The southernmost point of Norway is home to the oldest lighthouse in the country. From the lighthouse, a combination of rocks, blue ocean, and elevation result in a magical experience with breathtaking views.
After visiting Kristiansand, we continued west to check the southernmost tip mainland of Norway. It is situated only an hour's drive from Kristiansand, and it is completely worth the drive! The route goes through small villages and lower (than the usual) sea level. The feeling of driving through curvy mountain ways while the sea is just on the side is indescribable. We were lucky with the high temperatures and warm sun, even though we visited it in March.
Lighthouse
Located in Lindesnes municipality, on the southernmost tip, you will find the oldest lighthouse in Norway, dating back to 1656. From the lighthouse, you can reach the North Cape in 2518 km.
The lighthouse story is written on information panels that can be found all over the place. On top of the hill, next to the lighthouse, you can enjoy the views with the help of a single lens telescope, free of charge. Its zoom helps you explore the small islands, lands, and surrounding fjords with excellent visibility to the smallest detail.
Parking
Arriving at the lighthouse, we found many free parking spots. The parking wasn’t packed, maybe due to our late arrival or due to the off-season. From the parking slot to the lighthouse, it will take you not more than 5 minutes, or depending on how many pictures you will take on the way but keep your battery and phone memory for the top. The view is breathtaking!
Entrance Fee
As we visited the lighthouse after the working hour, it was out of charge. If you visit it during the open hours, the prices are 100 NOK for adults and 25 NOK for 6-16 years old, kids under 6 can enter for free. The price includes any exhibition they have, and you can enjoy the lighthouse inside. There are few other buildings that can be explored. We did not benefit from it as we visited during the closed time, but it is still definitely worth the visit, and it gives you the tranquility of fewer people (or in our case) no people around!
Gift shop | Restaurant
There is an open café for food and beverages. We also spotted a big facility, restaurant like, probably open only during the summer season.
The gift shop offers all kinds of souvenirs, and the coolest part- you can send a postcard directly from the southernmost tip of mainland Norway! Even though it totals a higher price than the usual postcards and stamps, it is worth every cent.
Extreme weather precaution
After we parked, we went straight up to see the views on top and check the lighthouse. The mesmerizing feeling of height and space plus the view of the ocean, fjords, and warm sun results in a breathtaking experience. The sounds of the seagulls and other birds contribute to the beautiful scenario.
Be aware that the place can be very dangerous if the weather is not good. It is important to bear in mind that it is a very open area, and in case of severe wind, the waves can get to extreme heights. The top always has a bit of wind, even in good weather.
We visited the area in March, and some proper layers of clothes were needed, especially after the sunset. The sunset is an utterly indescribable experience. The view in daylight is already impressive, but it can only get better with all the colors that a sunset can assemble.
Overnight Stay (parking/accommodation)
As the sun was starting to set down, we agreed on staying there the night and like the idea of the night sky and numerous stars is always very catchy. The lighthouse offers an overnight stay for motor homes for the additional price of 100 NOK (€10). There are two open bathrooms for the guests during the whole day and nighttime. If you are not prepared to sleep in your car, the lighthouse has a ready facility for guests. The prices of the stay include your ticket for visits as well.
Find more about prices and the guest facility here https://lindesnesshop.no/en/lindesnesBooking .
Staying overnight and enjoying the stars is one of the best things you can do in the area. Due to the height, no light pollution, and the dark nights (available only in winter/autumn/early spring), you can see the thousands and thousands of stars in the sky and take time to enjoy the shooting stars all night long. Moreover, the light of the lighthouse gives an amazing effect; that's for all the photography enthusiasts. As we always travel prepared, we had some wood in the van which we used to prepare dinner while seated on one of the small beaches close by the lighthouse.
Hiking Trails
We planned to wake up and enjoy the sunrise. Well, not everything went as planned, we missed the alarm and enjoyed a few hours more of sleep. Anyways, waking up and having coffee under the rays of the sun, surrounded by the sounds of the ocean, isn’t that what we all dream about? We took some moments to enjoy the sun, and then our journey continued. Apparently, the area has a lot more to offer than only the lighthouse. So, take some extra time and enjoy the views from the other peaks following the hiking trails. Next to the parking lot, you will find a map that will guide you to the many treks and paths to discover the area. There is something for everybody as the hikes vary from easy to very challenging ones. Not much is needed for the easier ones, but proper clothes (check the weather depending on the season), a backpack with food and water (maybe an extra layer of clothing won’t be bad).
Our Opinion
We left the area completely satisfied with the experience. It should definitely be on your To Visit list if you are in the south part of Norway. Depending on one’s schedule, it can be a few hours visit or extended to a day or two. My recommendation is to definitely spare a night from your trip and enjoy the numerous stars and night sky, accompanied by the sound of the waves and the light from the lighthouse.