Tropehuset
A 1,000 m² tropical house with butterflies, lush plants and exotic animals.
Bornholm • Sommerlunden • butterfly garden • Tropehuset • sand sculptures • Nexø • nature & art
Sommerlunden – a tropical butterfly garden and sand sculptures near Nexø
Sommerlunden is a unique place on Bornholm where a tropical butterfly garden – the result of landscape designer Flemming Jensen’s decades-long work – meets impressive sand sculptures created by Christian and August Warrer. Located on the outskirts of Nexø, it blends nature and art into a calm, inspiring space full of creativity.
Best for
families + creatives
Must-see
Tropehuset
Art
sand sculptures
Location
near Nexø
Sommerlunden – a new attraction on Bornholm
In 2025, Sommerlunden opened on the outskirts of Nexø – a special blend of two well-known experiences: Bornholm’s Butterfly Park and Nexø’s Sand Sculptures. While the concept is new, it builds on long-term experience and passion.
The botanical side grows out of Flemming Jensen’s work over nearly 30 years, creating a tropical environment filled with plants and butterflies. The sand sculpture tradition – launched in 2021 by Christian and August Warrer – adds a strong creative layer. When the butterfly park needed new caretakers and the sand sculptures needed a new location, the joint project was born.
Tropehuset – your tropical sanctuary
Tropehuset is the heart of Sommerlunden – a warm, humid “mini jungle” (about 1,000 m²) where exotic butterflies glide through palms and blooming flowers. Among the greenery you may also spot exotic frogs, iguanas, parrots, fish – and the legendary tortoise Sofus.
This micro-world exists thanks to years of dedicated work by landscape designer Flemming Jensen, creating a harmonious, closed ecosystem that invites slow exploration.
If you want to learn more, guided tours may be available – a great way to hear the story of Tropehuset, its plants and its inhabitants.
A wild corner of nature
The wild garden is a carefully designed green space near Nexø that combines prairie-inspired planting, Bornholm’s rocks and native species. It’s a semi-wild garden built for biodiversity – full of grasses, perennials and locally sourced stones, arranged with an intentional “natural” feel.
Paths weave through the planting, creating a gentle transition between cultivated design and nature left to itself. Stone structures and deadwood elements support insects and small wildlife, and quiet resting spots let you enjoy the calm of the ecosystem.
Mulberry House – a creative space
The Mulberry House is where nature meets creativity and calm. Inside an old wooden greenhouse, framed by two ancient mulberry trees, you can paint, draw, make collages – or simply rest, whatever the weather.
It’s an ideal place to slow down, get creative, or take shelter on rainy days. Cozy tables and chairs, potted plants and handmade decor create the feel of a homely orangery.
The forest at Sommerlunden
The forest is a small green oasis designed for movement, freedom and close contact with nature. Just behind Tropehuset, this wild patch of woodland has been gently adapted into a play-and-explore area – without losing its natural character.
What to expect
Natural woodland terrain with trees, shrubs and uneven ground.
Simple play elements: stones, logs, ropes and natural obstacles.
A great place for physical activity and exploration.
Tables and benches under apple trees – perfect for a picnic or a shaded break.
Sand sculptures – art shaped in sand
Sommerlunden’s sand sculpture area features impressive works created by artists from around the world. Built in the old silos of Nexø harbour, the exhibition evolves through the season – from masterful figures to more interactive compositions that connect nature and creativity.
It’s not only a visual experience, but a living story: workshops, guided walks and events turn the sculptures into shared moments, inviting you to discover the techniques and inspirations behind each sandy masterpiece.
Top highlights in Sommerlunden
A quick checklist of the key areas – perfect for planning what you want to see.
The wild garden
A semi-wild biodiversity garden with Bornholm rock elements and winding paths.
Mulberry House
A cozy creative greenhouse – also a great rainy-day shelter.
The forest
Natural play and exploration area, plus picnic spots under apple trees.
Sand sculptures
Seasonal sand art set in old harbour silos in Nexø.
Guided tours & workshops
Deeper insight into Tropehuset and creative activities around the exhibition.
What’s nearby?
Sommerlunden is just outside Nexø – easy to combine with a town stroll or more family-friendly ideas on Bornholm.
Nexø
Harbour vibe, shops and a great base for east and south Bornholm.
Explore Nexø
Svaneke
A picture-perfect town with crafts, sea views and great spots for a break.
Visit Svaneke
Family guide: Bornholm with kids
Ready-made ideas for family days: attractions, beaches, nature and planning tips.
See the guideFAQ — Sommerlunden
Where is Sommerlunden?
Just outside Nexø, in the eastern part of Bornholm.
What’s the must-see?
Tropehuset – the tropical butterfly house with lush planting and exotic life.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes – it combines nature, art and spaces for both relaxing and playful exploration.
Are there guided tours?
Guided tours in Tropehuset may be available depending on the season and the day’s programme.
What if it rains?
The Mulberry House is a cozy place to relax and do creative activities whatever the weather.
Plan your day at Sommerlunden
Start with Tropehuset and the wild garden, then explore the sand sculptures – and finish with a short stroll in Nexø. Looking for more family-friendly ideas on Bornholm? Use the links below.
