Christianshøjkroen

A yellow cottage hidden in Bornholm’s forest

Christianshøjkroen sits almost secretively in the wooded interior of Bornholm, a sunny yellow cottage surrounded by tall trees, birdsong and the earthy scent of pine. Reached via small country roads, it feels like a classic Danish landevejskro that has been quietly folded into the forest. White-framed windows, low gables and a slightly rambling layout reinforce the impression of an old inn that has grown organically over time.Step inside and the atmosphere is unmistakably rural Bornholm: wooden floors, simple tables, candlelight and unfussy details that keep the forest setting centre stage. In summer, doors open to a garden terrace where guests sit beneath the trees; in cooler seasons, the interior rooms feel snug and sheltering, a contrast to the wind that often sweeps the island.

Classic smørrebrød with a Bornholm twist

Christianshøjkroen is best known for its smørrebrød and its elaborate Skovfrokost, a multi-dish forest lunch that reimagines classic Danish open sandwiches with local produce. Expect rye bread topped with delicately arranged shrimp, egg and seasonal vegetables, or combinations such as smoked potatoes, crispy chicken skin and creamy mayonnaise composed like miniature works of art.The kitchen plays with textures and Nordic flavours rather than overwhelming them. Local fish, herbs from the island and seasonal berries often appear, underlining the connection between the restaurant and the surrounding landscape. Alongside beer from Danish breweries, you may find house schnapps infused with woodruff or other forest botanicals, continuing the woodland theme into the glass.

From country inn to destination dining room

Although very much a restaurant today, Christianshøjkroen carries the spirit of the traditional kro, historically a wayside inn where travellers found food and rest. Over the years it has evolved into a polished dining destination while keeping that welcoming backbone. The building’s age shows in the slightly uneven floors and low ceilings in some rooms, hints of its earlier life.The owners and chefs have leaned into this heritage rather than replacing it, layering contemporary Nordic cooking onto a framework of Danish comfort dishes. The result is a place where a leisurely lunch can feel both nostalgic and modern, with well-composed plates served in an environment that still feels like a countryside refuge rather than a formal city restaurant.

Seasons, light and the mood of the woods

The experience here changes markedly with the seasons. On bright summer days, sunlight filters through the trees and the terrace becomes the preferred dining room, with the gentle hum of conversation mingling with the rustle of leaves. In autumn, the forest glows with copper colours and the menu shifts toward richer flavours that suit the cooler air.Winter and early spring turn the approach through the woods into something almost cinematic, with bare branches and low northern light, making the warm glow of the kro’s windows especially inviting. Inside, candles and close-set tables create an intimate feel, well suited to unhurried meals that stretch over several courses and coffee.

A relaxed yet refined Bornholm outing

Dining at Christianshøjkroen is as much about the outing as the food. The forest location encourages you to slow down, make time for a walk before or after your meal, and treat lunch as a highlight of the day rather than a quick stop. Service balances professional polish with a laid-back island rhythm, allowing you to linger over snaps, dessert or an extra pot of coffee.Whether you come for a traditional smørrebrød lunch, a special-occasion dinner or simply to see how Bornholm’s ingredients are interpreted in a rural setting, the restaurant offers a clear sense of place. The combination of wooded surroundings, historic cottage charm and carefully prepared Danish dishes makes Christianshøjkroen a memorable and quintessentially Bornholm experience.