A new wooden pavilion designed to promote outdoor activities and nature access has opened at the highest point of Bornholm Island in Denmark. The Trailcenter Rytterknægten, designed by Matters architects and completed in 2023, stands 162 meters above sea level in the heart of Almindingen, Denmark's third-largest forest.
The 100-square-meter pavilion is part of the nationwide Danish Trailcentres initiative, a program designed to encourage outdoor recreation and improve access to natural areas across the country. The project was initiated by DIF (Danish Sports Confederation) and Lokale & Anlægsfonden (Local & Facility Foundation) in collaboration with Bornholm's regional municipality. Originally designed in 2021, the structure was built and opened to the public in 2023.
The facility is carefully positioned among forest trees and elevated gently above the forest floor, accessed via a sloped ramp to minimize environmental impact. The pavilion includes comprehensive amenities designed to serve a diverse range of users, from casual day visitors to organized groups. These facilities include an outdoor kitchen, a comfortable living room area with a fireplace, a dedicated bike repair station, equipment storage spaces, and an information center providing details about local trails and natural features.
Sustainability guided every aspect of the project's development, from initial planning through construction and ongoing operations. The architects prioritized environmentally responsible building practices, using locally sourced timber from nearby sawmills and implementing gentle construction methods that preserve the surrounding forest ecosystem. In a notable example of resource conservation, wooden steps from the old neighboring Rytterknægten Tower were repurposed as benches and tables within the new facility.
The design philosophy emphasizes creating a natural and intuitive movement pattern through the landscape, where visitor curiosity is sparked and exploration of the surroundings is actively encouraged. Rather than dominating the natural environment, the architecture supports and enhances the existing landscape, creating a harmonious balance between human activity and environmental preservation. Many of the structural joints are specifically designed for future disassembly, making it easier to recycle materials when the building eventually reaches the end of its useful life.
Accessibility and inclusion formed core principles throughout the project's development. The trail center is designed to welcome everyone regardless of background, age, physical ability, or outdoor experience level. Special attention was given to creating an inspiring and engaging environment for children and families, with exciting trail connections, age-appropriate facilities, and educational elements designed to spark curiosity and encourage active learning and discovery in natural settings.
The pavilion's modular layout and emphasis on movement, rest, and social gathering creates an inclusive experience that connects visitors more deeply with the forest landscape. By introducing children to forest environments early in life, the facility aims to foster lifelong connections to nature and develop deep respect for environmental conservation. The careful planning has demonstrably impacted how the forest is accessed and used, allowing more people to gain meaningful access while simultaneously protecting the delicate ecosystem.
This thoughtful approach to building in natural environments represents a broader philosophy of sustainable outdoor recreation infrastructure. The project demonstrates how well-designed facilities can promote physical activity, build community connections, and foster more responsible relationships with nature. Such infrastructure creates the foundation for both environmental sustainability and social well-being, proving that increased access and environmental protection can coexist when properly balanced through thoughtful design and implementation.
