Denmark’s Oldest Lighthouse: Det Grå Fyr (The Grey Lighthouse), Skagen
Iconic 19th-century lighthouse near the tip of Denmark, famed for sweeping sea views, dramatic bird migrations, interactive exhibitions, and family-friendly café.
Rising above the windswept dunes at Denmark’s northern tip, the Grey Lighthouse (Det Grå Fyr) is Skagen’s maritime sentinel and a celebrated birdwatcher’s haven. Built in 1858, this granite giant gives panoramic views over the meeting of two seas, houses interactive exhibitions, a vibrant café, and welcomes visitors to climb its spiraling staircase for one of Scandinavia’s most atmospheric lookouts.
A brief summary to Køge Nord
- Nordstjernen 3, Køge, 4600, DK
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, especially in April-May and August-October during major migrations.
- The climb to the top is steep and narrow; children love the adventure, but it may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
- The café serves fresh local treats, including Skagen's famous pastries—perfect for a post-climb reward.
- Check for temporary exhibitions and bird banding events at the visitor center for a unique behind-the-scenes experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From Skagen’s lively harbor and main square, the Grey Lighthouse sits at the northern edge, reachable on foot in approximately 25–35 minutes. The route passes through shifting dunes, with the lighthouse visible ahead as a steady landmark. The walk is mostly flat and pleasant, though wind and sand can make for a bracing adventure—bring sturdy footwear in windy weather.
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Bicycle
Cycling from Skagen’s central area to the lighthouse is a cherished local tradition and takes about 10–15 minutes each way. Bike rental shops are dotted around the center, typically charging 90–110 DKK for a standard day rental. The scenic cycle path heads towards the sandy headland, with the lighthouse always easy to spot in the distance.
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Taxi
Taxis from the center of Skagen to Det Grå Fyr are readily available, offering a quick 5–10-minute drive. Fares generally range from 70–110 DKK depending on departure point and traffic, with drop-off directly by the entrance.
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Car
For visitors arriving by car, ample parking is found near the lighthouse’s base. Parking fees are generally 12–18 DKK per hour. Spaces fill more quickly during weekends and migration seasons, so consider arriving early in peak periods.
Discover more about Køge Nord
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Køge Nord
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Iconic 19th-century lighthouse near the tip of Denmark, famed for sweeping sea views, dramatic bird migrations, interactive exhibitions, and family-friendly café.
Køge Ås
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Bronzestien - Køge Ås
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Gammel Køgegård
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KØS Museum of Art in Public Spaces
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Visit
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Køge St.
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Køge Museum
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VisitKøges selvbetjente turistbureau
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Køge Torv
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“Slaget i Køge Bugt”
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Comwell Køge Strand
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Køge Fælles Jord
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Køge Å
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mindesten for Elias Andersen
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Lovparken
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Køge Church
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the old house
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Brønden på Køge Torv
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Drikkevandpost - Havnen
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Borgring
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Køge bølgebryder
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Køge syd mole
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Dyreskueplads
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Strandskov
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Essential places to dine
Gastronomia Italiana
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Stacy's
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Ankerstedet
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Restaurant Arken
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Duevangs Deluxe Spiseri & Catering
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Café T
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Køge Grill House
4.7 km
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Vin-O
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Cups 'n Cones Køge
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Cafe Vivaldi
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Bistro17
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Brasseriet Baum
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Outlet Køge
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Miss O
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Vinylfreak
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NORII Roskilde
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BOSS Outlet
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Ringsted Outlet
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Frederiksberg Centret
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Fisketorvet Copenhagen Mall
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Den høje stue
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Vinbaren Køge
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Ibsens Pub & Vinbar
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Vinbaren Muicon
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Cafe Intime
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The House of Machines Copenhagen
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Märkbar
30.3 km
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