This North Jutland fishing port has Denmark's largest fish auction and a WWII coastal fortress. The harbor area sees active fishing boats and ships daily.
Hanstholm sits on Denmark's northern coast, where fishing trawlers bring in daily catches of cod, haddock, and plaice. Visitors can climb the 1843 lens-based lighthouse, explore a WWII bunker network, and walk the dunes of Thy National Park.
Denmark's Active Fishing Port
More than 40,000 tonnes of fish pass through Hanstholm's port each year. Since the 2017 harbor expansion, which deepened the water from 8 to 12 meters, the port has doubled its capacity. Walk along the docks to watch trawlers unload their catch, or buy fresh fish directly from local vendors at the harbor.
Thy National Park Access
The northern entrance to Thy National Park starts at the foot of Hanstholm Lighthouse. Walk the 600-meter paved path from the lighthouse parking area to an overlook to spot deer and birds among the dunes. The strong winds near the harbor's three turbines create conditions that attract windsurfers throughout the year.
World War II Bunker Museum
The Bunker Museum contains 2,500 square meters of underground fortifications. The complex included 38-centimeter guns with a 55-kilometer range as part of the German coastal defense system. Walk through original crew quarters, ammunition stores, and technical sections. Several rooms remain in their original condition, with period equipment and exhibits explaining the fortification's role during WWII.
Hanstholm Lighthouse
Built in 1843, the lighthouse rises 23 meters above ground and sits 65 meters above sea level. When engineers added electricity in 1889, its rotating lens system flashed three times every 10 seconds. You can climb the lighthouse daily between 9:00 and 18:00, with the museum section open from 10:00 to 17:00 during summer months. Rest in the sheltered garden and look out over the North Sea.
Town Center
Local bakeries and shops line the streets of central Hanstholm. Try Danish pastries at Centerbageren or handmade chocolates at THYA chocolatier. Walking and cycling paths connect the center to residential areas, and pubs like Sir Henrys serve Danish beers and light meals.
