Ekkodalen (Echo Valley): Bornholm’s most famous rift valley
Dramatic rock walls and the iconic echo effect — an easy walk with a big “wow” factor, also great for families.
Bornholm • island centre • walking & hiking • Echo Valley • viewpoints • lakes & peat bogs
Almindingen Forest, Bornholm: hikes, Echo Valley, viewpoints & hidden nature
Almindingen is the green heart of Bornholm — a vast forest landscape of hills, rift valleys, lakes and peat bogs. It’s one of the best places on the island for an active nature day: walking, cycling, birdwatching and calm escapes away from the coast. Start near Aakirkeby, follow the forest trails, hear the famous echo in Ekkodalen (Echo Valley), and finish with panoramic views from Rytterknægten (Kongemindet).
Location
Central Bornholm (north of Aakirkeby)
Best for
hikes, biking, nature & views
Top highlight
Ekkodalen — Echo Valley
Iconic viewpoint
Rytterknægten / Kongemindet
Almindingen — Bornholm’s largest forest
Almindingen is not a natural forest — it was created mainly around the late 18th and early 19th century. Before reforestation, the area was shared grazing land, and the name “Almindingen” reflects that history: “what belongs to everyone.”
Today you’ll find quiet forest roads, well-marked trails, cliffs and boulders, small lakes and peat bogs. It’s a perfect base for an easy active day — especially if you want to experience Bornholm’s inland nature, not only the coastline.
What to see in Almindingen — the best places & route ideas
These are the key spots to add to your plan: Echo Valley, medieval ruins, viewpoints, and wetlands with boardwalks and wildlife.
Gamleborg & Lilleborg: medieval history in the heart of the forest
Bornholm’s oldest royal fortresses hidden among trees — a great route idea: ruins + lake + viewpoints.
Lakes & peat bogs: Bastemose, Udkæret and Bornholm’s wild wetlands
Boardwalks, observation towers and rich wildlife — ideal for a quieter walk and birdwatching.
Hiking in Almindingen: choose a 1–3 hour walk or a full-day route
Short forest loops and longer inland sections — get route inspiration plus practical tips for your day.
Rytterknægten (Kongemindet): Bornholm’s highest point and best forest panorama
If you want one strong viewpoint in the island centre, choose Rytterknægten — Bornholm’s highest point (162 m). The Kongemindet tower lifts you above the treetops for wide-open views.
On clear days you can see large parts of Bornholm — and sometimes even the Ertholmene archipelago. A perfect day plan: viewpoint + Echo Valley + a calm walk on forest trails.
Bison Forest in Almindingen: a rare wildlife experience on Bornholm
One of Almindingen’s biggest surprises is the chance to spot bison in the southern forest area. It’s a unique conservation-based nature experience — but remember: bison are wild animals.
Keep a safe distance, stay on marked routes and keep dogs on a leash. For the best chances of sightings, move quietly and treat it like a wildlife safari.
How to get to Almindingen
Almindingen lies in central Bornholm, just north of Aakirkeby. The easiest way is by car (several access points and parking areas), but cycling also works great — especially if you’re linking Almindingen with inland routes across the island.
FAQ — Almindingen Forest (Bornholm)
Where is Almindingen Forest on Bornholm?
Almindingen is in central Bornholm, just north of Aakirkeby.
What are the must-see places in Almindingen?
The top highlights are Ekkodalen (Echo Valley), the viewpoint at Rytterknægten (Kongemindet), and the lakes and peat bogs around the forest.
Can you really hear an echo in Echo Valley?
Yes — the steep rock walls in Ekkodalen can reflect sound, creating a clear echo in the right spots and conditions.
Can you see bison in Almindingen?
There is a designated bison area in the forest. Sightings aren’t guaranteed, but they are possible if you move quietly, stay on marked routes and keep a safe distance.
Plan your perfect Bornholm day
Combine Almindingen with a hike, a bike ride or a nearby highlight like Echo Valley. If you’d like, we can help you build a day plan (or a full itinerary) that fits your dates and travel style.
