Moseløkken Quarry

Moseløkken Quarry

Moseløkken is the last active hammer granite quarry on Bornholm, set in a forested area between Allinge and Sandvig, right next to the ruins of Hammershus Castle. It is a place that combines over 160 years of stone-cutting tradition with excellent conditions for outdoor activities – climbing on steep granite walls, hiking along forest trails, and cycling through the scenic north of Bornholm.

The Quarry – An Impressive Excavation

Moseløkken is one of the few quarries on Bornholm where extraction work is still carried out periodically. When no work is underway, you can descend to the very bottom of the enormous pit and stand face to face with vertical walls of solid granite, reaching several dozen metres high. The sight is truly impressive – the raw, smooth rock faces expose geological structures billions of years old. From the forest path running along the northeast edge of the quarry, there is a panoramic view over the entire excavation and beyond – to Bornholm's east coast, as far as Bokulbjerget hill and the Ertholmene archipelago on the horizon.

Moseløkken Quarry Museum
Moseløkken Quarry Museum

Rock Climbing

The steep, vertical granite walls of Moseløkken attract climbers from across Scandinavia. The quarry offers varied climbing routes – from easier ones suitable for beginners to demanding overhangs for experienced athletes. The hard surface of the hammer granite provides a secure grip, and the height of the walls allows for multi-pitch ascents. Climbing is only possible during periods when no extraction work is taking place – it is worth checking the current status before visiting.

Hiking Trails and Viewpoints

The area around Moseløkken is an excellent starting point for hikes through Slotslyngen – the vast forested terrain surrounding Hammershus. The trails lead through mixed forests, heathlands, and along the edges of coastal cliffs. Particularly recommended routes:

  • Moseløkken – Hammershus – a short, scenic walk (approx. 15 minutes) along a forest path to the largest castle ruins in Scandinavia
  • Slotslyngen loop – a longer route (approx. 5 km) through Finnedalen forest, past the Pissebækken waterfall, and back through the Borrelyngen heathlands
  • Coastal path (Kyststien) – stretches of coastline from Sandvig to Allinge, with views of cliffs, the sea, and rocky coves

Cycling Routes

Cycling to Moseløkken from Allinge or Sandvig is easy and pleasant – the route follows quiet roads through the forest. The quarry lies on cycle route no. 10 (Bornholm Rundt), so it can be incorporated into a longer tour around the island. Nearby, there is also a route between Allinge and Hammershus, ideal for a family outing.

Quarry Museum

Next to the quarry stands Moseløkken Stenbrudsmuseum – the only active stone-cutting museum on Bornholm, run by retired stonemasons. Here you can try working with granite yourself, watch demonstrations of stone splitting, and learn about the history of Bornholm's stone industry.

View over Moseløkken quarry from above Panorama of Moseløkken quarry – the last active hammer granite excavation
Good to know about Moseløkken
  • The quarry was founded in the 1860s – it is the last active hammer granite quarry on Bornholm
  • Granite from here was used for the Carlsberg elephants, the columns of the National Museum, and the portal of Christiansborg
  • The steep walls of the pit are a popular climbing destination – various difficulty levels are available
  • The walk to Hammershus ruins takes about 15 minutes on foot
  • Surrounding trails lead through Slotslyngen forest with views of the Baltic Sea
  • Admission to the quarry grounds is free (museum admission charged separately)

Location

Moseløkken Stenbrud
Moseløkkevej 9, 3770 Allinge
Between Allinge and Sandvig, adjacent to Hammershus
Parking at Slotslyngvej (road to Hammershus) – approx. 10 min walk from there
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