Jons Kapel – the legendary cliff chapel of Bornholm

The legend of Jon – a preacher on the cliff

According to an old Bornholm legend, Jon came to the island to convert its inhabitants to Christianity. He settled in a natural cave at the foot of the cliff – a place now known as Jons Kirken (Jon's Church). Curious locals came down to hear his stories from the Bible. Jon welcomed them warmly and told tales that quickly attracted an ever-growing audience.

When the cave became too cramped, Jon moved outside and climbed a rocky ledge resembling a pulpit – Prædikestolen (the Pulpit). From there he addressed the gathered crowd, his voice carrying over the sea. It is this distinctive rock outcrop, visible from afar, that remains the most recognisable feature of Jons Kapel today.

What is a "dry oven"?

The "chapel" itself is what geologists call a tør ovn – a "dry oven". It is a sea cave formed by centuries of waves battering the cliff, which ended up above the current waterline as the sea level dropped. Jons Kapel is the largest and most famous of these caves on Bornholm, but three smaller "dry ovens" are hidden nearby along the rocky shoreline – finding them takes a keen eye and a sense of adventure.

Steps, cliffs and views – what to see

Steep steps cut into a former diabase vein in the rock lead down to the beach at the foot of Jons Kapel. How many steps are there exactly? That is one of Bornholm's minor debates – some count 108, others 168, and yet others 172. One thing is certain: the descent is steep and requires reasonable fitness, but the reward of seeing the mighty cliffs from below is absolutely worth it.

At the bottom, a rugged, stony shore unfolds with views of Prædikestolen – Jon's rocky "pulpit" – and the open sea. It is one of the best spots on the island for landscape photography, especially in the afternoon, when the western sun bathes the cliff walls in warm, golden light.

Jons Kapel – view of the cliffs and the Pulpit

Hiking trail – Sporet ved Jons Kapel

A short but beautiful loop trail of about 3 km has been laid out around Jons Kapel, taking roughly one hour. The route starts from the car park on Jons Kapelvej and follows the coastal path (Kyststien) northwards before turning inland towards one of the island's most beautiful rift valleys.

Blåskinsdalen – the Blue Anemone Valley

Blåskinsdalen is the hidden gem of the trail – a narrow, shaded valley overgrown with lush ferns and ivy winding up the tree trunks. In spring (April–May) its floor is carpeted with blue anemones, which give the valley its name. The atmosphere is almost fairy-tale – a narrow path winds between mossy rocks, fallen trunks and roots, creating the impression of walking through a jungle.

The return leg follows a field track along an impressive stone wall. Just before reaching the main road, it is worth turning into the woods – an old stone formation is hidden there, probably a former tingsted (assembly site) – a fascinating trace of Bornholm's history.