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Stammershalle Badehotel is nestled between Gudhjem and Tejn (Bornholm, Denmark ) – perched above the raw cliffs of the Baltic Sea, with the iconic Helligdomsklipperne rock formations as its neighbour. In recent years, the hotel has embraced both its historic roots and a clear ambition to grow year-round tourism. The result is new facilities, a more cohesive guest experience, and – not least – a renewed focus on gastronomy.

Just as importantly, the hotel has built a team that, according to Director Susanne Vang Søgård, is the strongest the place has ever had. And the effect is already being felt: “It’s the best start to a season we’ve had since taking over the hotel,” she says.

Both the restaurant and hotel have received praise – but the ambitions don’t stop there. Later this year, the hotel will open a heated saltwater pool, and efforts are well underway to extend the season and welcome guests far beyond the summer months.

Stammershalle Badehotel was originally built in 1911 as a summer residence by a German merchant. In the 1930s, he began flying guests directly from Berlin to Bornholm, where they could enjoy the raw nature and fresh sea air.

Back then, the place was known as “Stammershalde,” and even had its own small zoo with lions and bears — remnants of which can still be seen today. Later, under the Wang-Hansen family’s ownership, it became a beloved destination known for music, food, and dancing — and a cherished spot for locals.

Today, Stammershalle is run by the Falbe-Cardel and Søgård families, who took over the hotel on May 1st, 2021.

Photo, right: Hotel Director Susanne Vang Søgård

Susanne, the season is now well underway. How are things going?

“This has been our best start to a season since we took over the hotel. We’ve assembled the strongest team we’ve ever had – and both we and our guests can feel it. There’s a new calm and energy throughout the hotel. Bookings are also up compared to previous years, and you can really sense the buzz and growing interest across the island.”

How would you describe the experience at Stammershalle to someone who’s never been?

“It should feel like stepping into a time capsule. From the moment you pull into the parking lot, you should feel a sense of calm and something special in the atmosphere. Our goal is to make our guests feel completely at ease – often we anticipate their needs even before they realize them themselves. There’s a strong sense of cohesion throughout the house that shapes the entire experience.

The surrounding nature also plays a major role. It’s peaceful here – you’re not easily disturbed. At the same time, North Bornholm offers so much to explore. We even have our own padel court, and just a short walk away is the sea with a popular jetty that many guests love to swim from.”

Your restaurant has received great praise as well – how important is gastronomy to you?

“Gastronomy is the heart of Stammershalle. It started long before we took over the hotel, so guests arrive with high expectations – and we feel a strong responsibility to live up to that legacy. For us, it’s not just about serving a meal, but about creating a memorable experience that truly matters.

We focus on gourmet experiences rooted in local ingredients. Head chef Loftur Loftsson and pastry chef Emil Vang are masters at showcasing the very best Bornholm has to offer.

All year round, our chefs forage and harvest ingredients from the surrounding nature, and our wine cellar – carved straight into the Bornholm rock – is always open for guests to explore.”

You’re working to extend the season — how is that going?

“Yes, it’s definitely one of our biggest ambitions. Bornholm is truly special outside the high season, when the wind blows and you can take long, peaceful walks before retreating to your room with good food and calm. We’ve designed the rooms so guests actually want to stay there all day — it’s meant to be a complete experience year-round.”

How have you developed the hotel in recent years to support this?

“We’ve renovated large parts of the hotel — everything from new bathrooms to an expanded banquet hall, now twice the size it was before. We’ve hosted fantastic weddings and other celebrations there. We’ve also bought back holiday apartments in the area. And later this year, we’ll be opening a heated saltwater pool.

And that pool is something we’ll return to. But if you could mention just one or two things people must experience on Bornholm this year — what would they be?

“There’s so much to choose from, Jon. Personally, I love the stretch from Gudhjem up through North Bornholm, just like you — it’s pure magic. Experiencing Døndalen is a must. And if I’m to recommend a place to eat, I’ve heard great things about Kadeau’s new pop-up restaurant at Eco Beach. They’re doing really well.”

One of the next big highlights at Stammershalle is their new pool and spa project, set to open later this year. Guests will be able to enjoy a heated saltwater pool with spectacular views of the Baltic Sea and Christiansø. In addition to the pool, the spa area will feature a jacuzzi, sauna, cold-water pool, and steam bath, creating the perfect setting for total relaxation.

Investments like these clearly show that the ambition to extend Bornholm’s tourism season is more than just talk. We look forward to following the construction and seeing how this new offering will enhance the experience for both hotel guests and local visitors alike.

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