Almindingen: small lakes, reed beds and quiet forest paths
Bornholm’s largest forest is perfect for slow walking: small lakes, marshy areas and easy routes away from the coast.
Bornholm • lakes • peat bogs • quarry lakes • birdlife • easy walks
Lakes and peat bogs on Bornholm – moors, quarry lakes and peaceful nature spots
Bornholm’s inland landscapes are a calmer side of the island: small forest lakes, reed-filled wetlands and open peat bogs. Some lakes formed naturally after the Ice Age, while others are former quarry areas that later filled with freshwater and can shimmer in striking colours on sunny days.
Best for
quiet walks & nature breaks
Landscapes
lakes, wetlands & moors
Signature
colourful quarry lakes
Good to know
stick to paths & boardwalks
Why Bornholm has so many lakes and wetlands
Glaciers shaped Bornholm’s granite terrain into hollows, ridges and basins. Some lakes formed naturally as the ice melted. Later, mining and quarrying created new basins that filled with freshwater, turning industrial landscapes into today’s scenic lakes.
Where to go: lakes, wetlands and quarry landscapes
Easy ideas for a calm nature day on Bornholm – great for photos, short walks and quiet time outdoors.
Hammersø & Opalsø: dramatic lakes by Hammeren
Two atmospheric lakes near the coast in North Bornholm. Both are former quarry areas that later filled with freshwater, creating a unique rocky landscape at the foot of Hammeren.
Rø Plantation: forest atmosphere and small water landscapes
A quieter forest area with soft paths and a “hidden” feel—ideal for a short break from the busy coastal routes.
Peat bogs on Bornholm: quiet wetlands and great birdlife
Bornholm’s peat bogs (moors) are calm, open landscapes shaped by water and vegetation over thousands of years. They’re some of the best places for slow walking, nature photography and spotting birds—especially in spring and autumn.
For the best experience, follow marked paths and boardwalks where available, and bring an extra layer: wetlands can feel cooler and windier than the forest.
Rubinsø, Smaragdsø & Safirsø: colourful quarry lakes
Several Bornholm lakes are remnants of mining and quarrying. On sunny days the water can shimmer in striking colours, which is why some lakes carry “gemstone names”.
This mix of raw rock, deep water and changing light makes quarry lakes some of the most photogenic inland spots on the island.
FAQ — Lakes and peat bogs on Bornholm
Are Bornholm’s lakes natural or man-made?
Both. Some lakes formed after the Ice Age, while others are former quarry areas that later filled with freshwater.
Where can I see the most dramatic lakes?
In North Bornholm by Hammeren you’ll find Hammersø and Opalsø, surrounded by rocky terrain and coastal scenery.
What makes peat bogs special?
Peat bogs are water-shaped wetlands with unique plants and excellent birdlife—ideal for quiet walks and nature photography.
Why do some lakes have “gemstone” names?
Lakes like Rubinsø, Smaragdsø and Safirsø can shimmer in vivid colours on sunny days, especially in former quarry areas.
Plan your Bornholm nature day
Combine lakes and peat bogs with an easy hike, a guided tour, or a relaxed bike day. If you want help choosing a route that fits your time and pace, just reach out.
