinge, serving cold beers, hearty plates and laid‑back Bornholm nightlife from lunchtime until late.
Ølstauan
12.1 km
Harbourside Bornholm bar where local craft beers, hearty Danish comfort food and Baltic Sea views come together in a relaxed, grown‑up atmosphere.
Buddha Bar
12.6 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
12.6 km
Aakirkeby's unpretentious beer hall and community gathering space on the main square.
Underbar
13.3 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.
Pølse baren på Campus Bornholm
14.1 km
Casual sausage bar on Campus Bornholm serving traditional Danish pølser to students and visitors.
O'Malley
15.1 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
15.2 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.
Café Lille Per
15.2 km
Local bodega charm on Rønne’s central square, where simple drinks, easygoing vibes and everyday Bornholm life meet in one relaxed café-bar.
Krystal Bodega
15.2 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
15.3 km
Casual bodega and cocktail bar where Rønne locals gather for coffee, conversation, and evening drinks.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Doiazd7 Do Ronne
14.8 km
Compact island nightclub bringing late-night beats, colourful lights and an easygoing local crowd to the harbour town of Rønne on Bornholm.
Palæcafeen
15.0 km
No‑frills late‑night disco bar in central Rønne, mixing local bodega charm with loud music, dancing and affordable drinks on Bornholm’s main island.
Musikhuzet
15.2 km
Bornholm’s Musikhuzet in central Rønne offers an ever-changing lineup of live concerts, cultural performances, and community events in a buzzing local landmark venue.
After Dark
15.4 km
Compact weekend nightclub bringing big-city beats, DJ-driven dancing and a lively bar atmosphere to the otherwise quiet island town of Rønne on Bornholm.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Nature Escape
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Historic
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly