Allinge, Denmark: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025
Visiting Allinge offers a charming coastal experience in the northern part of Bornholm. The town is known for its scenic harbor, where colorful fishing boats and yachts create a picturesque setting. Visitors can enjoy wandering along the waterfront, stopping at cafés and shops that showcase local crafts and specialties, making it a lively yet relaxed destination.
Allinge also serves as a gateway to exploring the rugged coastline nearby, with dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches within easy reach. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of numerous hiking and biking trails that offer spectacular views of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding nature. The combination of natural beauty and small-town charm makes Allinge ideal for both adventure and relaxation.
Cultural offerings in Allinge add another layer of appeal. The town has galleries, local events, and festivals that celebrate Bornholm's artistic heritage. Whether you're exploring historic sites or simply soaking up the peaceful atmosphere, Allinge provides a welcoming atmosphere that highlights the best of the region's coastal life.
Table of Contents
- History of Allinge
- Best things to do and See in Allinge
- Allinge Harbour and Seafront
- Hammershus Castle Ruins near Allinge
- Opalsøen
- Helligdomsklipperne Cliffs near Allinge
- Bornholm Art Museum near Allinge
- Hammeren Peninsula near Allinge
- Sandvig Beach near Allinge
- Madsebakke Rock Carvings near Allinge
- Nordbornholms Røgeri in Allinge
- Tovbanen – The Zipline over Opalsøen near Allinge
- 8 Best Day Trips from Allinge
- Where to Stay in Allinge
- Best Time to Visit Allinge
- Visiting Allinge in Spring
- Visiting Allinge in Summer
- Visiting Allinge in Autumn
- Visiting Allinge in Winter
- How to get to Allinge
History of Allinge
Allinge in the Early Settlements
Allinge’s origins trace back to early settlements that took advantage of its natural harbor and strategic coastal position. Initially a small fishing village, it developed gradually as a hub for maritime activities. The natural landscape around Allinge shaped its early economy and lifestyle, centered largely on fishing and local trade.
Allinge during the Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages, Allinge grew in importance as a fortified settlement. Defensive structures were built to protect against pirates and foreign invasions, reflecting the town’s strategic value. The medieval period also saw the development of local markets and crafts, helping to establish Allinge as a community with a distinct identity.
Allinge in the Modern Era
In the modern era, Allinge transformed from a purely fishing-based village into a popular destination for tourists seeking natural beauty and cultural experiences. Improvements in transport and infrastructure allowed the town to grow while preserving much of its historic charm. Today, Allinge balances its traditional roots with a vibrant visitor scene, celebrating both its heritage and coastal allure.
Visiting Allinge for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Allinge on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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Best things to do and See in Allinge
1. Allinge Harbour and Seafront
Allinge’s harbor is the vibrant heart of the town, where fishing boats, yachts, and tour vessels bob along the piers. The area is lined with restaurants, smokehouses, and cafés, making it a perfect place to enjoy Bornholm delicacies like smoked herring. The atmosphere is especially lively in summer, with open-air events and live music.
Walking along the seafront reveals rugged coastal beauty and views of the Baltic. Sunsets here are stunning, and benches dot the route for quiet reflection or people-watching. It’s a great place to begin or end a day of exploring northern Bornholm.
2. Hammershus Castle Ruins near Allinge
Just 2.5 km from Allinge, Hammershus is the largest medieval castle ruin in Northern Europe. Perched on a cliff with sweeping sea views, it offers a powerful glimpse into Denmark’s feudal past. The fortress is freely accessible year-round and has recently added a modern visitor centre with exhibitions and a café.
The site is open daily from 10:00 to 17:00 (longer in summer), and admission to the ruins is free. The walking paths around the fortress are ideal for both history lovers and hikers. It’s one of Bornholm’s most iconic sites and well worth the short journey.
3. Opalsøen (The Opal Lake) near Allinge
Opalsøen is a striking freshwater lake just behind Hammershus, formed from an old granite quarry. It is surrounded by steep rock faces and walking trails, creating a dramatic setting for nature lovers. In the warmer months, people swim in the lake or enjoy the floating pontoon.
Adventurous visitors can try the high zipline that runs across the lake in summer, operated with safety equipment and guidance. Hiking paths link Opalsøen to other attractions nearby, making this a scenic spot for a picnic or a longer outdoor excursion.
4. Helligdomsklipperne Cliffs near Allinge
About 7 km from Allinge, the Helligdomsklipperne (“Sanctuary Cliffs”) are a natural wonder of Bornholm. These dramatic rock formations rise from the sea, creating narrow crevices, caves, and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can walk along the clifftop trails or descend stairways to sea level for an immersive experience.
This area is best explored on foot, and good walking shoes are recommended. The landscape changes with the light, making morning and late afternoon particularly good times to visit. Boat tours from Allinge or Gudhjem sometimes pass by these cliffs as well.
5. Bornholm Art Museum near Allinge
Located near the Helligdomsklipperne cliffs, the Bornholm Art Museum showcases the island’s artistic heritage with a focus on nature and landscape. Its architecture blends with the rocky surroundings, and large windows provide views of the cliffs and sea.
Entry costs around 95 DKK for adults and is free for children under 18. Opening hours are 10:00 to 17:00 daily (closed Mondays in winter). The museum’s permanent collection includes works by Oluf Høst and other notable Bornholm artists, as well as temporary exhibitions and an excellent café.
6. Hammeren Peninsula near Allinge
The Hammeren peninsula, north of Allinge, offers some of Bornholm’s wildest landscapes. Its windswept cliffs, forest trails, and open grasslands are perfect for long hikes. The lighthouse at Hammer Odde provides panoramic views across the sea to Sweden on clear days.
It’s easy to access Hammeren from Allinge by bike or on foot, and several routes loop through the area, including trails to Salomons Kapel, an old chapel ruin near the sea. This is a peaceful area with great photo opportunities and natural beauty.
7. Sandvig Beach near Allinge
Sandvig, now part of greater Allinge, has a lovely sandy beach set in a sheltered cove. It’s a popular swimming spot in summer, with calm water and facilities such as toilets, parking, and a nearby café. Families appreciate the gentle slope into the water and the clean surroundings.
Beyond the beach, Sandvig also offers charming streets, ice cream stands, and easy access to walking trails along the coast and toward Hammerknuden. It’s ideal for a relaxed half-day by the water or a stop during a longer walk.
8. Madsebakke Rock Carvings near Allinge
Just west of Allinge lies the Madsebakke rock carving site, Bornholm’s largest collection of Bronze Age petroglyphs. The site includes images of ships, wheels, and sun symbols carved into the exposed rock face, offering a mysterious glimpse into ancient life.
The site is free to visit and accessible via a short trail from Allinge. While the carvings are subtle and best seen in low-angle light (early morning or late evening), it’s a fascinating stop for those interested in prehistoric culture.
9. Nordbornholms Røgeri in Allinge
A visit to Allinge wouldn’t be complete without sampling Bornholm’s smoked fish. Nordbornholms Røgeri is a traditional smokehouse offering a buffet of herring, salmon, eel, and more. Diners can enjoy sea views from outdoor tables while savoring these local delicacies.
Open daily from late spring to autumn, with lunch and dinner service, the røgeri also sells takeaway and smoked goods to bring home. It’s a great place to experience the island’s culinary heritage in an authentic setting.
10. Tovbanen – The Zipline over Opalsøen near Allinge
Tovbanen is the thrilling zipline attraction that lets visitors soar across the Opal Lake near Hammershus. The line stretches 290 meters and reaches speeds of up to 70 km/h, offering adrenaline and fantastic views in one go.
The zipline is typically open from mid-May to mid-September and costs around 100 DKK per ride. Safety gear is included, and staff are on-site to assist. It’s an exhilarating way to experience the area’s dramatic landscape.
