Taksensand fyr

Hidden among beech forests and gentle coastal hills on the southern tip of the island of Als, Taksensand Fyr is one of Denmark’s most peaceful and secluded lighthouses. Built in 1905, it stands on a quiet stretch of the Baltic coast, far from major roads or towns. The lighthouse is modest in scale — a whitewashed brick tower only 19 meters tall — but its setting gives it an unmistakable charm. Surrounded by green woodland and overlooking the calm, pale-blue waters of the Little Belt, Taksensand feels more like a secret than a landmark.

The approach to the lighthouse is part of the experience. A narrow forest path leads through tall beech trees, where sunlight filters down in soft green light. As you reach the coast, the forest opens suddenly to reveal the lighthouse standing just above the pebbled beach. The view across the water is serene: the island of Ærø visible in the distance, and the gentle movement of ferries and sailboats along the horizon. It’s a place defined by quiet — the sound of leaves, waves, and seabirds — a world away from Denmark’s wilder North Sea shores.

Photographically, Taksensand Fyr offers a rare blend of forest and sea, light and shade. In early morning, the tower glows softly between the trees; at sunset, golden light filters through the canopy and reflects off the water. Whether approached on foot or by boat, it captures the tranquil, intimate character of Denmark’s southern archipelago — calm, understated, and deeply poetic.

Best time to visit

• Morning for calm air and gentle forest light.
• Late afternoon to sunset for golden tones across the trees and sea.
• Spring and early summer for lush greenery; autumn for warm colors.

Practical tips

• Access via Taksensand Forest; parking at the end of Taksensandvej near Sønderborg.
• Short forest walk (1.5 km) to the lighthouse.
• Bring water and proper shoes — terrain can be uneven with roots and sand.
• Quiet area: no facilities nearby, ideal for peaceful photography or picnics.