Nestled along the breathtaking coastline between Allinge and the majestic ruins of Hammershus Castle, lies the intriguing Våde Ovn (Wet Oven)—a hidden gem of a sea cave that has captured the imagination of locals and tourists alike. Shrouded in mystery and steeped in magical folklore, this natural wonder is a testament to the enchanting power of nature and the captivating stories that have been woven around it. 

Våde Ovn, which translates to \”Wet Oven,\” is a captivating sea cave located on the picturesque Bornholm Island. Formed from the erosion of sea waves, the cave features a narrow yet high structure with a lenticular or triangular profile. With an alleged length of 70 meters, Våde Ovn is considered the longest cave in Denmark.

Accessible only by boat, the journey to Våde Ovn is a thrilling adventure in itself, with the Hammerhavnens Bådfart offering daily excursions during the summer months, allowing visitors to venture inside the cave and experience its mystical allure up close.

From tales of hidden treasure to accounts of powerful sorcerers, the allure of Våde Ovn continues to enthrall all who venture to this remarkable location. As we explore the fascinating history and cultural significance of this extraordinary sea cave, prepare to be transported to a world of wonder and intrigue, where the line between myth and reality becomes beautifully blurred.

An Introduction to Våde Ovn

As you approach the entrance of the cave, you\’ll be struck by the sheer height and narrowness of this unique geological formation. With its lenticular or triangular profile, the cave\’s interior is a testament to the incredible power of the sea waves that have carved through the granite rock over the centuries.

Once inside, you\’ll be greeted by a fascinating world of stalactites and stalagmites, formed by the slow dripping of water through the cave system. The cave\’s walls are adorned with otherworldly mineral deposits, creating a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere.

The cave is partially flooded by seawater, adding an extra layer of excitement to your exploration. As you venture deeper into the cave, you\’ll need to navigate through the water, which can range from ankle-deep to waist-deep, depending on the tide levels.

Bornholm Island’s Rich Culture and Local Myths

While exploring Våde Ovn is a thrilling experience in itself, it\’s also worth immersing yourself in the rich culture and local myths that permeate the island of Bornholm. The islanders have their own distinct dialect and a vibrant culture that is deeply rooted in local legends and folklore.

Many of these stories are centered around the island\’s unique landscape, and the mysterious caves and rock formations that dot its shores. As you traverse the island, you\’ll find yourself immersed in a world of ancient tales and legends, which only serve to enhance the already captivating beauty of Bornholm.

The Origins of Hammer Harbour: A Way to Sail into Våde Ovn

When stonemasons first embarked on the ambitious project of building Hammerhus, they were met with an unexpected challenge: the subterranean creatures that inhabited Bornholm\’s underground landscape. Believed to be tiny trolls, gnomes, or spirits, these creatures fiercely protected their territory and thwarted all initial attempts to construct the castle.

To appease the subterranean beings and find the perfect location for the castle, the stonemasons resorted to an unusual solution. They tied two stallions together with a single rope and released them into the wild. The spot where the tired stallions chose to rest would be the chosen site for the castle.

As fate would have it, this method worked, and the construction of the castle finally began in earnest. However, the story doesn\’t end there. The building process took place so rapidly that locals couldn\’t help but suspect that the subterranean creatures were lending their magical assistance during the night, while the stonemasons slept.

The Power of Man: A Human Sacrifice

The stonemasons, aware that they couldn\’t rely solely on the magic of the subterranean creatures, decided to take a bold and extraordinary step. They chose a living man and walled him inside the castle, effectively transferring the power of man into the very foundations of the structure. This act of sacrifice served to negate the magical influence of the creatures and ensure that the castle stood strong for generations to come.

Hammerhavnens Bådfart: A Voyage Along the Rocky Coast

For those seeking a bit more adventure, Hammerhavnens Bådfart offers exciting boat trips along the rugged coastline at the foot of Hammershus. As you sail through the coastal waters, you will be captivated by the stunning cliffs and rock formations that make this area so special. If the sea is calm, you may even have the opportunity to sail into the narrow rock cave, Våde Ovn. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is not to be missed!

Nearby Attraction: The Historic Hammershus Castle

Built in 1250, the Hammershus Castle served as a stronghold against marauding Danish kings, strategically situated on a rocky plateau. During its heyday, the fortress was a symbol of power and prestige for the island of Bornholm. Throughout the centuries, several parties fought for control over the Hammershus Castle, ultimately leading to its conversion into a quarry.

In 1822, the Danish government decided to preserve the historic structures, transforming the site into an open-air museum to showcase its rich history. Today, visitors can explore the castle ruins and marvel at the imposing walls, towers, and gates that once stood as a bastion of defense. 

The stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Baltic Sea further enhance the experience, making Hammershus Castle a must-visit attraction for history and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Hammershus Castle and Vade Ovn Cave are just two of the many attractions to be found on the beautiful island of Bornholm. Visitors can also explore the Slotslyngen woodland, one of Denmark\’s most dramatic and captivating ecosystems. The lush forest is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

Additionally, Bornholm boasts a rich culinary scene, offering a wide array of traditional Danish dishes and local delicacies. From freshly caught seafood to mouth-watering pastries, foodies will find plenty to indulge in during their visit to the island.

The Bottom Line

Steeped in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes, the Hammershus Castle and Vade Ovn Cave offer a one-of-a-kind adventure for travelers looking to explore Denmark\’s rich past and natural wonders. 

Whether you choose to tour the castle ruins, paddle through the mystic Vade Ovn Cave, or wander through the enchanting Slotslyngen woodland, a visit to this captivating region is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Are you looking for the best boat rental packages in Bornholm? Look no further than Bornholms Badfart! Whether you’re looking for a leisurely day out on the water or a more adventurous outing, our boat rental packages have you covered. Contact us today!