Name and Location

Höskuldsey Lighthouse is located in the picturesque town of Stykkishólmur, Iceland.

Construction and History

Höskuldsey Lighthouse was built in the late 19th century to serve as a vital aid to navigation for ships traversing the treacherous coastline of western Iceland. The original structure was replaced by the current one in the early 20th century.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse's design is characterized by its striking white tower with a red lantern room at an elevation of approximately 13 meters (43 feet) above sea level. The tower is topped with a finial and a light characteristic that includes four sectors: Fl (white) for the first sector, Fl (red) for the second sector, Fl (green) for the third sector, and Fl (white) for the fourth sector.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse's primary function is to provide a guiding light to mariners. The light characteristic consists of four sectors: Fl (white) with a range of 10 nautical miles (18.5 kilometers), Fl (red) with a range of 7 nautical miles (13 kilometers), Fl (green) with a range of 7 nautical miles (13 kilometers), and Fl (white) with a range of 10 nautical miles (18.5 kilometers). The light is visible from a distance of approximately 6 nautical miles (11 kilometers).

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the area surrounding the lighthouse, but please note that entry into the tower itself may be restricted due to safety concerns or maintenance activities. The surrounding landscape offers breathtaking views of the Icelandic coastline.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse stands tall on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea, offering spectacular views of the surrounding waters and the majestic landscapes of western Iceland. The area around the lighthouse is characterized by rugged coastline, steep cliffs, and scenic vistas. The landscape is home to various marine life, including puffins, gulls, and other seabirds.

Anecdotes and Folklore

Few stories about former lighthouse keepers have been recorded, but it is known that the station was once staffed by a small team of keepers who maintained the light and assisted mariners in distress.

Technical and Operational Details

Höskuldsey Lighthouse has been automated since the early 2000s, eliminating the need for manual operation by keepers. The lighthouse remains an important aid to navigation, with its light still functioning and visible from a distance.

Further Information

The managing authority for Höskuldsey Lighthouse is the Icelandic Coast Guard. Visitors can access the area surrounding the lighthouse. Nearby attractions include museums, churches, and scenic hiking trails in the town of Stykkishólmur.