Homborsund Lighthouse

Homborsund Lighthouse is a coastal lighthouse in southern Norway, in Grimstad Municipality, Agder county. It stands on the island of Store Grønningen, about 2 kilometres southeast of the village of Homborsund, which gave it its name. Today it is a protected cultural site, and visitors can stay overnight there.

Where is Homborsund Lighthouse?

The lighthouse sits on Store Grønningen, an island off the coast of Grimstad Municipality. It lies roughly 2 km (1.2 mi) southeast of the village of Homborsund. Because it stands on an island, it belongs to the rocky maritime coast of Agder rather than to a roadside stop. The village lent the station its name, even though the station itself is out at sea.

When was it built and what does it look like?

The light was established in 1879. Lyngør Lighthouse was constructed the same year, and the two stations share a similar design. If you are visiting several lighthouses along Norway's southern coast, comparing these two is worthwhile, since they come from the same period and the same architectural idea.

What is part of the station?

Besides the light itself, the complex includes:

• a living house for two families,
• an outhouse,
• a boathouse,
• a pier.

This set of buildings shows that the station was once a permanent home. Keepers and their families lived here on the island alongside the equipment that served shipping. The boathouse and pier are a reminder that the only way to reach the island is by water.

What changed after 1992?

The light was automated in 1992 and the station was de-populated, meaning no one lived there permanently any more. Automation allowed the light to operate without staff. The buildings were not forgotten, though: the site is listed as a protected cultural site.

Can you stay overnight?

Yes. Today the station is open to the public for overnight stays and guidance. It is a rare chance to spend time in a former lighthouse keepers' home on an island surrounded by sea. Before you travel, check current booking rules and boat access with the operator of the site.

Is the surrounding area protected?

Yes. The area around the lighthouse is a protected bird sanctuary. During a visit, keep quiet, stay away from nests and follow the nature protection rules in force on the island.

Frequently asked questions

When was Homborsund Lighthouse built? In 1879, the same year as Lyngør Lighthouse.

Where exactly is it? On the island of Store Grønningen in Grimstad Municipality, Agder county, Norway, about 2 km southeast of the village of Homborsund.

Is anyone still living at the lighthouse? No. After automation in 1992 the station was de-populated, but today you can stay overnight.

Is the site protected? Yes, it is a protected cultural site, and the surrounding area is a protected bird sanctuary.

What else is on the island? A living house for two families, an outhouse, a boathouse and a pier.

Who is this place for?

Homborsund Lighthouse appeals to fans of maritime architecture, shipping history, quiet places and birdwatching. It combines a monument from 1879, the option of an overnight stay and contact with nature in a protected sanctuary. It suits travellers who want to see Norway's southern coast from a less obvious angle, and it pairs easily with Lyngør Lighthouse, built in the same year to a similar design.