Lille Tårn
A 1685 fortress tower preserving military and local heritage on Denmark's easternmost inhabited islands.
A historic 1685 tower on Frederiksø island housing a local history museum. Originally built as part of the archipelago's fortification, this compact museum displays fishing equipment, hand tools, ironworks, cannons, vintage furniture, and exhibits on local flora and fauna. Accessible via a scenic ferry journey from Gudhjem, Lille Tårn offers insight into the military and civilian heritage of Denmark's easternmost inhabited islands.
A brief summary to Lille Tårn
- Gudhjem, 3760, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Opening hours follow the ferry schedule from Gudhjem—the museum closes 30 minutes before the last departure, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid being stranded.
- Combine your visit with Store Tårn on Christiansø and explore the swing bridge connecting the two islands for a complete picture of the archipelago's fortification.
- The tower's narrow interior stairs and compact spaces may challenge visitors with mobility issues; wear comfortable shoes for climbing.
- Bring a camera for the granite walls, old cannons, and panoramic views of the Baltic—the fortress setting provides excellent photographic opportunities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Ferry from Gudhjem
Regular ferry service operates from Gudhjem harbour (approximately 18 kilometres northeast) to Christiansø and Frederiksø. Journey time is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on sea conditions and weather. Ferries run daily during the tourist season (typically May to September) with reduced frequency in winter months. Return ferries depart multiple times daily, with the last departure typically in early evening. Standard adult fare ranges from approximately 150–200 Danish kroner return. Ferry schedules are weather-dependent and may be cancelled during storms or rough seas. Book tickets at the harbour or in advance online.
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Private boat or yacht
Those with private vessels can anchor in the natural harbour between Christiansø and Frederiksø. The sound provides excellent shelter and is well-suited for small boats. No mooring fees apply, but anchorage is subject to weather conditions and seasonal accessibility. Navigation requires basic maritime skills and awareness of local tidal patterns and currents.
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Guided tour from Bornholm
Several tour operators in Gudhjem and other Bornholm towns offer guided day trips to the Ertholmene archipelago, typically including ferry transport, guided walks, and museum access. Tours generally run 4–6 hours and cost between 300–500 Danish kroner per person, depending on the operator and inclusions. Tours often depart mid-morning and return by late afternoon, coordinating with ferry schedules.
Lille Tårn location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lille Tårn
A Fortress Tower Frozen in Time
Lille Tårn stands as a tangible link to the 17th-century fortification of the Ertholmene archipelago. Built between 1685 and 1687, this compact tower was constructed as part of a defensive strategy to protect Denmark's eastern frontier. The structure has retained its original fortress appearance, with thick granite walls and period details that transport visitors back three centuries. After its military purpose waned, the tower served a darker chapter as a prison before being repurposed as a museum, transforming it from a place of confinement into one of education and cultural preservation.The Museum's Layered Collections
Inside Lille Tårn, the ground floor showcases the practical tools of island life: fishing supplies, hand tools, and ironworks that reveal how residents sustained themselves through maritime trades. Ascending the narrow stairs, visitors encounter cannons positioned to defend the islands, alongside vintage furniture pieces that furnish a glimpse into domestic life during the fortress era. Models of the islands and their fortifications provide spatial context, while displays of local flora and fauna connect the human history to the natural environment that shaped daily existence on these remote islands.Gateway to Frederiksø's Heritage
Located on Frederiksø, the smaller of the two inhabited islands in the archipelago, Lille Tårn serves as the primary museum for understanding the islands' original function as a military stronghold. Frederiksø itself, named after King Frederick IV, covers just 9.9 acres and is connected to the larger Christiansø island by a 30-metre swing bridge. The tower's position on this quieter island provides a more intimate setting for exploration, away from the busier Christiansø with its church and lighthouse. The museum's rustic, military-historical presentation maintains the authentic atmosphere of the fortress period.Visiting the Easternmost Outpost
Access to Lille Tårn requires a ferry journey from Gudhjem on Bornholm, making it a deliberate pilgrimage rather than a casual stop. The archipelago's isolation has preserved its character remarkably well—the external appearance of the islands has changed little in over 300 years. Girdled by thick granite walls with old cannons still pointed seaward, the islands present a picturesque tableau seemingly suspended in history. The museum operates daily, with opening hours coordinated to the ferry schedule, ensuring visitors can explore the tower and return the same day or extend their stay in the island's handful of accommodations.The Broader Fortress Context
While Lille Tårn houses the primary museum, its counterpart Store Tårn on Christiansø—a 25-metre diameter structure built in 1684—has served as a lighthouse for the past two centuries. Together, these towers represent the dual purposes of the fortification: military defense and maritime navigation. The islands' strategic location at Denmark's easternmost point made them valuable during periods of regional conflict, and their architectural legacy continues to define the character of this unique Danish outpost in the Baltic Sea.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Melsted Havn
18.3 km
An authentic 1884 granite harbour preserving Bornholm's fishing heritage between protective skerries.
Louisenlund
21.9 km
Over 50 ancient standing stones in a mystical woodland setting, revealing Bornholm's Neolithic ritual landscape.
Domen
24.9 km
Geometric wooden dome on Allinge’s seafront, blending Baltic views, Folkemødet history and flexible cultural life in one striking, light-filled shell.
Midterpilt
26.1 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.
Vang Pier
30.0 km
Granite monument and sandy beach where Bornholm's industrial past meets modern recreation.
Snogebæk Havn
33.2 km
Bornholm's easternmost harbor where fishing tradition, artisan culture, and pristine beaches converge.
Klintebakken
33.7 km
A billion-year geological journey where ancient granite meets younger sandstone at Bornholm's most scientifically significant fault line.
Slemmegrav
37.1 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Slemmegrav, a hidden gem in Rønne, Denmark, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Geografisk knudepunkt
37.7 km
Where latitude and longitude meet: Denmark's geographic heart on the Bornholm coast.
Baptist Stein
38.1 km
Uncover the enchanting beauty and geological wonders of Baptist Stein, a hidden gem in Aakirkeby that captivates all who visit.
Bornholms Ø-arkiv
38.9 km
Bornholm's premier archive preserving centuries of island genealogy and local history.
Bornholms Museum
39.1 km
Explore the heritage of Bornholm Island at Bornholms Museum, featuring archaeological artifacts and rich local history.
Den russiske bjørn
39.1 km
Explore the enchanting Den russiske bjørn in Rønne, a unique tourist attraction steeped in local culture and history, perfect for memorable experiences.
Bornholm Airport
39.3 km
Discover the beauty of Bornholm Island through its charming airport, your first step into Denmark's picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
St Nicholas Church
39.6 km
Harbor-top parish church of Bornholm’s capital, where a medieval seafarers’ chapel evolved into the island’s largest Lutheran landmark of stone, music and light.
Unmissable attractions to see
Christiansø Havn , Frederiksø lighthouse
0.2 km
Historic Baltic fortress harbour and lighthouse where granite ramparts, island life and open sea meet in a compact, atmospheric gateway to Christiansø.
Big Tower
0.3 km
A 17th‑century fortress tower turned lighthouse and exhibition space, the Big Tower on Christiansø pairs Baltic panoramas with rich naval history and island atmosphere.
Gudhjem Hostel Cafe-Bar
18.2 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
18.3 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
18.4 km
Unassuming harbour rocks at Nørresand mark the start of a classic Bornholm coastal hike from Gudhjem to the dramatic Sanctuary Cliffs of Helligdomsklipperne.
Gaarden: Melstedgård - Madkulturhus - Skafferiet
18.6 km
Experience authentic Bornholm farm life through hands-on traditions, animals, and local food culture.
Røverborgen
18.6 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.
Hestestenene
18.8 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.
Kobbeådalen
18.9 km
A dramatic rift valley where granite cliffs, cascading waters, and ancient woodland create Bornholm's most enchanting natural sanctuary.
Randkløve Skår
19.0 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.
Salene Gravplads (oldtid)
19.3 km
Discover the diverse landscapes and rich history of Slotslyngen, Bornholm's captivating natural reserve.
Helligdomsklipperne
20.5 km
Dramatic granite cliffs, sea-carved caves and centuries of pilgrimage history meet art, light and Baltic horizons at Bornholm’s atmospheric Sanctuary Cliffs.
Stavehøl vandfald ved Kobbeå
20.6 km
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.
The Swan / Svanen
20.7 km
A modest maritime monument in a quiet Svaneke street, The Swan keeps the memory of Bornholm’s once-vital Baltic trading harbour quietly afloat.
Svaneke Havn
20.8 km
A compact Bornholm harbour where granite rocks, fishing boats and gourmet treats meet in one of Denmark’s most charming little market towns.
Essential places to dine
Spektakel-bar
18.2 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
18.3 km
Converted smokery café with sunset views, coffee, ice cream, and unhurried harbor charm.
Restaurant Gudhjem Bakke
18.4 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.
Svaneke Røgeri
20.5 km
Traditional Bornholm fish smokehouse and casual seaside restaurant in Svaneke, combining alder-smoked seafood, hearty buffets and open-air Baltic views.
Restaurant Siemsens Gaard
20.8 km
Nordic cuisine in a 16th-century harbour house with Baltic Sea views and craft beer expertise.
Vinøst wine bar & restaurant
20.8 km
French-inspired natural wine bar on Svaneke’s cobbled square, pairing intimate candlelit ambience with a serious bottle list and refined small plates.
Restaurant Pakhuset
20.8 km
Hearty steak-and-pasta classics, local Bornholm flavours and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere inside a characterful old warehouse in central Svaneke.
Tre Tjenere Restaurant
20.9 km
Authentic Nordic cuisine and harbor views in Svaneke's most celebrated restaurant.
Svaneke Bryghus Restaurant
20.9 km
Historic brewery restaurant where organic craft beer and seasonal Nordic cuisine unite in rustic refinement.
Stammershalle Badehotel
22.1 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.
Nordbornholms Røgeri Butik & Restaurant
24.5 km
Bornholm's largest fish buffet on the cliffs, where smoked seafood and Baltic views define island dining.
Restaurant Det Gamle Posthus,Allinge
24.6 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
24.6 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.
Restaurant Margeritten
24.7 km
Casual Danish family restaurant on Allinge’s church square, serving generous classics, pizzas and a salad bar in relaxed, central surroundings.
Ellas Restaurant og Konditori
26.1 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
Førder Bornholm
18.3 km
Curated fashion and gourmet finds in Gudhjem's charming harbor village.
Lifestone
18.3 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.
Janne K
18.4 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.
Baltic Sea Glass
18.9 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
19.3 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.
Art Box Bornholm
20.7 km
Compact gallery, design shop and creative supply store in Svaneke, distilling Bornholm’s coastal character into bold prints, maps, jewellery and art materials.
Karamelleriet ApS
20.8 km
Handcrafted caramels and fudge in a working factory overlooking Svaneke's harbor.
Reflax
20.9 km
Elegant Nordic minimalism in natural fibers, where timeless design meets contemporary edge.
Sæbemageriet Bornholm
21.9 km
Intimate soap workshop-boutique in Østerlars, where Bornholm’s landscapes are translated into handcrafted bars, gentle scents and cosy, small-batch island charm.
Bornholmsk Pileflet
26.5 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
31.9 km
Cooperative countryside farm shop near Rønne, bringing Bornholm’s meats, oils, honey, lambskins and island delicacies together in a relaxed rural setting.
My Home Furniture Ronne
32.2 km
Quality furniture and home goods at outlet prices in Bornholm's commercial heart.
Sparloppan
32.6 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
33.1 km
Working island flour mill and cozy farm shop where Bornholm grain becomes characterful flour and local delicacies in the heart of Aakirkeby.
Mollys Verden
33.4 km
A cosy Bornholm interiors haven in Snogebæk, where playful Nordic design, colourful homewares and quirky gifts turn casual browsing into a gentle little adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Provianten
18.2 km
Cozy harbor-side wine bar and eatery in Gudhjem, blending thoughtful drinks, simple honest food and Bornholm’s relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Søllings Bodega
20.8 km
Traditional Danish bodega in Svaneke's town square, where locals gather for games, conversation, and authentic pub culture.
Madvig
20.9 km
Intimate Bornholm wine and cocktail bar in Svaneke’s old streets, pouring carefully chosen bottles and classic drinks in a warm, candlelit setting.
Penyllan Brewery
23.6 km
Harbourfront craft brewery on Bornholm’s north coast, blending barrel-aged beer, Nordic flavours and Baltic sea views in a relaxed, intimate taproom.
Mikkeller Aarsdale
24.0 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.
Ølstauan
24.7 km
Harbourside Bornholm bar where local craft beers, hearty Danish comfort food and Baltic Sea views come together in a relaxed, grown‑up atmosphere.
Pilen bar & bodega
24.7 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bar in central Allinge, serving cold beers, hearty plates and laid‑back Bornholm nightlife from lunchtime until late.
Underbar
25.4 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.
Cabaret Bornholm
26.1 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.
The Golden Rooster
29.1 km
Authentic Danish bodega serving hearty traditional fare with harbor views in central Nexø.
Slævasted
29.1 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.
Buddha Bar
32.5 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
32.6 km
Aakirkeby's unpretentious beer hall and community gathering space on the main square.
Sørens Værtshus
33.2 km
Casual seaside pub in Snogebæk serving deep-pan stone-oven pizza, cold drinks and live summer music a short stroll from Bornholm’s sandy beaches.
Ølhuzed ApS
34.0 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Doiazd7 Do Ronne
38.9 km
Compact island nightclub bringing late-night beats, colourful lights and an easygoing local crowd to the harbour town of Rønne on Bornholm.
Palæcafeen
39.1 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
39.3 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
39.5 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
- Historic
- Unique
- Scenic
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Requires Hike
- Seasonal Only
- Remote
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly