Finding peace in Bornholm’s bliss

As I stepped off the ferry onto Bornholm Island for the first time, a wave of relief washed over me, replacing the lingering anxiety that had plagued me throughout the journey. The prospect of spending hours on a ferry had left me feeling apprehensive and stressed for weeks already, but as I set foot on the island's shores, I was greeted by an overwhelming sense of peace and tranquility that I had not expected.

Bornholm was not my typical destination – I was more accustomed to bustling cities and crowded places. It was my first time visiting Denmark in general.
However, as I began to explore the island and interact with its residents, I quickly realized that I had stumbled upon something truly special – a place where tranquility, happiness, and a sense of community reigned supreme.

During my time on Bornholm, I couldn't help but notice how relaxed and content the people seemed to be.
The neighbors of my bnb as well as people working in shops and restaurants - even though it was summer season and the island was visited by lots of people, everyone I met seemed so calm, relaxed, friendly and in a good mood. It was as if the stresses of the outside world simply melted away in the presence of Bornholm's natural beauty and warm community spirit.

So I started to point out to residents, that the mood and atmosphere on the island is remarkable. People knew, and they were very proud of it.

Bornholm’s atmosphere

What played a huge part when it comes to the peaceful atmosphere is, that even though it was mid-season and all the ferry tickets were sold out for weeks - the island was not flooded with tourists. The beautiful coastlines are not plastered with huge hotels that ruin the landscape and the view of the ocean. Bornholm itself is not heavily populated, so even though it is a small island, there a still so many spots where nature is completely untouched.

Bornholm was the very first time, I truely had a feeling of being away from my everyday life. Of being far away, where there’s nothing to do for me, but exploring in island in the middle of the Baltic sea.

As if someone flipped a switch as soon as I entered the island, stress and problems seemed far away and I started slowing down and appreciating the beauty of the present moment.
Taking time to detach from your everyday life and simply go with the energy of the island is great for loading batteries.

Whenever life gets stressful, I try to remind myself of the sense of peace, gratitude, and contentment – things I appreciated most on Bornholm.

Interacting with the residents was a great experience, since each of them was aware of the little paradise they live in. They valued how they lived together in those small town communities and many said, that they would not trade against a busy big city life. Wealth or status is not what brings true happiness. For the people I met on Bornholm, it was the simplicity, the community and harmony that keeps them going.

That very special feeling the island had given me, made me visit Bornholm again - even though I still struggle with taking longer trips on ferries.
I am not able to make people overcome their anxieties, but I gathered some tips, for people struggling with the same problems: Tips against sea sickness.

Bornholm holds a special place in my heart

I was overwhelmed with how beautiful the landscape really is. The high cliffs and wide fiedls, the small towns where colorful flowers line the pathways and the many, many spots you can watch the sunset from - the sheer beauty is stunning.
To the peaceful scenery comes the warmth of its people. The connections I made there have left a lasting impression on me.
Against the stereotype that Danes do not like smalltalks - I met so many nice people. Much friendlier even, than I am used to.
People seemed positive and were always willing to help out a stranger.

The memories I gathered on Bornholm, will always hold a special place in my heart and I often find myself longing for another trip.

Whenever life is busy - I think back of what people told me, about the simple things they valued and that you often find happiness in the smallest things.