bornholm • lighthouses • Hammeren • Hammerodde • Dueodde • Rønne Bag • Rønne Kongen • Svaneke • Christiansø
Lighthouses on Bornholm
Bornholm’s lighthouses play a key role in safe navigation around the island in the Baltic Sea. Today they’re also some of the most scenic stops for viewpoints, coastal walks and road trips — from Hammeren in the north to Dueodde in the south, plus the harbour lights of Rønne and the fortress island of Christiansø.
Must-see
Dueodde Lighthouse
Best for
views • photos • easy stops
Style
road trip • short walks
Tip
combine with beaches & harbours
Why so many lighthouses?
Bornholm sits on important Baltic sea routes, and its coastline has rocky sections, shoals and frequent sea fog. Lighthouses helped guide ships safely for generations — and today they’re a perfect excuse to explore the island’s best coastlines. Plan a north–south route (Hammeren → Dueodde), add a harbour stroll in Rønne, and if you have time, take a day trip to Christiansø.
Top lighthouses to visit
Hammeren Lighthouse – the oldest lighthouse on Bornholm
Hammeren is the oldest and one of the most impressive lighthouses on Bornholm. It sits on the granite massif of Hammeren at the island’s northern tip and was built from the very same rock it stands on. Because of its solid construction, it’s often called Store (“the big lighthouse”).
It opened in 1871, but the location proved challenging: low clouds and sea fog often reduced visibility. That’s why a smaller lighthouse, Hammerodde, was built in 1895 at a better spot nearby.
The tower is 21 metres tall. On a clear day you can see the southern coast of Sweden, the ruins of Hammershus and sweeping views of North Bornholm.
The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1990. Today it’s maintained by private owners and open to visitors free of charge.
Hammerodde Lighthouse – the northernmost light on Bornholm
Hammerodde, sometimes called “the small light”, marks Bornholm’s northernmost point. It’s a classic coastal photo stop and a distinctive landmark along the rugged Hammeren shoreline.
Built in 1895 to support Hammeren Lighthouse, it benefits from a more effective location right at the tip of the island.
Tower height: 12 m • Light height: 21 m • Range: 18 nautical miles
The lighthouse is not open to visitors, but it’s well worth seeing from the outside.
Dueodde Lighthouse – the tallest lighthouse on Bornholm
Dueodde is Bornholm’s tallest lighthouse, rising 48 metres above the landscape. Its distinctive white-and-blue tower is one of the island’s most recognizable landmarks.
From the main parking area in Dueodde, it’s a short walk. The lighthouse is open to visitors, with 196 steps to the top. Admission is typically 10 DKK.
Tower height: 48 m • Light height: 48.5 m • Range: 20.5 nautical miles
Commissioned in 1962, automated in 1977.
Rønne Bag Lighthouse – the iconic white octagonal harbour light
Arriving by ferry to Rønne, you’ll spot the white octagonal Rønne Bag lighthouse on the hill above the harbour basin. It’s a strong visual landmark and a great little stop on a harbour walk.
Built in 1880, it served as a leading light for the harbour entrance until 1989. The iron tower is a copy of the lighthouse in Ystad (southern Sweden).
Tower height: 12 m • Light height: 24 m
It’s no longer active, but still a charming part of Rønne’s maritime scenery.
Rønne Kongen – the former lower light of the harbour
On the old pier in Rønne, below the Rønne Bag lighthouse, stands the small but distinctive Rønne Kongen. It functioned as the lower light that complemented the upper leading light.
Commissioned in 1930. Today it’s not in use, but it remains a small piece of harbour history.
Tower height: 9 m • Light height: 11 m
Svaneke Lighthouse – a classic red-roof coastal landmark
Svaneke lighthouse, opened in 1920, stands on the Sandkås Odde peninsula south of Svaneke harbour. Its square tower and red roof make it easy to recognize from afar.
Electrified in 1947 (a rare upgrade on the island at the time). Tower height: 18 m, light height: 20 m, range: 19 nautical miles. It remained active until 2010.
After decommissioning, the lighthouse and keeper’s house were restored and converted into a holiday home.
Christiansø Lighthouse – a lighthouse built on a fortress tower
The Christiansø lighthouse stands on the island of Christiansø in the Ertholmene archipelago east of Bornholm. It’s the region’s oldest lighthouse, added to a fortress tower from 1684 in 1808.
Tower height: 16 m • Light height: 29 m • Range: 18 nautical miles
In summer season it is often open to visitors (usually with an entry fee). From the top you get beautiful views over Ertholmene and the Baltic Sea.
FAQ: lighthouses on Bornholm
Which lighthouses should I see first if I’m short on time?
Start with Dueodde for the panoramic view, then head north to Hammeren/Hammerodde for Bornholm’s most dramatic coastal scenery.
Can you go inside every lighthouse?
Not all of them. Dueodde is open to visitors (stairs to the top). Hammeren is often open, while Hammerodde is typically view-only from the outside. Christiansø is seasonal and often ticketed.
How long do I need for a lighthouse road trip?
For 3–4 lighthouses across different areas, plan half a day to a full day including driving. The easiest way is to combine them with beaches, harbours and short walks.
Is it a good plan in windy or rainy weather?
Yes. Most stops are quick and accessible. On clear days, prioritize Dueodde to enjoy the view from the top.
Plan your Bornholm day
Choose what fits your style: guided tours, bike rental, or quick planning on the map.
