Campen between Lighthouse Views and the Krummhörn Cycling Route

Campen offers two very different ways to experience the Krummhörn: climbing Germany’s tallest lighthouse and cycling a circular route around 43.5 kilometres long through the terp villages. On clear days, the tower offers views as far as Borkum and Emden; the circular route leads from Campen towards Rysum and Emden and takes in the dike and Wadden Sea. The birdlife is also part of the landscape: at low tide, the mudflats are exposed and provide a feeding ground for many bird species. This combination of a landmark, a route and the tides shapes a visit.

The Campen Lighthouse: Height and Views

The Campen Lighthouse is a 65.30-metre-high steel lattice tower and Germany’s tallest lighthouse. There are 308 steps to the lower gallery. In clear weather, the view stretches towards Borkum, across the Krummhörn and as far as Emden. This vista brings together three different scales: island, landscape and city; the gallery is a specific destination, while the view extends far beyond Campen. Public parking is available on Leuchtturmstraße. Opening arrangements may change seasonally; check them before your visit.

Cycling through the Krummhörn

If you would rather cover some distance, you can include Campen on the circular cycling route, around 43.5 kilometres long, through the terp villages of the Krummhörn. Follow the cycle route signs from Campen towards Rysum and Emden. The route also connects the dike with the Campen Lighthouse; from its platform, the view stretches across the Krummhörn and the Wadden Sea. This means the ride takes in both village sections and the connection to the lighthouse. Unlike a climb made as a single-destination visit, this option focuses on a longer route through several places. Signage and the route may be updated; check the route if you are planning your ride.

The Wadden Sea and Birdlife at Low Tide

The cycling route connects Campen with the dike and the Wadden Sea. At low tide, the mudflats are exposed and provide food for many bird species. If birds and the mudflats are part of your visit, plan your timing around low tide. This brings out two different travel highlights: the lighthouse as a permanent landmark and a nature experience shaped by the tides.

Campen as a Starting Point for Your Accommodation Search

The lighthouse centres a visit on a viewpoint and the climb to the lower gallery; the cycling route passes through several terp villages and takes in the dike and the Wadden Sea. Consider whether a single visit or a longer ride should shape your stay more. If both appeal, you can treat the tower as a destination along the route rather than seeing the experiences as alternatives. Focus your search for accommodation in Campen on this choice of places and experiences; which perspective takes priority depends on your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Rysum, Hamswehrum, Greetsiel, Eilsum, Visquard, Upleward, Loquard, Pewsum

Back to the overview of the region: Krummhörn.