Helligpeder and Teglkås – two small settlements on Bornholm’s west coast

Harbour, fishing and smokehouses

The harbours in Helligpeder and Teglkås are small, yet they once played an important role in local fishing. Teglkås has been developing as a fishing settlement since the 19th century, and in the 1930s around 20 professional fishermen worked here, mainly catching herring and cod. Today, the harbour in Teglkås is used primarily by small recreational boats – yachts and leisure craft – and the new outer breakwater also serves as a popular bathing jetty.

Helligpeder

Helligpeder is a small fishing and leisure harbour of significant cultural value – it is surrounded by former fishermen’s cottages, small harbour sheds and the remains of traditional smokehouses, all of which help preserve the historical layout of the settlement. The harbour is intended mainly for small boats with shallow draught, but it also provides a few guest berths.

The coastline near Helligpeder

The entire stretch of coastline around Helligpeder is highly valued by sea anglers – especially for its sea trout spots. The seabed is shaped by large boulders, a gravel-and-stone shore, belts of seaweed and sandbanks, creating excellent feeding grounds. Some sections are subject to seasonal fishing restrictions related to the protection of fish near the mouth of the Kæmpeå stream, so it is worth checking current regulations before fishing.

Smokehouses in the Helligpeder and Teglkås area

In Helligpeder there were four smokehouses (røgerier) – the buildings and their distinctive chimneys can still be seen near the harbour. One of them, known as Peter Finnes Røgeri, was built in the 1880s, making it one of the oldest of its kind on the island.

In Teglkås there were also smokehouses – records mention two smokehouses dating from around 1900, both in operation until the 1960s.

Although none of the smokehouses operate today, the preserved buildings remain an important part of the local cultural heritage and add character to the coastal landscape.

These small smokehouse buildings, with their characteristic chimneys, are a charming reminder of a time when fishing and fish processing formed the backbone of the economy in these coastal communities.

Why stop in Helligpeder and Teglkås

Thanks to their combination of easy access, little traffic and unique geological formations, Helligpeder and Teglkås are ideal places for a short break, a scenic rest stop or the starting point for one of the most beautiful walks on Bornholm’s west coast.

Cycling from Rønne to Vang

The stretch of coastline between Helligpeder and Teglkås is one of the most attractive sections of the western coast, both scenically and recreationally. If you are cycling from Rønne to Vang, this route offers a natural, wonderfully scenic stop – the quiet coastal road provides excellent sea views and leads through some of the most characteristic rocky landscapes on the island.

By car

This is also a great option for travellers exploring the island by car. Both settlements have convenient small parking areas by the harbours, making them a perfect starting point for a short but beautiful walk towards Jons Kapel. The cliff-top walk from Helligpeder to Jons Kapel is significantly quieter than the route from Vang, and the path offers wide views and close contact with the rugged, almost untouched coastline.

What to see in the area

Jons Kapel

One of the most spectacular rock formations on Bornholm. High cliffs, a steep descent to the "pulpit" and a local legend about the monk Jon make this an essential stop. The best way to reach it is on foot from Helligpeder or Teglkås along the scenic coastal path.

Vang Pier and the quarries

A few kilometres to the north lies Vang – a former fishing settlement known today for the granite Vang Pier and the landscape shaped by old stone quarries. It is a great place for a walk, a picnic or simply enjoying the rugged scenery of the north-western coast.

Hasle Smokehouse

To the south of Helligpeder lies Hasle, home to one of the oldest and best-known smokehouses on Bornholm. It is an excellent place to try traditional smoked fish and experience the atmosphere of old fishing communities.