Exploring Christiansø: A 17th Century Naval Fortress

In June 2020, I had the pleasure of joining my colleagues for a two-day work outing to the Ertholmene archipelago. You may not be familiar with Ertholmene or its two main islands, Christiansø and Frederiksø, as they often fade into the shadow of their larger neighbor, Bornholm. However, a local ferry operates almost daily from Gudhjem on Bornholm to Christiansø, and I assure you, it’s well worth the trip!

The Ertholmene archipelago, often simply referred to as Christiansø, is not only a picturesque cluster of islands but also a historic naval fortress dating back to the 17th century. The archipelago has a rich history; it was established as a military outpost in 1684 to protect Denmark from naval threats and has served various roles over the centuries, including a bird sanctuary. The unique ecosystem supports numerous bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

In recent years, local administration—operating under the Danish Ministry of Defence—has worked diligently to transform Christiansø into a tourist-friendly destination. While it is possible to spend the night on the island, most visitors typically enjoy a few hours before returning to Bornholm.

On my previous visit to Christiansø, I only had a few fleeting hours to explore. Therefore, this time I was excited to stay overnight, allowing me to capture both the sunset and sunrise—though it meant sacrificing quite a bit of sleep! Fueled by a Monster energy drink, I managed to photograph both, joined by some colleagues eager to document the stunning scenery with their cameras.

To top it off, the local administration granted special permission for drone flights over the island. Concerned about disturbing the birds, I opted to fly a bit higher than usual, which rewarded me with breathtaking aerial views of the area.

If you find yourself on Bornholm, I wholeheartedly recommend taking the ferry from Gudhjem to Christiansø. It’s the perfect day trip, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to immerse yourself in the island’s tranquil atmosphere.