Imagine trolls hurling boulders. That’s just one legend surrounding Paradisbakkerne. Welcome to a place where nature and myth intertwine. Paradisbakkerne or Paradise Hills is a unique area in eastern Bornholm. It’s known for its rocky landscape and cultural history.
Here in Paradisbakkerne, hills rise dramatically. They reach 30 to 50 meters above the surrounding terrain. Once open heathland, much of the area is now wooded. This transformation began in the 1930s.
Bornholm’s varied natural features include Almindingen and Jons Kapel. Paradisbakkerne stretches across 6200 hectares. This extensive forest boasts diverse flora and fauna. Rare amphibians and reptiles find refuge here.
Walk through valleys carved by time. These rift valleys define Paradisbakkerne’s hilly character. Evidence of the last ice age is visible everywhere. Look for glacial boulders. Spot the glacial striae.
Once, rock piles served as landmarks. Now, forests surround them. The geological foundation is granite. Imagine this landscape before the trees. Heather and low shrubs once dominated.
Birdwatchers rejoice. Paradisbakkerne hosts diverse species. Spot the Eurasian bittern. Watch for the white-tailed eagle. The European honey buzzard also calls this place home. Mammals like Bechstein’s bat thrive here.
Even fungi find a home here. Look for Amanita muscaria. Perhaps you will see Sparassis crispa.
Since the 18th century, Bornholm has focused on afforestation. Sheep grazing helps manage the land. It’s permitted in specific areas by the Regional Municipality.
Explore the extensive network of hiking trails in Paradisbakkerne. Walk from sunrise to sunset. Follow the rules of the Nature Protection Act. Feel free to pick berries and mushrooms. But only for personal use.
Cycle across the island. A path cuts through Paradisbakkerne east to west. Horse riders will enjoy the bridle path around the circumference.
Don’t miss Rokkestenen. This 35-ton pedestal rock wobbles. Find Bornholm’s biggest Rokkestenen. Push it the right way. Find the right spot.
Follow marked trails. Discover Gamleborg Castle foundations. This castle served as a refuge long ago.
In 1890, the area gained nature protection. Now, the Bornholm Authority cares for it. Ecological measures help maintain its beauty. Sheep grazing plays a part.
Remember, Paradisbakkerne is privately owned. Stay on marked paths between 6 AM and sunset. Cars are forbidden. Keep 150 meters from buildings.
Discover Fjældstauan. It was Denmark’s first youth hostel. Rector Hartvig Møller founded it in 1925.
See Grydesø. It is a small forest lake. High cliffs and dense forest surround it.
Explore Dybedal. It is a two-three-meter-wide and eight-meter-deep beautiful rift valley.
Look for Heksens dør in Dybedal. It is a vertical rock wall. A rectangle looks like a door. Can you see the witch’s face above it?
Visit Gamledam. Originally a bog, it’s now an idyllic lake. Cliffs border it on the north.
Here in Paradisbakkerne, nature whispers stories. Legends echo through the hills. Take a moment. Listen to the tales of paradise.