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Ekkodalen: Bornholm's Enigmatic Echo Valley

Ekkodalen is Bornholm’s legendary rift valley, where sheer cliffs, myth-rich woodlands, and curious echoes create a unique Danish nature experience year-round.

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Ekkodalen, Denmark’s legendary ‘Echo Valley’, is Bornholm’s longest rift valley, known for its dramatic cliffs, lush green forest, and curious natural acoustics. More than a quirky echo spot, Ekkodalen invites visitors to wander amid steep rock walls, discover springs and streams, and step into centuries of local myth. Free to access and open year-round, it’s a beloved natural haven combining geological wonder and folkloric charm.

A brief summary to Rytterknægten

  • Aakirkeby, DK

Local tips

  • The famous echo is strongest near the stone wall by the marked ‘Ekkostenen’—try calling out from here for best results.
  • Early mornings or late afternoons offer the quietest experience, ideal for birdwatching and photography.
  • Wear sturdy footwear, as trails can be muddy after rain and some paths are uneven with exposed tree roots.
  • Pack a picnic: several scenic spots and benches along the valley provide perfect settings for an outdoor lunch.
  • In spring, look out for wild garlic carpeting the forest floor—its scent is unmistakable.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Buses from Rønne’s central station head toward the island’s green interior, stopping at the village hub near Almindingen Forest. From there, it’s a gentle stroll along woodland edges, with Ekkodalen’s cliffs gradually appearing beyond the trees. A typical single fare within Bornholm is around 24-30 DKK. Schedules are frequent in summer, but may be more limited on weekends or off-season.

  • Driving

    From the island’s main town, driving toward Bornholm’s lush forest region leads to well-marked signs for Almindingen. Ekkodalen’s parking lot is set just at the forest’s edge, offering easy access to main trails. Parking is generally free, but spaces fill quickly in peak summer—arriving before midday improves your chances.

  • Cycling

    Bornholm’s dedicated cycle paths make reaching Ekkodalen an enjoyable countryside ride. Approaching Almindingen Forest, look for valley viewpoint markers that signal the approach to the echo area. Expect a leisurely ride of 30–45 minutes from central Rønne, with bike rental available in main towns for roughly 80–130 DKK per day.

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Discover more about Rytterknægten

Stretching for nearly 12 kilometers through the heart of Bornholm, Ekkodalen is much more than just a geological curiosity—it is a tapestry of natural beauty, folklore, and subtle wonders. The valley was carved during the last Ice Age, shaping vertical cliffs that rise abruptly from the forest floor, shrouded in wildflowers and scattered oaks. The distinctive acoustics here lend the valley its name: a shouted greeting rebounds playfully against the rocky walls, but as many visitors discover, the echo is just the start of Ekkodalen’s allure. Winding trails take you from open glades into dense woods, past the ancient “Holy Spring” that was once famed for healing properties and through scenic picnic spots used by locals and travelers alike. Towering above is the Gamlebjerg cliff, from which panoramic views of the Bornholm countryside stretch out, making the climb worthwhile for those seeking the best photograph. Ekkodalen holds an important place in Bornholm’s cultural imagination, referenced in songs and stories as the setting for everything from epic duels to woodland encounters. It is easy to lose yourself in its quiet corners, listening for the fabled echoes or following signs pointing the curious to more hidden stretches of the ravine. The valley is accessible in all seasons, adorned with vibrant wild garlic in spring and cloaked in golden beech leaves by autumn. Ekkodalen is not only Denmark’s longest rift valley but remains one of its most atmospheric, bridging prehistory, local tradition, and serene natural escape.

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