Located at the northern tip of Hiiumaa, on the Tahkuna Peninsula, Tahkuna Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in Estonia. Its construction began in 1873, using prefabricated cast-iron plates manufactured in France. This innovative lighthouse, built using the Gordon system, was completed in 1875 and rises 42.7 meters above sea level.

Alongside the lighthouse, several auxiliary buildings were erected: the keeper’s house, a granary, a cellar, a sauna, and a well. Soon after, a large stone fuel depot was added. Unfortunately, many of these buildings were severely damaged during World War I. The wooden structures, including the main residence, were destroyed in a fire.

Today, several original buildings remain: the 19th-century stone sauna, the oil storage building, the cellar, and a wooden residence and generator house from the 1920s. The original optical lenses, damaged during the wars, were replaced in 1920 with new ones from England. The current lamp system is modern, and the old lighting mechanism is now displayed beside the tower. Parts of the damaged historic lenses are exhibited at the Hiiumaa Museum’s Kassari branch.

The lighthouse operates year-round, and its beam—originally visible up to 18 nautical miles—can now be seen from 12 nautical miles away. The light flashes in a rhythm of 3+3+3+6 seconds to warn sailors of the infamous Hiiumadal shallows, Selgrahu reef, and other nearby hazards.

Visitors can climb the lighthouse via a metal spiral staircase, leading up to an outer balcony that offers stunning views of both land and sea. The perforated metal floor of the balcony adds a slight thrill to the experience—don’t worry, it’s perfectly safe.

BOOK A GUIDED TOUR
Discover the history of Tahkuna Lighthouse! We offer guided tours upon request.
Please book at least 7 days in advance.