Gisseløre gamle fyr
A red-and-white striped beacon from 1868 guiding ships through Denmark's maritime heritage.
Gisseløre gamle fyr is a historic lighthouse located on the southern tip of the Gisseløre peninsula in Kalundborg, Denmark. Built in 1868, this red-and-white striped beacon once guided ships through the waters of the Great Belt. The original lighthouse featured a petroleum lamp that required the lighthouse keeper to row across from Kalundborg to maintain it. Though no longer operational as a primary aid to navigation, the structure remains an iconic landmark representing Denmark's maritime heritage and the region's seafaring traditions.
A brief summary to Gisseløre gamle fyr
- Kalundborg, 4400, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during clear weather for the best views across the Great Belt toward Sejerø and neighboring islands. The lighthouse's distinctive red-and-white stripes are most striking in good light.
- Combine your visit with the summer restaurant on Gisseløre, which offers refreshments and a pleasant setting to absorb the maritime atmosphere of the peninsula.
- Explore the broader Kalundborg area to understand the regional maritime context, including visits to nearby lighthouses such as Røsnæs Fyr and the town's historic harbor district.
- Bring binoculars to observe maritime traffic and bird life in the Great Belt, enhancing your understanding of why this location was strategically important for navigation.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car from Kalundborg town center
Drive south from Kalundborg town center toward the coast, following signs for Gisseløre. The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes by car. Parking is available near the lighthouse and summer restaurant. The road is well-maintained and accessible year-round, though winter conditions may occasionally affect access.
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Bicycle from Kalundborg
Rent a bicycle in Kalundborg and cycle south toward the coast via local routes to Gisseløre. The journey takes approximately 20–30 minutes depending on your starting point and route. The area is relatively flat and suitable for casual cycling. Bicycle parking is available at the site.
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Walking from nearby residential areas
If staying in southern Kalundborg, walking to Gisseløre is feasible, taking approximately 45–60 minutes depending on your starting point. The route follows local roads and paths with varying terrain. Wear appropriate footwear and be aware that some sections may lack dedicated pedestrian paths.
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Local bus service
Public bus services operate from Kalundborg town center to areas near Gisseløre. Journey times typically range from 15–25 minutes depending on the route and number of stops. Service frequency varies seasonally, with reduced schedules in winter months. Check local transit schedules for current timetables and fares.
Gisseløre gamle fyr location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Gisseløre gamle fyr
A Beacon from Denmark's Maritime Past
Gisseløre gamle fyr stands as a testament to Denmark's rich seafaring heritage, perched on the southern promontory of the Gisseløre peninsula in Kalundborg. Constructed in 1868, this distinctive red-and-white striped lighthouse once served as a vital navigational aid for vessels traversing the Great Belt, one of Denmark's most important maritime passages. The lighthouse represents an era when coastal navigation relied entirely on visual signals and the dedication of lighthouse keepers who maintained these beacons through all weather conditions. The original design of Gisseløre gamle fyr reflected the practical demands of 19th-century maritime life. The lighthouse keeper faced the unique challenge of rowing across the water from Kalundborg to reach the beacon, where he would climb the tower to tend the petroleum lamp housed in the lantern room. This daily ritual, weather permitting, was essential for ensuring that ships could safely navigate the treacherous waters surrounding the peninsula. The lamp's warm glow would pierce through fog and darkness, providing reassurance to captains and crews dependent on such markers for safe passage.Evolution and Modernization
As technology advanced, so too did Gisseløre gamle fyr. By the late 1940s, the lighthouse underwent significant modernization with the installation of an electric light system and fog sirens, bringing it into the modern era of automated navigation aids. These upgrades reduced the burden on lighthouse keepers and improved the reliability of the beacon. A smaller, functional lighthouse was subsequently established on the southern point of Gisseløre, which continues to operate under the jurisdiction of maritime authorities. The transition from petroleum lamps to electric systems marked a turning point in the lighthouse's operational history. While the old structure retained its iconic appearance with its distinctive red-and-white paint scheme, the interior mechanisms evolved to meet contemporary maritime standards. The fog sirens added an auditory dimension to the beacon's warning system, particularly valuable during the dense fog conditions that frequently blanket the Great Belt.Historical Significance and Local Heritage
Gisseløre's history extends far beyond the lighthouse itself. The peninsula has been inhabited since medieval times, with evidence suggesting a small fishing settlement existed here long before Esbern Snare founded Kalundborg around the 1170s. The area was originally known as Hærvig, reflecting its importance as a fishing community. During the First World War, a significant maritime artifact—an anchor—was recovered from the waters between Røsnæs Fyr and Sejerø Fyr, a discovery that underscores the strategic importance of these waters during Denmark's neutral period. In 1933, the local town council decided to construct a summer restaurant on Gisseløre, initially without a license to serve strong spirits. This establishment later received a license for full beverage service and became a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant reflects the peninsula's evolution from purely functional maritime infrastructure to a destination that blends historical significance with recreational appeal.Landscape and Setting
The Gisseløre peninsula juts into the Great Belt, creating a dramatic promontory that has shaped both maritime history and local geography. The surrounding landscape offers expansive views across the water toward Sejerø and other islands, with the lighthouse serving as a focal point in the seascape. The area's natural environment, characterized by rocky shores and open water vistas, creates an atmospheric setting that evokes Denmark's maritime traditions. Visitors to the site experience the raw beauty of the Danish coastline and gain perspective on the challenges faced by sailors navigating these waters in earlier centuries.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mindesmærke for Jørgen Manniche
1.0 km
A solemn memorial to an innocent young life lost in the final moments of WWII liberation.
Kalundborg St.
1.0 km
Experience the heart of Helsingborg at Sundstorget, a vibrant square blending history and modernity near the Northern Harbour.
Our Lady Church
1.1 km
A medieval masterpiece with five towers symbolizing the Heavenly Jerusalem—architecturally unique and spiritually profound.
The eltest city hall
1.2 km
A modest medieval town hall in Kalundborg’s Højbyen, where centuries of local power, trade and everyday life still echo in cobbled streets and weathered walls.
Kalundborg Slot
1.2 km
An invisible castle at the centre of Kalundborg, where streets, stories and subtle traces reveal the outline of a vanished medieval stronghold.
Danhostel Kalundborg
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Helsingborg at Sundstorget, where culture, dining, and shopping converge in a picturesque square.
Lerchenborg Gods
1.8 km
An impeccably symmetrical Baroque–Rococo manor near Kalundborg, where preserved architecture, parkland and quiet countryside evoke centuries of Danish noble life.
Befrielsessten i Kallerup
5.9 km
A solemn Danish liberation memorial honoring the end of Nazi occupation in May 1945.
Træ-cirklerne ved Birkendegård
7.3 km
Subtle traces in the fields east of Kalundborg reveal a vast Neolithic ring monument, Denmark’s “Stonehenge”, encircling the hill of Overdrevsbakken.
Landmarket Horsedalen
9.1 km
Rare flora and exceptional light in a protected Danish valley.
Stendysse ved Blæsinge
27.8 km
A modest Neolithic stone tomb in the fields near Blæsinge, offering a quiet roadside glimpse into western Zealand’s Stone Age landscape and rituals.
Breddysse Stones
28.1 km
A modest Neolithic dolmen in the fields near Slagelse, where ancient burial stones, open skies, and quiet farmland meet in a quietly powerful landscape.
RAF Memorial Stone
28.2 km
Small rural monument, big wartime story: a quiet Danish field where seven RAF airmen are remembered with a single steadfast stone.
Ballen Strandpark - Ferielejligheder og feriehus
31.7 km
Experience coastal bliss at Ballen Strandpark on Samsø: stunning sea views, direct beach access, and charming apartments near Ballen harbor, perfect for a relaxing island getaway.
The small Summer Hotel
32.0 km
Experience authentic Danish seaside charm at The Small Summer Hotel in Ballen, Samsø, offering cozy accommodations and a perfect base for exploring the island's natural beauty and vibrant culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Bishop's House
1.2 km
Historic bishop’s residence turned intimate art venue, where medieval brickwork, vaulted cellars and changing exhibitions bring Kalundborg’s past into quiet focus.
Højbyen Kalundborg
1.2 km
Medieval Kalundborg on a hilltop: a lens-shaped upper town of cobbles, colorful houses and a unique five-towered church overlooking the fjord.
Kalundborg Museum
1.2 km
Intimate town museum in historic Kalundborg, uncovering western Zealand’s medieval, Viking and crusader past through atmospheric rooms and focused exhibitions.
Vestborgen
1.2 km
Grassy ramparts, low stone traces and harbor views tell the quiet story of Esbern Snare’s vanished 12th‑century fortress above medieval Kalundborg.
Kalundborg Rocker
1.3 km
Open-air rock and pop festival on Kalundborg’s Gisseløre peninsula, where coastal views, radio masts and big-stage sound merge into one high-energy summer weekend.
Postgaarden Kalundborg Event og Musikhus
1.3 km
Historic post house turned modern event hub, Postgaarden is Kalundborg’s go-to address for comedy, concerts and celebrations on lively Kordilgade.
Kalundborg Local Library
1.3 km
Preserve and explore Kalundborg's rich medieval heritage through centuries of local documents and historical collections.
Solskinspladsen, Kordilgade
1.3 km
A small sunlit square on Kalundborg’s main street, Solskinspladsen swaps a vanished town house for cobbles, daylight and an easy pause between shops and hillside.
Kaalund Monastery
1.3 km
A warm yellow former monastery in Kalundborg’s High Town, where 13th‑century Franciscan roots meet an 18th‑century manor façade and today’s civic life.
Mindesmærke for Ove Rode
1.3 km
A life‑size bronze bust of statesman Ove Rode crowns Kalundborg’s Møllebakketrappen, blending political memory, pocket‑park calm and sweeping views over town and harbour.
Befrielsessten i Kalundborg
1.4 km
Experience Denmark’s maritime heritage at Dragør Havn, where colorful historic cottages and a lively fishing harbor offer authentic coastal charm near Copenhagen.
Gryden
1.4 km
A small green amphitheatre tucked into Møllebakken’s slopes, where Kalundborg’s everyday park life meets open-air concerts and quiet hillside views.
1501 Klosterparken
1.5 km
Discover the atmospheric Røsnæs Strandpark Jættestue, a Neolithic burial chamber set in scenic coastal meadows near Kalundborg, where ancient history meets wild Nordic landscapes.
Vandtårnet på Møllebakken
1.6 km
Historic red water tower crowning Kalundborg’s former mill hill, offering green parkland and sweeping views over the medieval town and Kalundborg Fjord.
Befrielsessten i Årby
3.2 km
Quietly honoring Danish statesman Ove Rode, this hilltop memorial offers reflective space and panoramic views in the heart of historic Kalundborg.
Essential places to dine
Asgers bar
0.9 km
Harborfront sourdough pizzas, cocktails and Italian-inspired comfort food in an intimate, modern bar with views over Kalundborg’s marina and Vor Frue Kirke.
Asgers Fisk
0.9 km
Harbourside fishmonger and casual seafood café in Kalundborg, serving fresh Danish-style fish plates and sharing platters just steps from the marina’s edge.
HavneGrillen 4400
0.9 km
Harbourfront grillbar in Kalundborg serving classic Danish fast food, hearty portions and gluten-free options with salty sea air and working-port views.
Mysteriøs Middagsmåltid
0.9 km
Intimate harbor-side restaurant in Kalundborg serving seasonal Danish cuisine with a playful, “mysterious” set-menu twist in a cozy Nordic setting.
Den Blå Elefant - Streetfood & Cafe
0.9 km
Cozy Thai streetfood and café flavors meet wide harbor views at this relaxed waterfront spot in the heart of Kalundborg.
Havkatten
1.0 km
Experience authentic Danish hospitality at Havkatten, Kalundborg's cozy pub offering local beers and a vibrant atmosphere.
Tony's Pizza & Grill
1.0 km
Casual pizza and grill spot serving affordable fast food with late-night hours in central Kalundborg.
Kalundborg Halls Restaurant
1.2 km
Casual, family-friendly dining inside Kalundborg’s sports halls, serving hearty Danish-style buffets and simple classics for teams, groups and everyday meals.
Byens Pizza og Grillbar
1.2 km
Casual neighborhood pizzeria serving wood-fired pizzas, kebabs, and grilled specialties with friendly service and fair prices.
Grillen I Vænget
1.2 km
Casual neighborhood grill in Kalundborg serving classic Danish barbecue favorites, ideal for a quick weekday lunch, early dinner or easy takeaway stop.
Bangkok-Thai Restaurant
1.2 km
Unfussy Thai comfort food and speedy takeaway in a cosy, central Kalundborg setting close to the harbour and historic town streets.
Restaurant Gisseløre
1.2 km
Casual Danish dining with sweeping fjord views, fresh local ingredients and bright, flexible spaces for everything from relaxed lunches to full-scale celebrations.
Rhodos Restaurant & Pizzeria
1.2 km
Friendly neighborhood pizzeria in central Kalundborg serving crisp pizzas, hearty grill dishes and relaxed everyday meals from lunchtime through the evening.
SKØL Brygkompagni
1.3 km
Experience Kalundborg's vibrant craft beer scene at SKØL Brygkompagni, where quality brews and community spirit converge.
La Viva
1.3 km
Casual café-restaurant in Kalundborg serving crowd-pleasing classics, coffee and cocktails in a relaxed, modern setting from late morning through the evening.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rønnebær
1.2 km
Artisan jewelry studio and boutique in Kalundborg's historic old town, crafting bespoke designs and Viking-inspired pieces.
Kalundborg Bogbyer
1.2 km
Denmark's newest book town—a volunteer bookshop supporting literature and local youth education.
The Middle East Market
1.2 km
A compact Kalundborg grocery packed with Middle Eastern, South Asian and international ingredients, where everyday shopping meets global flavours until late.
Bahne
1.3 km
A modern Danish lifestyle store on Kalundborg’s main street, blending fashion, home design and gift ideas in a relaxed, design-conscious atmosphere.
Candy Shop
1.3 km
Kalundborg's beloved candy destination—where sweetness meets convenience in the heart of town.
TEKSTUR
1.3 km
A calm, curated clothing boutique on Kalundborg’s main street, blending Scandinavian simplicity, tactile fabrics and warm, personal service in an intimate setting.
Anni Wear
1.3 km
Cosy women’s fashion boutique on Kalundborg’s main street, offering curated Scandinavian everyday chic, friendly service and a relaxed small-town shopping atmosphere.
Din Tøjmand Kalundborg
1.3 km
Contemporary menswear boutique on Kalundborg's main shopping street, blending quality clothing with personalized service.
Afrodite
1.3 km
Charming independent boutique in Kalundborg's pedestrian heart, offering quality fashion and genuine hospitality.
H&M
1.3 km
Central Kalundborg’s go-to high-street fashion stop, offering affordable wardrobe essentials for all ages along bustling Kordilgade.
790 Hennes & Mauritz
1.3 km
A compact, no-fuss H&M on Kalundborg’s main pedestrian street, offering affordable fashion for women, men, kids and babies in the heart of this coastal town.
Bog & idé
1.3 km
Local Danish book, gift and hobby store on Kalundborg’s main shopping street, mixing books, games and stationery in a cosy, family‑friendly space.
CHANGE Lingerie Outlet
1.3 km
A calm, central Kalundborg boutique for professional bra fittings, Scandinavian lingerie and loungewear at outlet prices on lively Kordilgade.
Penselstrøg Krea Café
1.3 km
Paint your own ceramics and create lasting memories in Kalundborg's creative café.
Thranes Legetøi
1.3 km
Kalundborg's independent toy specialist offering curated quality games, puzzles, and playthings beyond the ordinary.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe Lillebælt
1.0 km
Cozy Kalundborg café-bar blending everyday Danish hygge, simple comfort food and drinks, and a neighborhood atmosphere a short stroll from the harbor.
Kontoret
1.2 km
Kalundborg's inclusive waterfront bar where locals and visitors gather for drinks, food, and genuine social connection.
King's Pub
1.3 km
Traditional small-town pub on Kalundborg’s main street, serving straightforward drinks, local character and unpretentious evening atmosphere.
Kalundborg Jazzclub
1.3 km
Intimate volunteer-run blues and jazz club in central Kalundborg, keeping a 1960s live music legacy alive with close-up concerts and warm community spirit.
Slotskældergården
1.3 km
Unpretentious Danish bar on Kalundborg’s main street, offering cold beer, warm light and a glimpse of everyday local life along Kordilgade.
Next Door Pool Bar
1.4 km
Casual pool and sports bar on Kalundborg’s Kordilgade, mixing easygoing drinks, live games on screen and friendly competition around the pool tables.
Shooters
1.4 km
Kalundborg’s lively bar and disco club serving up music, drinks, and authentic small-town Danish nightlife on weekends.
Delfinen Bodega
12.1 km
Unpolished village pub in rural Eskebjerg, where cold beers, card games, and casual conversation capture the essence of classic Danish bodega culture.
rullen
33.0 km
Casual festival bar in the heart of Samsø Festival, where cold drinks, sea air and relaxed island vibes create a warm pause between concerts.
Garagen
33.1 km
Laid-back island bar in the woods of Strandskoven, blending rustic charm, simple drinks and live music with the easy coastal rhythm of Samsø.
The Red Rubin
33.9 km
Cozy, no‑nonsense neighborhood bar in central Slagelse, serving straightforward drinks and a relaxed local vibe from daytime until the early hours.
Vinkapellet Samsø
33.9 km
Cosy island wine bar in Brundby specialising in organic, biodynamic and natural wines, where intimate surroundings and slow Samsø evenings invite lingering conversations.
Cafe 23
33.9 km
Low‑key, old‑school brown bar in central Slagelse, serving inexpensive drinks and a slice of everyday Danish nightlife in a worn but welcoming setting.
Teater Cafe'en
34.1 km
Cosy neighbourhood bar in central Slagelse, blending café calm by day with a sociable, theatre-tinged bar atmosphere late into the weekend nights.
Cafe Viking.
34.2 km
Unpretentious local bar in central Slagelse, serving inexpensive drinks and everyday Danish pub atmosphere from midday into the late evening.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
