When most tourists think of Denmark they tend to consider destinations such as the country’s stunning capital Copenhagen.  One of Denmark’s hidden gems is the island of Bornholm, which due to its  remoteness has developed only very slowly in the post-war years. But recently tourism in this off the beaten track European destination has been a major boost for the almost 50,000 islanders.

by bjarke svendsen

Borholm lies around 100 miles south east of Copenhagen.  The capital is the port of Ronne.   The beautiful beaches are big Bornholm attractions, although obviously this depends very much on the weather in this northern European country.  The white Caribbean-like sand and clear waters of the Baltic Sea and the vast beach of Dueodde offer the very best Baltic Sea beaches.

by bjarke svendsen

Golf, horse riding, cycling, angling and other sporting activities are very popular, as well as art and cultural tourism.  The 2010 Dance Festival runs from 21 – 24 May with more than 350 folk dancers from Norway and Sweden performing.  Other Bornholm attractions include the picturesque old towns and ports, the famous round churches, windmills and the ruins at Hammershus, reputed to be the oldest castle in Northern Europe.  Hammerhus is the location of the Wonderfestiwal music event.

Hammerhus by BestofDanSliver

Families will enjoy the The Medieval Centre which explores life between through 1300 – 1450  through games and other interactive activities.  Joboland amusement park offers an outdoor water park, fairground rides, rowing boats and a zoo.  The Sommerfuglepark Nature Park is open from April 30 – October 24 2010 every day between 10am to 5pm.

Butterfly at Sommerfuglepark by @boetter

So if you’re looking for somewhere a bit different for a European holiday, Denmark’s Borholm island could be perfect for you.  You can find the best deals at hotels in Ronne, the island’s capital, with the HotelsCombined  price comparison site. If you’d prefer to rent a holiday home, Novasol has a selection of self catering properties, one of which is pictured below.