Helligdomsklipperne
Along Bornholm’s dramatic northern coast, between Gudhjem and Tejn, rise the Helligdomsklipperne — “The Sanctuary Cliffs.” Towering up to 22 meters above the Baltic Sea, these dark granite formations are among the island’s most iconic natural landmarks. Shaped by ice, wind, and waves over millions of years, the cliffs form a wild, sculptural landscape where rock, water, and light meet in constant motion. Standing here, with the sea surging below and seabirds gliding overhead, you feel the raw power and timeless beauty that define Bornholm’s northern shore.
The name Helligdomsklipperne comes from a nearby holy spring once visited by pilgrims seeking healing waters. Today, the cliffs remain a place of contemplation — not for miracles, but for the awe they inspire. Narrow paths lead down to the water, where you can stand at the base of the rock walls and watch the sea crash into the caves. Above, pine trees cling to the cliff edge, their roots winding through cracks in the granite. The atmosphere shifts constantly with the light: silver and soft on calm mornings, deep and dramatic when the Baltic grows dark and restless.
Atop the cliffs stands the Bornholm Art Museum, designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape. Its clean lines and light-filled galleries overlook the sea, offering a striking contrast to the rugged nature below. Together, they form a perfect dialogue between art and geology — between human creation and the timeless artistry of the Earth itself.
From Gudhjem you can take a boat trip up to the cliffs. On the way you get to see the coast from the water a total different perspective. You can take you back and forth trip, but obviously we took the one way and then hiked back to Gudhjem. A beautifull trip.
Best time to visit
- Early morning for soft, diffused light on the cliffs.
- Late afternoon or sunset for warm tones and glowing granite.
- Autumn for low light and dramatic weather.
- Winter for solitude and stark contrasts.
Practical tips
- Parking available near the Bornholm Art Museum; marked paths to cliff viewpoints and shore.
- Wear sturdy shoes — trails to the base can be steep and slippery.
- The cliffs are best photographed in side light; midday light can flatten textures.
- Combine with stops at Gudhjem, Døndalen, and Tejn for a full coastal route.
Where is it?
Photography tips
- The granite cliffs and vertical formations rising above the sea.
- Caves and rock textures at the base of the cliffs.
- The Bornholm Art Museum framed against sea and sky.
- Long-exposure seascapes capturing motion of water and mist.
- Golden or blue-hour light transforming the rock surface.
Hiking tips
- Helligdomsklipperne coastal path: 3–4 km stretch of the Baltic coastal trail.
- Gudhjem–Helligdomsklipperne: 5 km scenic route with sea views and forested slopes.
- Terrain: rocky and uneven; moderate difficulty.
- Bring a tripod for long exposures and careful framing along the cliff edge.