Forfyr Rinkenæs Lighthouse at Gråsten
A modest lighthouse on Flensburg Fjord offering wide skies, calm waters and a quiet pause between royal Gråsten and the open border sea.
Perched on the northern shore of Flensburg Fjord near Gråsten, Forfyr Rinkenæs is a small coastal lighthouse that doubles as a peaceful viewpoint over the border waters between Denmark and Germany. Set at the end of a quiet lane called Ved Fyret, it overlooks sailing boats, low wooded shores and the open fjord light. Simple benches, grassy patches and the soft sound of wind and rigging give the spot an unhurried, contemplative feel. It is an easy, low-effort stop that pairs well with exploring Gråsten and the surrounding royal landscapes.
A brief summary to Forfyr Rinkenæs
- Ved Fyret 7, Gråsten, 6300, DK
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring a windproof layer even in summer, as the exposed position on Flensburg Fjord can feel noticeably cooler than in nearby Gråsten.
- Pair a short stop at the lighthouse with a longer visit to Gråsten Palace gardens for a full day of coastal and royal scenery.
- Photographers should aim for early morning or late afternoon when the low sun adds texture to the water and definition to the clouds.
- There are no services at the lighthouse, so pick up snacks, drinks and use restrooms in Gråsten before heading out.
Getting There
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Car from central Gråsten
From central Gråsten, driving to the lighthouse area typically takes around 10–15 minutes along local roads. Expect short, narrow stretches near the coast and limited space for turning at the end of Ved Fyret. Parking is informal and can be tight on busy summer days, so be prepared to reverse carefully and avoid blocking driveways. There is no fee to access the site.
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Bicycle from Gråsten town
Cycling from Gråsten to the lighthouse usually takes 20–30 minutes each way, using a combination of minor roads and quiet residential streets. The terrain is mostly gentle with a few small rises typical of South Jutland. Surfaces are paved but can be exposed to wind near the coast, so allow extra time in breezy weather. This option suits reasonably confident cyclists familiar with sharing the road with light local traffic.
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Walking from nearby coastal accommodation
If you are staying in the coastal area west of Gråsten, the lighthouse can often be reached on foot in about 30–50 minutes, depending on your exact starting point. Expect a mix of pavements and roadside verges, with some stretches lacking dedicated footpaths. The route is mostly flat but exposed, so good footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are advisable, especially outside the summer months.
Forfyr Rinkenæs location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Forfyr Rinkenæs
Beacon on the Edge of Flensburg Fjord
Forfyr Rinkenæs sits at the tip of a small projection on the north side of Flensburg Fjord, a few kilometres from the market town of Gråsten. The name literally means a leading or guiding light, and that is exactly what this modest lighthouse has long been for ships navigating the shallow coastal waters between Denmark and Germany. You approach along Ved Fyret, a short road that ends where land gives way to wide sky and low, lapping waves. The lighthouse itself is compact rather than monumental, a functional tower with maritime fittings, railings and signal equipment. Around it, a simple yard, patches of grass and a few informal paths give you space to wander and choose your vantage point. On clear days you can trace the line of the fjord almost to the outer waters, with wooded headlands and villages punctuating the horizon.Borderland Scenery and Shifting Light
What makes Forfyr Rinkenæs special is less its size and more its setting. The Flensburg Fjord is a classic South Jutland landscape of gently rolling shoreline, red-tiled farm roofs and long bands of reed and shingle at the water’s edge. From the lighthouse area, the views change constantly with wind and weather: early mornings can bring mist hanging low over the fjord, while late afternoons often paint the water in muted blues and silver. This is also historical border country, where Danish and German influences have overlapped for centuries. Though the lighthouse grounds are quiet today, the waters below have seen fishing boats, naval movements and ferry routes that tied the region together. Standing here, you sense both the calm of a small coastal community and the wider story of a shared seascape.A Quiet Pause Between Royal Town and Open Water
Many visitors fold a stop at Forfyr Rinkenæs into a broader day around Gråsten. Inland lies Gråsten Palace, the royal summer residence framed by romantic gardens, woodland and lakes. Out here at the lighthouse, the mood is different: more exposed to the elements, more focused on the open horizon than on formal avenues and lawns. The contrast is part of the appeal. After strolling palace paths or town streets, the uncluttered space around the lighthouse feels like a reset. There is usually little to distract you beyond seabirds, the sound of halyards against masts, and the occasional yacht sweeping past the light. On blustery days, waves slap more firmly against the shore and the wind can feel bracing, but the sense of being at the meeting point of land and sea only grows stronger.Simple Pleasures by the Water
Facilities at Forfyr Rinkenæs are minimal, but that suits its character as a short-stop viewpoint. A couple of informal seating spots and grassy edges invite you to sit with a thermos or a simple picnic. Children often enjoy watching boats and spotting different types of buoys and markers in the fjord, turning the visit into an easy introduction to coastal navigation. Photographers are drawn here for the uncluttered compositions: the vertical line of the lighthouse set against big skies, or low, horizontal frames that emphasise the sweep of the fjord. Cloudy days can be just as rewarding as bright ones, lending drama and texture to the seascape. With few artificial lights nearby, evenings can bring a surprisingly atmospheric dusk over the water.Seasons, Weather and When to Linger
Forfyr Rinkenæs is accessible year-round, and each season has its own character. Spring brings fresh greens along the shoreline and clearer air, sharpening distant views. In summer, long light and milder breezes make it a pleasant stop in the cool of the morning or later in the day when the sun eases. Autumn often colours the trees along the fjord in oranges and russets, and weather fronts sliding up the waterway create fast-changing skies that are rewarding to watch. Winter visits can be raw but memorable: short days, low sun and the possibility of frost on the grass add a quiet, introspective tone. Whenever you come, plan a little unhurried time simply to stand, look out over Flensburg Fjord and let this modest lighthouse do what it does best—anchor you in the landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Befrielsessten i Vester Sottrup
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Tysk skanse X
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King's Redoubt
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Mindesten for Røde Kors
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Iskonditoriet
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Windmill
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Mindesten for korporal Hammerström og konstabel Frederiksen
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Papirgalleriet v/Gitte Kristjansen
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Memory stone
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Sønderborg Kommunale Kommandocentral
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Gedenkstein für hingerichtete Widerstandskämpfer
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Foundation country Schäferhaus
18.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Foundation country Schaeferhaus, a nature preserve in Flensburg, perfect for relaxation, education, and wildlife observation.
Kriegerdenkmal
41.2 km
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Capitolplatz
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Unmissable attractions to see
Halbinsel Holnis
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Experience the serene landscapes and rich wildlife of Halbinsel Holnis, a tranquil nature preserve on the beautiful Baltic Sea coast of Germany.
Gråsten Palace
4.1 km
Rococo royal summer residence in Southern Jutland, set amid romantic English-style gardens, lakes and woodland, with palace views and a richly decorated church.
Gråstenskovene
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Glücksburg Castle
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Nøffelskoven med træskulpturer
7.5 km
Small, sculpture-filled Nøffelskoven is a young forest playground of winding paths, wooden art, fire circle and shelters between Sønderborg and Gråsten.
Nybøl Mølle
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A hilltop windmill where traditional engineering, borderland battles and quiet fields meet in a single white tower north of Nybøl.
Fællesgravene på Toppen af Dybbøl Banke
11.1 km
A modest field of shared graves crowns Dybbøl Banke, where simple stones, open sky and rolling hills commemorate the fallen of Denmark’s fateful 1864 battlefield.
Genforeningstavle på Dybbøl tysk skanse X
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A modest reunification plaque on Dybbøl’s former German Redoubt X, linking the 1864 battlefield to the peaceful border changes of 1920 in a quiet, open landscape.
Historiecenter Dybbøl Banke
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Dybbøl Mill
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Mindesten for Løjtnant Rothenborg Muus
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Dybbølstenen
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Mindesten for løjtnant A.P.Dorscheus
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Memorial Stone for du Plat, Schau and Rosen
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Sandbjerg Manor
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Essential places to dine
Den Gamle Skomager
3.7 km
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Den Gamle Kro
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Restaurant Bind
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Michelin-starred Nordic cuisine in a historic fjord-side villa, where fresh ingredients and open-kitchen artistry meet modern hospitality.
Restaurant Quellental
6.9 km
Experience exquisite German and Scandinavian cuisine at Restaurant Quellental in Glücksburg, with stunning views of the Baltic Sea.
Das Grace
11.7 km
Experience culinary artistry at Das Grace with stunning waterfront views in Flensburg's finest dining establishment.
Byens Pizza & Grill Dybbøl - Sønderborg
12.6 km
Experience the best pizza, barbecue, and burgers in Sønderborg at Byens Pizza & Grill Dybbøl – where flavor meets comfort!
Restaurant Sundhalle V/Eva Iversen
13.2 km
Relaxed harborfront restaurant in Sønderborg serving hearty Danish comfort food and pub classics in a cozy, down-to-earth bar atmosphere by the water.
Ballebro Færgekro
13.4 km
Historic waterside inn and restaurant on the shores of Als Fjord, blending nostalgic 1890s charm, refined seasonal cuisine and deep Sønderjysk tranquility.
Restaurant Alsik
13.4 km
Contemporary waterfront restaurant in the Alsik Hotel, blending South Jutland ingredients with classic European flavours in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Syttende
13.4 km
Michelin-starred sky dining on the 17th floor of Alsik, where New Nordic cuisine meets sweeping waterfront views over Sønderborg and Alssund.
Grey Ghost ApS
13.5 km
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Karikatur Restaurant og Bar i Sønderborg
13.5 km
Modern Nordic plates and inventive cocktails come together in a clean-lined, harbor-close restaurant that anchors Sønderborg’s contemporary dining scene.
Bistro Grand Mère
13.5 km
Harborfront French bistro in Sønderborg, blending classic Gallic comfort dishes, thoughtful wines and a cozy green-paneled setting with views of the lively marina.
Restaurant Colosseum
13.5 km
Harbourfront Danish comfort food in a cosy, family-friendly setting with views over Sønderborg’s waterfront and a welcoming slice of Southern Jutland hygge.
Promenaden - Is med udsigt
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mr Klausen Herre-og Drengetøj
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Classic Danish mens- and boyswear on Sønderborg’s Perlegade, blending everyday essentials, occasion outfits and local Ringridning traditions in one friendly shop.
Twizt Fashion
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Compact Danish fashion and lingerie boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, combining everyday practicality with relaxed, personal service.
Jim P.
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Curated fashion for discerning shoppers seeking distinctive style beyond the mainstream.
Viller
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Independent women’s fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, blending Scandinavian style, curated brands and personal, one-to-one service.
Tøjeksperten
13.8 km
Denmark's largest menswear chain brings premium brands and accessible style to central Sønderborg.
Kop & Kande
13.8 km
Welcoming Danish homeware and gift shop on Sønderborg’s main street, stocked with practical kitchen essentials, stylish tableware and thoughtful presents.
Gundtoft Sønderborg
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Classic women's fashion since 1957, nestled on Sønderborg's charming pedestrian street.
Juhl Bolighus A / S
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Noa Noa
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Masai
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JACK & JONES
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Straightforward Scandinavian menswear in the heart of Borgen Shopping, ideal for denim, casual basics and smart-casual outfits under one convenient indoor roof.
Zizzi - Sønderborg
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Borgen
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Sønderborg's complete shopping experience: 40 stores, dining, cinema, and culture under one roof.
Normal
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Bright, budget‑friendly beauty and everyday essentials in the heart of Borgen Shopping, perfect for quick top‑ups and casual browsing between Sønderborg sights.
ONLY
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tinsoldaten/Kim Jakobsen
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Caféen
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Freia Bar & Lounge
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Visselulles Vinbar
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New Orleans Jazz I Sønderborg
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Nebula.dk ApS
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Rabalder Bar - Sønderborg
13.6 km
Tiny in size but big on volume, Rabalder Bar Sønderborg packs sing‑along hits, simple drinks and late‑night energy into one compact old‑town party den.
Penny Lane Sønderborg
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Lively late‑night bar in central Sønderborg serving cocktails, beer and loud tunes from evening warm‑up to near‑club energy on weekend nights.
Old Danish Pub
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SKAAL Sønderborg
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Bar' Vinbar
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Heidi's Bier Bar Sønderborg
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Loud alpine-themed beer hall and late-night party bar bringing après-ski energy, big steins and sing-along hits to Sønderborg’s central Rådhustorvet.
Den Lille Vinbar
13.8 km
Cosy fromagerie-style wine bar on Perlegade, pairing carefully selected bottles with generous cheese tapas in an intimate, continental-feeling corner of Sønderborg.
the tea house
13.9 km
South Jutland's premier bubble tea destination with customizable flavors and signature boba varieties.
Restaurant Viking - Pool and billiards Sønderborg
14.1 km
Authentic Danish neighborhood pub where locals gather for affordable drinks, billiards, and genuine community atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
