Chrisiansö and Bornholm
Only the Endeavour could have brought us such a day as we have had today. Although the weather looked questionable in the morning, our expedition leader, Tom O’Brien, made the decision to try to land at Christiansö and Frederiksö, the two small islands which were our scheduled stop. Fortunately we not only went ashore, thanks to our excellent team of Zodiac drivers, but the weather cleared so that our time on shore was spent in wonderful sunlight. A nature walk and a historical stroll were offered and formed the excuse for the real spectacular of the day – the islands themselves. What a glorious outing on these little gems stick out in the Baltic sea!
After lunch on board we went to Bornholm. The rolling hills and emphasis on agriculture may have surprised some of us but the beautiful, well-kept farms were a delight to see. We visited St. Olaf’s, which dates from the mid-twelfth century, and is one of the four round churches on the island. From there, we motored to Hammershus, the largest fortress ruins in Scandinavia. The buildings date back to a controversy between church and state in the twelfth century.
Late in the afternoon we were treated to smoked mackerel before returning to Gudhjem where we rejoined the Endeavour. After a lively recap and a fine dinner, we saw the preview of Nick’s video chronicle of our voyage together. The video was first-rate and Nick received great praise for his efforts.
Late night revelers populated the bar while the rest of took to our cabins for the night.
Only the Endeavour could have brought us such a day as we have had today. Although the weather looked questionable in the morning, our expedition leader, Tom O’Brien, made the decision to try to land at Christiansö and Frederiksö, the two small islands which were our scheduled stop. Fortunately we not only went ashore, thanks to our excellent team of Zodiac drivers, but the weather cleared so that our time on shore was spent in wonderful sunlight. A nature walk and a historical stroll were offered and formed the excuse for the real spectacular of the day – the islands themselves. What a glorious outing on these little gems stick out in the Baltic sea!
After lunch on board we went to Bornholm. The rolling hills and emphasis on agriculture may have surprised some of us but the beautiful, well-kept farms were a delight to see. We visited St. Olaf’s, which dates from the mid-twelfth century, and is one of the four round churches on the island. From there, we motored to Hammershus, the largest fortress ruins in Scandinavia. The buildings date back to a controversy between church and state in the twelfth century.
Late in the afternoon we were treated to smoked mackerel before returning to Gudhjem where we rejoined the Endeavour. After a lively recap and a fine dinner, we saw the preview of Nick’s video chronicle of our voyage together. The video was first-rate and Nick received great praise for his efforts.
Late night revelers populated the bar while the rest of took to our cabins for the night.
