TRAILCENTER RYTTERKNÆGTEN
Trailcenter Rytterknægten is part of the nationwide initiative Danish Trailcentres – buildings designed to promote outdoor activity and nature access across Denmark.
Designed by Matters in 2021, built 2025, the project was initiated by DIF and Lokale & Anlægsfonden, in collaboration with Bornholm’s regional municipality. Trailcenter Rytterknægten is located at the highest point in Bornholm, 162 meters above sea level, in the heart of Almindingen – Denmark’s third largest forest. The pavilion offers visitors unique access to the island’s diverse terrain and rich biodiversity through a series of scenic viewpoints and recreational zones.
The 100 m² wooden pavilion is lifted gently above the forest floor and accessed via a sloped ramp. It includes amenities such as an outdoor kitchen, living room with fireplace, bike repair area, equipment storage, and an information point – all designed to support a broad range of users, from casual visitors to organised groups.
With its modular layout and emphasis on movement, rest, and gathering, the structure encourages an inclusive and engaging experience of the forest landscape.
The trailcenter is discreetly tucked away among the forest trees and is designed to create a natural and intuitive movement through the landscape, where curiosity is sparked and the desire to explore the surroundings is encouraged.
The project represents a thoughtful approach to building in nature with care and respect. Here, architecture plays an important role in uniting human activity with the natural environment. Rather than dominating the landscape, the design supports and enhances it – creating a place that promotes a sustainable way of moving through the forest.
The careful planning has had a clear impact on how the forest is accessed and used – more people gain access, but in a way that protects the environment. Sustainability has been a guiding principle throughout the entire project – from the choice of materials and gentle construction methods to the smallest details.
For example, timber steps from the old neighbouring Rytterknægten Tower have been reused as benches and tables. The wood comes from the local sawmill, and many of the joints are designed for disassembly to make it easier to recycle materials in the future.
Equally important is the project’s focus on inclusion. The trailcenter is open and accessible to everyone – regardless of background, age, ability, or experience. Special efforts have been made to create an inspiring environment for children and families, with exciting trails, facilities, and educational elements that spark curiosity and encourage play, learning, and discovery in nature. By introducing children to the forest early on, a lifelong connection to nature and a deep respect for it is fostered. Danish nature needs more protection – but also for us as humans to experience it and understand its value. It is in the balance between access and care that we can create space for both people and biodiversity.
This inclusive approach is part of the project’s overall goal: to make outdoor life more accessible and attractive through thoughtful, well-functioning facilities. Infrastructure like this promotes physical activity, community, and a more responsible relationship with nature – laying the foundation for both environmental and social sustainability.
