Bornholm Green Wave

From Hammerknuden to Nexø and Dueodde

GOAL no. 3, 9, 11, 15, 17

Forest, rocky valleys and heather hills form an almost continuous nature network through the central Bornholm landscape. Together with a large network of trails weaving through the landscape, the area has positive effects on biodiversity, outdoor life and small communities.

The interest in nature experiences and outdoor activities is growing in Denmark. While some areas periodically have a large influx of visitors, others are overlooked, although they contain significant qualities and potential. In addition, access to many natural areas can be a challenge.

Now, outdoor enthusiasts have an alternative to Bornholm’s popular coastline with easy access to the central parts of the island via Højlyngsstien, a 67-kilometre-long trail. Extending from Hammerknuden on the northern tip of the island to Nexø and Aarsdale on the east coast, the main trail passes through former moorlands on hilly and rocky ground and ties the many local trails into a large network. The area is named the Green Wave and contains natural landscapes, patches of cultivated land, woodlands and ancient monuments.

The Green Wave aims to be a ‘quiet landscape’ offering tranquillity in contrast to the livelier activities on the coast. It also makes room for wild nature and biodiversity in an area partially characterized by agriculture and forestry.

The trail network has signage, shelters and primitive campsites as well as architect-designed viewing platforms at Hammersholm. In Ekkodalen, foresters built a boardwalk that winds its way through the rift valley. Additional features are planned, including a trail centre, more shelters and campsites. The hope is that private actors will add new attractions, making the Wave a destination that draws in new residents, tourists and business opportunities.

This project demonstrates how a coherent narrative, and a few physical elements can enhance access to nature with positive effects on health and quality of life while spreading tourism wider and thus benefitting a large number of small communities.

Project details

Where: Central Bornholm from Hammerknuden in the northwest to the towns of Nexø and Dueodde to the southeast.

Initiator: The Regional Municipality of Bornholm in collaboration with the Danish Nature Agency, the Bornholm Agriculture & Food Council, the Danish Society for Nature Conservation, Destination Bornholm, the University of Copenhagen Landscape strategy: In 2023, a landscape strategy is drawn up for Bornholm Green Wave based on dialogue with and involvement of local residents, professional experts, associations and interest groups. The landscape strategy is being prepared by the Regional Municipality of Bornholm in collaboration with the University of Copenhagen. There are no architects attached to the project on a permanent basis.

See more (in Danish): https://bornholm.info/erhverv/projekt-bornholms-groenne-boelge/