Gąski Lighthouse - Tourist Guide

The Gąski Lighthouse is the landmark of this seaside town in the Mielno commune and one of the most iconic landmarks on the entire Polish coast. The red tower towering over the beach attracts tourists all season long. Here's everything you need to know about it before visiting.

Technical data

The lighthouse is one of the tallest on the Polish coast. The tower itself is 49.8 meters high, and the light is located at 51.1 meters above sea level. This allows its light to be visible from a distance of approximately 43 km in good weather conditions. It is the third tallest lighthouse on the Polish coast—a fact Gąski is rightly proud of.

History

The lighthouse was built between 1876 and 1878 and commissioned in 1878. Construction materials were transported by ship and unloaded at a specially constructed pier. After the devastation of World War II, the lighthouse was rekindled in 1948 and has served sailors continuously ever since. Until 1945, the town bore the German name Funkenhagen.

Sightseeing - 190 steps to the top

The lighthouse is open to the public, most often during the tourist season. 190 steps lead to the top—the climb requires some physical fitness, but the view is worth the effort. The viewing gallery offers a panoramic view of the entire stretch of coastline: to the west you can see Sarbinowo, and to the east Chłopy, Mielno, and Unieście. On a clear day, it's one of the most beautiful viewpoints in this part of the Baltic Sea.

Practical tips

Before your visit, it's worth checking current opening hours and ticket prices, as they can vary seasonally. The best time to visit is on a sunny morning, when visibility is at its best. The narrow, spiral staircase may be challenging for those with a fear of heights or mobility issues—keep this in mind. After descending, take a walk along the beach at the foot of the lighthouse, where you can take the best photos of the red tower against the sea and dunes.

The lighthouse in Gąski is not only a technical monument, but also a symbol of the town – a point to which one returns every time one visits this part of the Baltic Sea.