Until quite recently lighthouses were manned and keepers lived in them. But by the 1990s automation had largely taken over and the living quarters were abandoned.

Today more than 40 historic lights have found new roles in offering accommodation. And new lights are being added.

For a fan of fresh air and sea views, a lighthouse is a unique holiday home. Usually you live in the keeper’s cottage where you can make your own meals.

At some lighthouses you will be entirely alone on your own personal rock. At other lights you will become part of the local community. The small coastal villages tend to be abundantly hospitable places, and a stay at a lighthouse may also involve late nights at the local pub or fishing together with the local fishermen.

The lighthouses’ extraordinary locations and striking designs have enormous evocative power. In Norway the sense of history is especially powerful. After all, the sea and ships have for ages been the very lifeblood of the coast.