Døndalen

Døndalen is one of Bornholm’s most distinctive and scenic rift valleys, and an excellent destination for both short walks and longer hikes in varied terrain.

The wide valley stretches through a dramatic landscape of steep rock faces, dense woodland and open areas where nature changes clearly with the seasons. In spring, the forest floor is covered with flowers and wild garlic, filling the valley with scent and life, while summer and autumn offer lush vegetation and rich birdlife.

Running through the valley is the Døndale stream, which forms Døndalefaldet – a waterfall of around 20 metres, and one of the highest in Denmark. The waterfall is one of the most visited spots in the area and a natural highlight for many visitors to Døndalen.

Døndalen is particularly well suited for hiking, with routes ranging from short and easy walks to longer trails through more rugged and untouched landscapes. The lower sections feature wide and accessible paths, while the upper areas are more demanding and offer a wilder nature experience.

From several points in the valley, the landscape opens up with beautiful views across the treetops and out towards the Baltic Sea, including from the viewpoint at Amtmandsstenen.

Geologically, Døndalen stands out by being unusually wide compared to many other rift valleys on Bornholm. The area was formed as a graben and covers around 37 hectares. Large parts are now designated as untouched forest, and the valley was protected in 1975.