Døndalen, Protected nature valley in Bornholm, Denmark
Døndalen is a protected nature valley in Bornholm featuring Denmark's tallest waterfall, which drops 20 meters across multiple rocky levels through dense forest. The valley spreads across terraced areas and contains extensive woodlands with varied plant and animal life.
The Danish Nature Foundation purchased around 37 hectares of this valley in 1969 and designated it as a protected conservation area. This acquisition secured the site for future generations and reflected early efforts to safeguard this distinctive landscape.
The name Døndalen comes from the Bornholm dialect, where 'dønner' describes the roaring sound of water during spring snowmelt. This reflects how locals have understood and named this natural feature through the ages.
A roughly one-kilometer path connects the parking area at Søndre Strandvej 144 in Gudhjem to the waterfall, offering a straightforward route to navigate. The paths are natural ground and may become slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear and unhurried pacing work well for a comfortable visit.
Each spring, white wood anemones and wild garlic carpet the valley floor before the tree canopy fully develops and hides these flowers again. This brief flowering period draws many visitors who want to see this seasonal display before it vanishes.
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