Stavehøl Waterfall and Kobbeå Gorge
Bornholm’s Kobbeå river plunges in a nearly seven‑metre drop through a wooded gorge at Stavehøl, blending rugged rock, forest calm and subtle traces of railway history.
Tucked into the lush Kobbeådalen gorge just south of Gudhjem, Stavehøl Waterfall is one of Denmark’s most striking cascades. Here the Kobbeå river squeezes through a rocky cleft before plunging in a nearly seven‑metre unbroken drop between steep, forested slopes. Wooden bridges, an old railway viaduct and spring carpets of wildflowers add drama to this compact but characterful corner of Bornholm’s nature, perfect for a short hike, photos and a quiet pause by the rushing water.
A brief summary to Stavehøl vandfald ved Kobbeå
- Kobbevej 1, Gudhjem, 3760, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
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
- Wear sturdy shoes with good grip; the paths and wooden bridges around the gorge can be muddy, rooty and slippery, especially after rain or in early spring.
- Aim for spring or after wet weather if you want the most powerful waterfall; in dry summer periods the flow is gentler, though the forest is beautifully green.
- Allow time to explore both the river level near the fall and the old railway viaduct above for contrasting perspectives and varied photo opportunities.
- Bring water and snacks; this is a natural area without cafés on site, and the peaceful setting is ideal for a simple picnic away from the road.
- If visiting with children, keep a close eye near steep slopes and fast‑flowing water, and agree clear boundaries around the riverbanks and bridges.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
-
Car from Gudhjem
From central Gudhjem the drive to the Stavehøl area typically takes 5–10 minutes via local country roads. Parking is in a small forest car park from which a short walk on forest paths leads to the gorge. There is no fee for the site itself; expect only normal fuel costs. The final approach is on narrow roads and spaces are limited in high season, so arriving earlier in the day gives the best chance of finding a spot.
-
Car from Rønne
Driving from Rønne across Bornholm to the Stavehøl area usually takes around 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic and stops in village centres. The route uses the island’s main roads before continuing on smaller lanes towards the Kobbeå valley. Access and parking at the forest edge are free, but there are no services at the trailhead, so plan restrooms and fuel in town beforehand.
-
Bus and walking from Gudhjem region
Regional buses connect Rønne with Gudhjem in about 40–50 minutes for roughly 30–60 DKK one way, depending on ticket type. From Gudhjem, a local stop near the Kobbeå valley allows you to continue on foot. Expect a 30–45 minute walk on countryside lanes and forest paths with some uneven terrain; this option is best for reasonably fit visitors comfortable walking on natural surfaces.
-
Cycling from nearby villages
Bornholm has a well‑developed network of cycle routes, and many visitors reach the Kobbeådalen and Stavehøl area by bike from Gudhjem, Svaneke or Østerlars in 20–45 minutes. Some stretches include hills and gravel or forest tracks, so a geared bicycle is recommended. There is no charge for access and you can leave bikes at the forest edge before continuing on foot into the gorge.
Stavehøl vandfald ved Kobbeå location weather suitability
-
Clear Skies
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Cold Weather
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Stavehøl vandfald ved Kobbeå
A dramatic waterfall in a narrow Bornholm ravine
Stavehøl Waterfall sits in the heart of Kobbeådalen, a narrow fissure valley where the Kobbeå river has carved its way through hard rock on its route to the Baltic Sea. The water gathers pace in a rocky channel before dropping in a nearly seven‑metre unbroken fall, often described as Denmark’s highest continuous waterfall. What it lacks in size by international standards, it makes up for in drama, framed by steep slopes and dense woodland. The cascade has a compact, almost intimate feel. You hear the low roar of water before you see it, then it suddenly appears between trees, tumbling over dark, layered rock. In wetter months the stream is full and energetic; in drier spells it becomes a more delicate curtain, but it rarely falls silent thanks to the valley’s steady flow.Layers of rock, colour and local storytelling
Look closely at the cliff face and you see the geology that shapes Bornholm: bands of schist and other ancient rocks, stained in places with subtle rusty tones. In earlier decades the area was once nicknamed the “red waterfall” when work on a nearby road exposed pyrite‑rich layers, tinting the water and stones an intense ochre for years. Today the stream runs clear again, but the story lingers as part of the site’s character. Even the name carries meaning. A “høl” is a deep pool scoured out below a fall, and at the base of Stavehøl the river collects in such a hollow, swirling before continuing downstream. Local explanations link the “stave” element to wooden markers once used in the landscape around Østerlars Church, tying this compact natural scene to wider cultural and spiritual threads on the island.The old railway viaduct above the gorge
High above the waterfall, a former railway viaduct spans the valley. Built in the early 20th century for the line that once connected Gudhjem with the rest of the island, it has long since lost its trains, but not its function. Today it carries a recreational trail, used by cyclists and walkers crossing the gorge with views into the treetops and down to the water far below. From below, the arches of the viaduct create a striking man‑made frame over an otherwise wild scene. Moss and creepers soften its stone, and from certain angles the bridge, the falling water and the surrounding forest come together into a single, photogenic composition that hints at how people and landscape have interacted here over time.A changing scene through the seasons
Stavehøl is very much a year‑round destination, with each season offering a different mood. In early spring the slopes around the gorge can be carpeted with anemones and other flowers, while snowmelt and rain swell the river, making the waterfall particularly lively. In summer the valley becomes a cool, green corridor, its shade and spray offering a welcome contrast to sun‑baked coastal rocks elsewhere on Bornholm. Autumn brings a blaze of golden and copper leaves reflected in the dark pool at the base of the fall, especially atmospheric after periods of rain when the Kobbeå runs high. Even in winter, when bare branches outline the steep sides of the ravine, the fall remains active, occasionally edged with ice, giving the place a raw, sculptural beauty.Experiencing the paths, bridges and forest calm
Wooden bridges and narrow paths weave along the river, letting you experience the gorge from different levels. One moment you are almost at water height, watching foam swirl around boulders; the next you are slightly above it, listening to the echo of the fall between rocky walls. The route includes some roots, steps and uneven stretches, but it remains a relatively short outing that immerses you quickly in the landscape. Despite its accessibility, the valley can feel secluded, with only the sound of rushing water, rustling leaves and the occasional bird call. Many visitors linger on the rocks or small clearings near the fall, simply watching the play of light on the water and the mist drifting over mossy stone. It is this blend of easy reach, geological interest and concentrated atmosphere that makes Stavehøl a standout natural stop on any Bornholm itinerary.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Melsted Havn
2.7 km
An authentic 1884 granite harbour preserving Bornholm's fishing heritage between protective skerries.
Louisenlund
7.7 km
Over 50 ancient standing stones in a mystical woodland setting, revealing Bornholm's Neolithic ritual landscape.
Midterpilt
12.2 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.
Klintebakken
13.7 km
A billion-year geological journey where ancient granite meets younger sandstone at Bornholm's most scientifically significant fault line.
Domen
15.9 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
17.1 km
Granite monument and sandy beach where Bornholm's industrial past meets modern recreation.
Slemmegrav
17.4 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
19.0 km
Bornholm's premier archive preserving centuries of island genealogy and local history.
Den russiske bjørn
19.3 km
Explore the enchanting Den russiske bjørn in Rønne, a unique tourist attraction steeped in local culture and history, perfect for memorable experiences.
Snogebæk Havn
19.5 km
Bornholm's easternmost harbor where fishing tradition, artisan culture, and pristine beaches converge.
Ronne Lighthouse
19.8 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.
Asylcenter Rønne & Segen
19.9 km
Experience community living at Asylcenter Rønne & Segen, a unique apartment-style accommodation in beautiful Bornholm, Denmark.
Destination Bornholm ApS
20.0 km
Discover the enchanting Danish island of Bornholm, where stunning landscapes meet rich cultural traditions and unforgettable experiences await.
Geografisk knudepunkt
20.1 km
Where latitude and longitude meet: Denmark's geographic heart on the Bornholm coast.
Lille Tårn
20.6 km
A 1685 fortress tower preserving military and local heritage on Denmark's easternmost inhabited islands.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bornholms Middelaldercenter
1.2 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.
Østerlars Church
1.2 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.
Kobbeådalen
1.8 km
A dramatic rift valley where granite cliffs, cascading waters, and ancient woodland create Bornholm's most enchanting natural sanctuary.
Gaarden: Melstedgård - Madkulturhus - Skafferiet
2.5 km
Experience authentic Bornholm farm life through hands-on traditions, animals, and local food culture.
Salene Gravplads (oldtid)
3.6 km
Discover the diverse landscapes and rich history of Slotslyngen, Bornholm's captivating natural reserve.
Gudhjem Hostel Cafe-Bar
3.6 km
Historic harbor-side hostel and laid-back summer café-bar in the heart of Gudhjem, offering relaxed rooms, communal spaces and breezy Baltic Sea views.
Oluf Høst Museum
3.7 km
An intimate artist’s home and hillside garden where Oluf Høst’s paintings hang exactly where they were created, overlooking the sea and rooftops of Gudhjem.
Helligdomsklipperne - Vandretur Start
3.7 km
Unassuming harbour rocks at Nørresand mark the start of a classic Bornholm coastal hike from Gudhjem to the dramatic Sanctuary Cliffs of Helligdomsklipperne.
Hestestenene
3.8 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
3.8 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.
Randkløve Skår
4.3 km
A dramatic granite gorge on Bornholm’s east coast, where a deep cleft in the cliffs frames raw Baltic seascapes, rugged trails and quietly powerful coastal nature.
Rø Plantage
5.2 km
Ancient forests, hidden fortresses, and serene lakes in Bornholm's tranquil woodland sanctuary.
Rø Transmitter
6.0 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.
Helligdomsklipperne
6.4 km
Dramatic granite cliffs, sea-carved caves and centuries of pilgrimage history meet art, light and Baltic horizons at Bornholm’s atmospheric Sanctuary Cliffs.
Dry Oven CAVE
6.7 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.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Gudhjem Bakke
3.2 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
3.5 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
3.8 km
Converted smokery café with sunset views, coffee, ice cream, and unhurried harbor charm.
Restaurant Bolsterbjerg v/Lola Mortensen
7.1 km
Countryside Danish cooking in a leafy Bornholm garden, where classic comfort dishes meet a tranquil event‑ready setting just outside Rønne.
Christianshøjkroen
7.8 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 Ekkodalshuset
8.9 km
Hearty Danish lunches and giant tartlets served in a cozy forest inn beside Bornholm’s echo valley, perfectly paired with walks in Almindingen.
Stammershalle Badehotel
9.5 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.
Svaneke Røgeri
11.7 km
Traditional Bornholm fish smokehouse and casual seaside restaurant in Svaneke, combining alder-smoked seafood, hearty buffets and open-air Baltic views.
Vinøst wine bar & restaurant
11.7 km
French-inspired natural wine bar on Svaneke’s cobbled square, pairing intimate candlelit ambience with a serious bottle list and refined small plates.
Svaneke Bryghus Restaurant
11.7 km
Historic brewery restaurant where organic craft beer and seasonal Nordic cuisine unite in rustic refinement.
Restaurant Pakhuset
11.8 km
Hearty steak-and-pasta classics, local Bornholm flavours and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere inside a characterful old warehouse in central Svaneke.
Restaurant Siemsens Gaard
11.9 km
Nordic cuisine in a 16th-century harbour house with Baltic Sea views and craft beer expertise.
Tre Tjenere Restaurant
11.9 km
Authentic Nordic cuisine and harbor views in Svaneke's most celebrated restaurant.
The Ranch
14.8 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
15.1 km
Bornholm's largest fish buffet on the cliffs, where smoked seafood and Baltic views define island dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sæbemageriet Bornholm
1.3 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
1.8 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
3.2 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.
Janne K
3.3 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
3.3 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
3.5 km
Curated fashion and gourmet finds in Gudhjem's charming harbor village.
Bornholmsk Pileflet
7.8 km
A small rural workshop in Klemensker where traditional willow weaving becomes functional art and intimate encounters with Bornholm’s craft heritage unfold.
The Bornholm Farm Shop
11.5 km
Cooperative countryside farm shop near Rønne, bringing Bornholm’s meats, oils, honey, lambskins and island delicacies together in a relaxed rural setting.
Art Box Bornholm
11.8 km
Compact gallery, design shop and creative supply store in Svaneke, distilling Bornholm’s coastal character into bold prints, maps, jewellery and art materials.
Reflax
11.8 km
Elegant Nordic minimalism in natural fibers, where timeless design meets contemporary edge.
Karamelleriet ApS
11.9 km
Handcrafted caramels and fudge in a working factory overlooking Svaneke's harbor.
My Home Furniture Ronne
12.3 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
13.2 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
18.7 km
Compact Bornholm food hall and roastery café in Rønne, bringing local flavours, natural groceries and island coffee culture together under one relaxed roof.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Provianten
3.5 km
Cozy harbor-side wine bar and eatery in Gudhjem, blending thoughtful drinks, simple honest food and Bornholm’s relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Penyllan Brewery
11.7 km
Harbourfront craft brewery on Bornholm’s north coast, blending barrel-aged beer, Nordic flavours and Baltic sea views in a relaxed, intimate taproom.
Søllings Bodega
11.7 km
Traditional Danish bodega in Svaneke's town square, where locals gather for games, conversation, and authentic pub culture.
Madvig
11.7 km
Intimate Bornholm wine and cocktail bar in Svaneke’s old streets, pouring carefully chosen bottles and classic drinks in a warm, candlelit setting.
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
12.7 km
Aakirkeby's unpretentious beer hall and community gathering space on the main square.
Cabaret Bornholm
13.0 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.
Mikkeller Aarsdale
13.5 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.
Pilen bar & bodega
15.3 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bar in central Allinge, serving cold beers, hearty plates and laid‑back Bornholm nightlife from lunchtime until late.
Ølstauan
15.5 km
Harbourside Bornholm bar where local craft beers, hearty Danish comfort food and Baltic Sea views come together in a relaxed, grown‑up atmosphere.
The Golden Rooster
16.5 km
Authentic Danish bodega serving hearty traditional fare with harbor views in central Nexø.
Underbar
16.7 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.
Slævasted
16.7 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.
Ølhuzed ApS
17.0 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
18.4 km
Casual sausage bar on Campus Bornholm serving traditional Danish pølser to students and visitors.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Requires Hike
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
