Neuer Leuchtturm

Visit the island's landmark and enjoy the magnificent view!

After a fire almost completely destroyed the old lighthouse on Borkum in 1879, there was no time to lose. The New Lighthouse was built in record time between May and September 1879 to ensure that ships passing by the island could continue to find their way safely.

The New Lighthouse is still one of the most important sea lights on the North Sea coast today and serves as a daytime marker and at night to guide shipping passing in front of the Ems estuary. On clear nights, the light is visible for up to 45 kilometres. In addition, a secondary light set up in the side window of the tower signals a change of course at the notorious Borkum reef plate.

Even if the climb seems sporty at first glance, the effort is definitely worth it. After climbing exactly 308 steps, you reach the viewing platform of the lighthouse, from where you have a unique view over Borkum, the sea, the neighbouring island, the Wadden Sea World Heritage Site and, on a clear day, even parts of the Dutch mainland.