Hammerhavn - Harbour by Hammershus
Hammerhavn is a picturesque yacht harbour situated in the bay of Sænebugt, at the foot of the mighty Hammeren massif, right next to the ruins of Hammershus – the largest medieval fortress in Scandinavia. It is one of the most atmospheric places to moor on Bornholm, surrounded by granite cliffs, rolling hills and the wild nature of the island's northern tip.
Good to know
- Harbour at the foot of Hammershus – the largest medieval castle in Scandinavia
- Coordinates: 55°16'50N 014°45'40E
- Berths for approx. 60 yachts, max. depth 3.5 m
A Harbour in the Shadow of Hammershus
Hammerhavn is a small but well-equipped yacht and tourist harbour, and an excellent base for exploring north-western Bornholm. Once a granite export port, today it serves as a sailing haven set in one of the most beautiful landscapes on the island.
Characteristics and Access
Approach on course 075°, guided by a sector light: white, in the sector from 73° to 77°.
Maximum depth in the harbour: 3.5 m.
Berths for approx. 60 boats – mooring alongside the quay or rafted to other yachts.
In strong winds from NW–SW directions, entering the harbour is dangerous due to heavy swell.
In strong NW winds, a current of up to 1 knot runs southward along the shore – exercise particular caution.
Infrastructure and Facilities
Full sanitary facilities: toilets, showers, laundry.
230 V electricity and water available on the quay.
Kiosk with snacks and beverages.
Slipway for launching boats.
Wi-Fi access.
A small beach by the harbour, ideal for swimming on warm days.
Nearby Attractions
Hammershus Ruins – a medieval castle built in the mid-13th century by Archbishop Jakob Erlandsen of Lund. Abandoned after 1743, protected since 1822.
Hammeren – hills with hiking trails and panoramic views over the Baltic Sea.
Hammer Fyr (1872) – a historic lighthouse with a panoramic view of the sea.
Hammerodde Fyr (1895) – a younger lighthouse at the northern tip of Bornholm.
Opalsø and Våde Ovn – former quarries, caves and spots for climbing and recreation.
Boat trips along the cliffs and into the sea caves.
Safety
The harbour holds "Sikker Havn" (Safe Harbour) status – equipped with rescue equipment and safety measures.
Entry conditions require particular caution in strong winds from the western sector (NW–SW) due to swell and coastal currents.
History
The bay of Sænebugt has been used since prehistoric times – Iron Age graves and remains of medieval buildings and quays have been discovered here.
In the Middle Ages, the bay served as a natural anchorage supporting Hammershus Castle. With the castle's decline, the bay's importance diminished until the late 19th century.
1891 – the company Granitverk built a port for exporting stone from the quarries on Hammeren.
1915 – the port was taken over by the state.
1971 – granite quarrying ceased, and the port lost its industrial function.
1980–81 and 2002–03 – major renovations and modernisations converting the port for yacht and tourism use.
Today, Hammerhavn serves as a yacht and tourist harbour, and an excellent base for visiting the Hammershus ruins and the Hammeren massif.
