The Lindesnes Fyr (or Lindesnes Lighthouse) is the southernmost and oldest light house standing in…read moreNorway. Operation began in 1656 using candles; the current structure, using halogen bulbs, was erected in 1915 and is still in use today. For a nominal fee you are free to wander the trails surrounding the lighthouse, including the barracks put in during the German occupation of Norway during WWII, enter and explore the top of the 1915 lighthouse, tour the museum carved into the rock underneath the lighthouse (so cool, and a little damp, it was a photo exhibit of all the historic lighthouses in Norway when we last visited in 2010). The visitors center houses a cinema showing the history of the lighthouse and area (including war info for you WWII buffs) and a nice cafe.
I've been visiting Lindesnes since I was a child, as part of my family still lives in nearby Mandal. Probably been the the lighthouse half a dozen times. I've always been fascinated with the pristine beauty of the geography coupled with the easy-to-take history lesson. Norway does a great job preserving the integrity of their landscape and history, and this is no exception. I've never felt overwhelmed by tourists, and love how they offer the films, and placards noting important buildings or describing exhibits, in at least 3-4 languages (Norwegian, English, German and French typically).
If you ever have the opportunity to visit the 'riviera' of Norway (aka: the southern coast) - do yourself a favor and come. Look out across the North Sea and notice Denmark in the distance (and how flat it is compared to Norway). Enjoy a coffee (they won't expect you to want cream or sugar - FYI) and open faced sandwich at the kafe ("cafe" - yes my Norwegian is so good, isn't it?). It will be sublimely relaxing and enjoyable - even if the weather is a little rough (this is the coast of Norway after all - so dress the part).
PS- I've never stayed there, but they do have a hotel on site.
