Melsted Havn
An authentic 1884 granite harbour preserving Bornholm's fishing heritage between protective skerries.
A charming historic fishing harbour on Bornholm's southern coast, Melsted Havn is a small private port beautifully nestled between two protective skerries. Built from granite in 1884, this intimate maritime village retains its authentic character with traditional fish smoking stoves, weathered cabins, and narrow cobbled streets. The harbour welcomes smaller leisure boats and offers a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking authentic Scandinavian coastal atmosphere.
A brief summary to Melsted Havn
- Melsted Langgade 16, Gudhjem, 3760, DK
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Walk the scenic coastal path from Gudhjem (approximately 1.5 kilometres) to experience the dramatic rocky shoreline and arrive at the harbour from the north, offering the best approach and views.
- Visit during calm weather to fully appreciate the harbour's protected setting between the two skerries and to safely explore the narrow streets and waterfront areas.
- Bring a camera to capture the traditional fish smoking stoves, weathered cabins, and granite harbour structures that exemplify authentic Danish maritime architecture.
- Allow time to observe working harbour activities—local fishermen and boat owners conduct daily maintenance and fishing operations, providing authentic insight into contemporary maritime life.
- Plan your visit for late morning or early afternoon when natural light illuminates the narrow streets and harbour structures most effectively for photography and exploration.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking from Gudhjem
A scenic coastal walking route of approximately 1.5 kilometres connects Gudhjem to Melsted Havn, following the rocky shoreline with marked signage. The walk takes 20–30 minutes depending on pace and photo stops. The path is accessible year-round but can be exposed to wind and wet conditions; sturdy footwear is recommended. This is the most popular and atmospheric approach to the harbour.
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Car from Gudhjem
Melsted Havn is accessible by car from Gudhjem via Melsted Langgade, approximately 2 kilometres away with a 5–10 minute drive. Limited parking is available near the harbour entrance; spaces are informal and free. The narrow village streets are not designed for large vehicles, so compact cars are preferable. Winter weather can occasionally affect road conditions on Bornholm.
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Bicycle from Gudhjem
A cycling route of approximately 2 kilometres connects Gudhjem to Melsted Havn via local roads, taking 10–15 minutes. The route is suitable for standard bicycles and offers an alternative to walking. Bicycle parking facilities are limited but available near the harbour. This option is practical during mild weather months.
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Bus from Bornholm towns
Local bus services connect Gudhjem and other Bornholm towns to the Melsted area with limited frequency (typically 2–4 services daily depending on season). Journey times from Rønne are approximately 45–60 minutes. Bus schedules vary seasonally; check local transport providers for current timetables. This option is most practical for visitors without personal transport.
Melsted Havn location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
Discover more about Melsted Havn
A Granite Haven Born from the Sea
Melsted Havn is a small, privately managed harbour situated on the southern coast of Bornholm, Denmark's easternmost island. Constructed from granite in 1884, the harbour was purpose-built to serve the local fishing community and remains one of the island's most authentic maritime settlements. The port's distinctive character stems from its strategic location between two protective skerries—Sorteskær and Guleskær—which shield the harbour from rough seas and create a naturally secure anchorage. Today, the harbour accommodates approximately 50 local leisure boats, maintaining its working maritime identity while welcoming visitors seeking genuine coastal experiences.The Soul of a Historic Fishing Village
Walking through Melsted Havn transports visitors to another era. The settlement preserves the material culture of traditional Danish fishing life: original fish smoking stoves stand among weathered wooden cabins and stone houses that line the narrow, winding streets. These structures, many dating back generations, create an intimate streetscape that feels frozen in time. The harbour's compact layout and modest scale—a stark contrast to modern marinas—reinforce its identity as a working fishing village rather than a tourist attraction. The granite construction of the harbour walls themselves represents 19th-century maritime engineering, with stones fitted to withstand decades of Atlantic exposure.Coastal Landscape and Natural Setting
The harbour sits within a dramatic coastal landscape characterised by rocky outcrops, protective skerries, and the open Baltic Sea. The surrounding terrain is typical of Bornholm's rugged eastern shore, with granite formations and sparse vegetation creating a windswept, elemental atmosphere. The two skerries that frame the harbour—Sorteskær and Guleskær—are visible landmarks that define the seascape and provide natural breakwaters. The coastal path connecting Melsted to the nearby village of Gudhjem, approximately 1.5 kilometres to the north, follows the shoreline and offers spectacular views of the rocky coast and open water.A Gateway to Maritime Heritage
Melsted Havn functions as a living museum of Bornholm's maritime heritage. The presence of traditional fishing infrastructure—smoking stoves, net-mending areas, and boat maintenance facilities—reflects centuries of fishing tradition on the island. Unlike commercialised harbours, Melsted retains its primary function as a working port where local fishermen and boat owners conduct daily activities. This authenticity makes the harbour invaluable for understanding how Bornholm's coastal communities sustained themselves through fishing and maritime trade. The harbour's modest size and private status have protected it from overdevelopment, preserving its character as a genuine working settlement.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The harbour welcomes visitors to explore its narrow streets, observe maritime activities, and photograph the picturesque combination of historic architecture and natural landscape. The setting is ideal for leisurely walks, sketching, or simply absorbing the quiet atmosphere of a functioning fishing village. The coastal path from Gudhjem provides an accessible walking route with views of the shoreline and access to the harbour from the north. The compact nature of the settlement means visitors can experience the entire harbour and village within a short visit, though the peaceful ambiance encourages lingering. Mobile reception is generally available, and basic amenities can be found in nearby Gudhjem.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Melsted Havn
0.0 km
An authentic 1884 granite harbour preserving Bornholm's fishing heritage between protective skerries.
Louisenlund
9.3 km
Over 50 ancient standing stones in a mystical woodland setting, revealing Bornholm's Neolithic ritual landscape.
Midterpilt
14.1 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.
Domen
14.6 km
Geometric wooden dome on Allinge’s seafront, blending Baltic views, Folkemødet history and flexible cultural life in one striking, light-filled shell.
Klintebakken
16.4 km
A billion-year geological journey where ancient granite meets younger sandstone at Bornholm's most scientifically significant fault line.
Vang Pier
16.7 km
Granite monument and sandy beach where Bornholm's industrial past meets modern recreation.
Slemmegrav
19.1 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
20.9 km
Bornholm's premier archive preserving centuries of island genealogy and local history.
Den russiske bjørn
21.1 km
Explore the enchanting Den russiske bjørn in Rønne, a unique tourist attraction steeped in local culture and history, perfect for memorable experiences.
St Nicholas Church
21.6 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.
Ronne Lighthouse
21.6 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.
Snogebæk Havn
21.7 km
Bornholm's easternmost harbor where fishing tradition, artisan culture, and pristine beaches converge.
Asylcenter Rønne & Segen
21.7 km
Experience community living at Asylcenter Rønne & Segen, a unique apartment-style accommodation in beautiful Bornholm, Denmark.
Destination Bornholm ApS
21.7 km
Discover the enchanting Danish island of Bornholm, where stunning landscapes meet rich cultural traditions and unforgettable experiences await.
Geografisk knudepunkt
22.7 km
Where latitude and longitude meet: Denmark's geographic heart on the Bornholm coast.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kobbeådalen
1.2 km
A dramatic rift valley where granite cliffs, cascading waters, and ancient woodland create Bornholm's most enchanting natural sanctuary.
Gudhjem Hostel Cafe-Bar
1.3 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
1.4 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
1.6 km
Unassuming harbour rocks at Nørresand mark the start of a classic Bornholm coastal hike from Gudhjem to the dramatic Sanctuary Cliffs of Helligdomsklipperne.
Røverborgen
1.8 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.
Hestestenene
1.9 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.
Salene Gravplads (oldtid)
2.1 km
Discover the diverse landscapes and rich history of Slotslyngen, Bornholm's captivating natural reserve.
Stavehøl vandfald ved Kobbeå
2.7 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.
Bornholms Middelaldercenter
3.5 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
3.9 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.
Randkløve Skår
5.1 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.
Helligdomsklipperne
5.2 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
5.6 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.
The Sanctuary Rocks
5.8 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
5.8 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.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Gudhjem Bakke
0.9 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
1.1 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
1.5 km
Converted smokery café with sunset views, coffee, ice cream, and unhurried harbor charm.
Stammershalle Badehotel
8.3 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.
Restaurant Bolsterbjerg v/Lola Mortensen
9.5 km
Countryside Danish cooking in a leafy Bornholm garden, where classic comfort dishes meet a tranquil event‑ready setting just outside Rønne.
Christianshøjkroen
10.4 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
11.5 km
Hearty Danish lunches and giant tartlets served in a cozy forest inn beside Bornholm’s echo valley, perfectly paired with walks in Almindingen.
Svaneke Røgeri
12.5 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
12.6 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
12.6 km
Historic brewery restaurant where organic craft beer and seasonal Nordic cuisine unite in rustic refinement.
Restaurant Pakhuset
12.6 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
12.7 km
Nordic cuisine in a 16th-century harbour house with Baltic Sea views and craft beer expertise.
Tre Tjenere Restaurant
12.8 km
Authentic Nordic cuisine and harbor views in Svaneke's most celebrated restaurant.
Nordbornholms Røgeri Butik & Restaurant
13.8 km
Bornholm's largest fish buffet on the cliffs, where smoked seafood and Baltic views define island dining.
Restaurant Margeritten
13.9 km
Casual Danish family restaurant on Allinge’s church square, serving generous classics, pizzas and a salad bar in relaxed, central surroundings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Janne K
0.9 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
1.0 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
1.1 km
Curated fashion and gourmet finds in Gudhjem's charming harbor village.
Baltic Sea Glass
1.9 km
Renowned Bornholm glass studio and gallery where molten sand, Baltic light, and island-inspired design become elegant, hand-blown works of art.
Sæbemageriet Bornholm
3.9 km
Intimate soap workshop-boutique in Østerlars, where Bornholm’s landscapes are translated into handcrafted bars, gentle scents and cosy, small-batch island charm.
Klippeøens Gårdbutik
4.2 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.
Bornholmsk Pileflet
8.8 km
A small rural workshop in Klemensker where traditional willow weaving becomes functional art and intimate encounters with Bornholm’s craft heritage unfold.
Art Box Bornholm
12.6 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
12.7 km
Elegant Nordic minimalism in natural fibers, where timeless design meets contemporary edge.
Karamelleriet ApS
12.7 km
Handcrafted caramels and fudge in a working factory overlooking Svaneke's harbor.
The Bornholm Farm Shop
13.7 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
15.1 km
Quality furniture and home goods at outlet prices in Bornholm's commercial heart.
Sparloppan
15.4 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
15.9 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
20.4 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
1.1 km
Cozy harbor-side wine bar and eatery in Gudhjem, blending thoughtful drinks, simple honest food and Bornholm’s relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Penyllan Brewery
10.7 km
Harbourfront craft brewery on Bornholm’s north coast, blending barrel-aged beer, Nordic flavours and Baltic sea views in a relaxed, intimate taproom.
Cabaret Bornholm
12.4 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.
Søllings Bodega
12.6 km
Traditional Danish bodega in Svaneke's town square, where locals gather for games, conversation, and authentic pub culture.
Madvig
12.6 km
Intimate Bornholm wine and cocktail bar in Svaneke’s old streets, pouring carefully chosen bottles and classic drinks in a warm, candlelit setting.
Pilen bar & bodega
14.0 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bar in central Allinge, serving cold beers, hearty plates and laid‑back Bornholm nightlife from lunchtime until late.
Ølstauan
14.2 km
Harbourside Bornholm bar where local craft beers, hearty Danish comfort food and Baltic Sea views come together in a relaxed, grown‑up atmosphere.
Mikkeller Aarsdale
14.9 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.
Buddha Bar
15.3 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.
Underbar
15.4 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.
Dagligstuen
15.4 km
Aakirkeby's unpretentious beer hall and community gathering space on the main square.
Ølhuzed ApS
17.7 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.
The Golden Rooster
18.4 km
Authentic Danish bodega serving hearty traditional fare with harbor views in central Nexø.
Slævasted
18.6 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.
Pølse baren på Campus Bornholm
20.2 km
Casual sausage bar on Campus Bornholm serving traditional Danish pølser to students and visitors.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Doiazd7 Do Ronne
20.9 km
Compact island nightclub bringing late-night beats, colourful lights and an easygoing local crowd to the harbour town of Rønne on Bornholm.
Palæcafeen
21.1 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
21.3 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
21.5 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
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly