Spellinge Mose
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.
Spellinge Mose is a serene wetland basin tucked into a rocky rift valley in northern Bornholm, west of the village of Rø. Framed by cliffs, reed beds and willow thickets, this shallow 4-hectare lake and marsh offers an atmospheric glimpse of Bornholm’s wild heart. Old peat cuttings, Iron Age refuge ruins at Storeborg and the nearby former railway line – now one of the island’s prettiest cycling and walking paths – make it a rewarding stop for hikers, cyclists and nature lovers.
A brief summary to Spellinge Mose
- Bornholm, DK
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear waterproof or sturdy footwear; paths near the marsh can be soft, uneven and muddy, especially after rain or in the shoulder seasons.
- Bring binoculars for birdlife and for picking out the remains of Storeborg on the rocky knoll overlooking the southern end of the marsh.
- Combine a visit with a bike ride on the former railway between Rø and Klemensker or a section of the Højlyngsstien long-distance trail.
- In summer, pack water, snacks and sun protection; there is little shade directly along the old railway and few facilities on site.
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for atmospheric light and a higher chance of mist over the marsh in cooler months.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus and walking from Rønne
From Rønne, take a regional bus towards Gudhjem or Allinge that stops in or near the village of Rø; buses on these routes usually run at least a few times per day outside late evening, and a single ticket typically costs around 30–40 DKK depending on distance. From the bus stop in Rø it is roughly a 30–40 minute walk on the signposted cycle path along the former railway line to reach the vicinity of Spellinge Mose, on mostly level gravel suitable for most walkers in dry conditions.
-
Car from northern Bornholm towns
Travelling by car from nearby northern Bornholm towns such as Allinge or Gudhjem typically takes 15–25 minutes via the inland roads towards Rø. There are small parking options near the access to the former railway trail and local roads close to the marsh, but spaces are limited and can be soft or narrow, so avoid blocking farm access and be prepared for simple roadside parking. There is no entrance fee to visit Spellinge Mose, but fuel and possible parking charges in towns before or after your visit should be factored into your costs.
-
Cycling on the former railway line
Experienced cyclists can reach Spellinge Mose via the popular gravel cycle route laid out on the disused railway between Klemensker and Rø. From Rø, the ride to the marsh area is about 10–20 minutes each way at a leisurely pace, while from Klemensker it may take 30–45 minutes depending on fitness. The surface is generally good compact gravel, but after heavy rain there may be puddles and softer sections; use lights in low season when daylight is short and carry basic tools, as there are no services directly along this stretch.
Spellinge Mose location weather suitability
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Cold Weather
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Spellinge Mose
A quiet marsh in a dramatic rift valley
Spellinge Mose sits beautifully in a narrow rift valley, part of the same geological cleft that continues out to the coastal gorge of Døndalen and further southwest towards the rocky defile of Kløven. Steep rock walls, patches of forest and open heathland frame a low-lying wetland, giving this small area a surprisingly dramatic setting for such a tranquil place. The marsh itself covers around four hectares, with water rarely deeper than a couple of metres. Broad swathes of reeds and willow scrub fringe the open water, creating a dense, almost impenetrable green belt in summer. From the edges, you look across a mosaic of shallow pools, tussocky hummocks and mirror-like channels where light and sky are reflected between the reed stems.Shaped by peat, war and conservation
Although it appears timeless, Spellinge Mose’s present-day look is the result of intensive peat cutting, especially during the two World Wars when peat was an important fuel. The shallow basins and scattered ponds you see today are the scars left behind from those excavations, gradually filling with water, reeds and bog plants. What was once a utilitarian landscape has since become a protected nature area, part of the wider Rutsker Højlyng conservation zone. Here, grazing and careful management maintain a varied mosaic of wetland, heath and woodland. The area offers an instructive snapshot of how human use and later protection can together create a rich habitat for birds, amphibians and wetland flora.Iron Age stronghold above the reeds
At the southern end of the marsh, a rocky knoll holds the remains of Storeborg, an Iron Age refuge fort also known as Grønneborg. Perched above the valley, it once offered a defensible lookout over the surrounding highland and wetland. Although part of the rock was blasted away in the early 1900s when a railway was constructed through the valley, the site still preserves traces of walls and ramparts. Storeborg is among the older legally protected heritage sites on Bornholm, safeguarded since the 19th century. Clambering up to the knoll rewards you with fine views over the marsh, the rift valley and the surrounding Rutsker Højlyng – a strong sense of the strategic value this vantage point once held.Trails, bikes and Bornholm’s wild corridor
Running through the valley is the former railway line between Klemensker and Rø, now a beloved cycle and walking route regarded as one of Bornholm’s most scenic. The even gravel surface and gentle gradients make it accessible for a wide range of visitors, while side paths lead closer to the water’s edge and into the surrounding heath. Spellinge Mose also lies close to the long-distance Højlyngsstien trail, which crosses Bornholm from Hammerknuden in the north to Årsdale on the eastern coast. Hikers can use the marsh as a quiet pause along a multi-day trek, linking it with wild heather uplands, forests and rocky valleys. Shorter local circuits combine the marsh with Kløven and the wider Rutsker Højlyng landscape for a compact but varied outing.Seasonal moods and subtle wildlife
The experience of Spellinge Mose changes markedly with the seasons. On cool autumn mornings, mist often rises from the water, creating the classic “witch’s brew” effect over the reeds. Spring brings birdsong and fresh green growth, while summer is dominated by the rustle of reeds and the hum of insects. In winter, thin ice can pattern the shallow pools, and the bare rock walls of the valley feel even more prominent. Botanically, the marsh belongs to the family of highland bogs once more widespread in this part of Bornholm, with specialist wetland plants tucked among the hummocks and in the clearer pools. You are unlikely to encounter dramatic large mammals, but patient observers may spot dragonflies, frogs, waterfowl and small woodland birds that thrive in this mosaic of wet and dry habitats.A peaceful pause between island highlights
Despite its modest size, Spellinge Mose works well as a contemplative stop amid a busy Bornholm itinerary. It offers a calm, low-key counterpoint to the island’s coastal cliffs and beach towns, and its blend of geology, cultural history and nature makes it more than just a pretty wetland. Whether you arrive by bike along the old railway, on foot from Rø, or as part of a longer hike along Højlyngsstien, the marsh invites you to slow your pace. Spend a little time simply listening to the reeds, watching the play of light on the water and imagining the long arc from Iron Age stronghold and peat cutters to today’s protected landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Melsted Havn
7.4 km
An authentic 1884 granite harbour preserving Bornholm's fishing heritage between protective skerries.
Vang Pier
10.0 km
Granite monument and sandy beach where Bornholm's industrial past meets modern recreation.
Domen
10.1 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.
Louisenlund
14.6 km
Over 50 ancient standing stones in a mystical woodland setting, revealing Bornholm's Neolithic ritual landscape.
Bornholms Ø-arkiv
14.9 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.
Klintebakken
15.5 km
A billion-year geological journey where ancient granite meets younger sandstone at Bornholm's most scientifically significant fault line.
Ronne Lighthouse
15.6 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
15.8 km
Experience community living at Asylcenter Rønne & Segen, a unique apartment-style accommodation in beautiful Bornholm, Denmark.
Midterpilt
18.5 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
23.8 km
Where latitude and longitude meet: Denmark's geographic heart on the Bornholm coast.
Big Tower
24.3 km
A 17th-century sea fortress tower reborn as a lighthouse and cultural beacon, with sweeping Baltic views from Denmark’s remote eastern outpost.
Snogebæk Havn
25.2 km
Bornholm's easternmost harbor where fishing tradition, artisan culture, and pristine beaches converge.
Unmissable attractions to see
Storeborg
0.0 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.
Rokkestenen i Rutsker Højlyng
1.9 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.
Rø Plantage
2.5 km
Ancient forests, hidden fortresses, and serene lakes in Bornholm's tranquil woodland sanctuary.
Døndalen Vandfald
2.7 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.
Bornholms Kunstmuseum
3.2 km
Modern Danish architecture meets Bornholm’s coastal light at this clifftop museum, where island art, crafts and dramatic Baltic Sea landscapes come together.
Døndalen
3.2 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.
The Sanctuary Rocks
3.2 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
3.2 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
3.4 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
3.4 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
3.8 km
Dramatic granite cliffs, sea-carved caves and centuries of pilgrimage history meet art, light and Baltic horizons at Bornholm’s atmospheric Sanctuary Cliffs.
Bornholm
4.4 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.
Rø Transmitter
4.6 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.
Præstemosen shelter, Klemensker
5.2 km
Free bog-side shelter in Bornholm's moraine landscape—rustic Nordic wilderness for one night.
Salene Gravplads (oldtid)
5.4 km
Discover the diverse landscapes and rich history of Slotslyngen, Bornholm's captivating natural reserve.
Essential places to dine
Stammershalle Badehotel
4.4 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
6.5 km
Converted smokery café with sunset views, coffee, ice cream, and unhurried harbor charm.
Restaurant Gudhjem Bakke
6.7 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
6.8 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 Bolsterbjerg v/Lola Mortensen
7.2 km
Countryside Danish cooking in a leafy Bornholm garden, where classic comfort dishes meet a tranquil event‑ready setting just outside Rønne.
The Ranch
7.7 km
Western-inspired group dining and celebrations in a former community hall on Bornholm, blending hearty cooking with relaxed, village-saloon atmosphere.
Christianshøjkroen
9.1 km
Historic yellow forest kro on Bornholm serving refined Danish smørrebrød and Skovfrokost in a cosy cottage and garden terrace deep among the trees.
Nordbornholms Røgeri Butik & Restaurant
9.3 km
Bornholm's largest fish buffet on the cliffs, where smoked seafood and Baltic views define island dining.
Restaurant Margeritten
9.4 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
9.5 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
9.5 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.
Le Port i Vang på Bornholm
9.8 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 Ekkodalshuset
10.3 km
Hearty Danish lunches and giant tartlets served in a cozy forest inn beside Bornholm’s echo valley, perfectly paired with walks in Almindingen.
Hasle Smokehouse
10.6 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.
Ellas Restaurant og Konditori
11.4 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
2.5 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
6.7 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
6.7 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
6.7 km
Curated fashion and gourmet finds in Gudhjem's charming harbor village.
Sæbemageriet Bornholm
6.9 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
8.4 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
9.3 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
10.3 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.
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.
My Home Furniture Ronne
14.6 km
Quality furniture and home goods at outlet prices in Bornholm's commercial heart.
Sparloppan
14.8 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
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.
People-Fashion.dk
15.0 km
Intimate Scandinavian womenswear boutique in central Rønne, blending slow fashion, natural fabrics and easy Nordic style with Bornholm’s relaxed island atmosphere.
Bornholms Valsemølle A/S
15.1 km
Working island flour mill and cozy farm shop where Bornholm grain becomes characterful flour and local delicacies in the heart of Aakirkeby.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Penyllan Brewery
5.9 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
6.2 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
6.8 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
9.4 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bar in central Allinge, serving cold beers, hearty plates and laid‑back Bornholm nightlife from lunchtime until late.
Ølstauan
9.7 km
Harbourside Bornholm bar where local craft beers, hearty Danish comfort food and Baltic Sea views come together in a relaxed, grown‑up atmosphere.
Ølhuzed ApS
10.4 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.
Underbar
10.9 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
14.2 km
Casual sausage bar on Campus Bornholm serving traditional Danish pølser to students and visitors.
Buddha Bar
14.8 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
14.8 km
Aakirkeby's unpretentious beer hall and community gathering space on the main square.
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
15.3 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
14.9 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
- Zen
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Low Impact
- Wildlife Habitat
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
