Bornholm - Hammershus Castle Ruins

There is a rewarding walk northwards from Allinge-Sandvig, one of the most attractive resorts on the island of Bornholm, to the Hammeren Lighthouse, passing the Stejleberg (84m/276ft), the highest cliff on the island. Strategically placed on a rocky plateau to the southwest of the lighthouse lie the ruins of Hammershus Castle; these medieval castle ruins are the largest in Northern Europe. The former castle, built about 1250 as a protection against the Danish kings, was fought for violently on several occasions and then used as a quarry for building stone until placed under a preservation order in 1822.

There is a magnificent view from the 74m/240ft high cliff, and there are interesting boat trips to be made from Hammershus, for example to the Våde Ovn, a cave 55m/180ft long. The walk along the footpath to the Slotslyngen woodland is considered one of the most beautiful in Denmark.