Lange Nelle Lighthouse in Ostend

A Legendary Beacon of the Belgian Coast

Standing tall against the North Sea skyline, the Lange Nelle lighthouse is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Ostend, Belgium.

This elegant white tower with its distinctive blue wave-like stripes has guided ships safely into the harbor
for decades and remains a symbol of the city’s strong maritime heritage.

At more than 60 metres high, Lange Nelle is the tallest lighthouse in Belgium and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Belgian coast.

Although you cannot climb the lighthouse today, its striking design and fascinating history make it one of the most photographed landmarks in Ostend. Whether you are a tourist exploring the coastline or a history enthusiast interested in maritime stories, Lange Nelle offers a unique glimpse into the seafaring past and present of this vibrant port city.

The Story Behind Lange Nelle: A Lighthouse Through the Ages

The history of lighthouses in Ostend goes back several centuries. Long before modern navigation systems existed, sailors relied on simple coastal fires and wooden beacons to guide them safely into the harbor. By the late eighteenth century, Ostend had become an important port, and a proper lighthouse was needed to support growing maritime traffic.

The first official lighthouse near Ostend was built in 1771. At the time, the region was under Austrian rule, and the tower served as both a beacon and a signal post for ships approaching the harbor. Early lighting systems were basic, using open fires fueled by coal and later oil. Over time, improvements such as lenses and stronger lamps made the lighthouse more effective, but the rapid expansion of Ostend meant that the original tower eventually became less useful.

In 1860, a second lighthouse was constructed on the eastern side of the harbor. This impressive brick tower stood around 60 metres tall and featured a spiral staircase with more than 250 steps. Its powerful light could be seen far out at sea and quickly became an essential navigational aid for ships entering Ostend. The lighthouse also became a local landmark, admired for its elegant design and strategic position along the coast.

Unfortunately, the turbulent events of the First World War brought an end to this structure. In 1915, the lighthouse was destroyed during wartime operations. Temporary solutions were put in place to guide ships, including makeshift towers and restored older structures, but a permanent lighthouse was needed once peace returned.

In 1926, a third lighthouse rose on the same site. Built from concrete and equipped with modern technology for its time, it featured electric lighting and a powerful rotating beam. Painted with distinctive markings to make it visible by day, this tower served Ostend’s harbor for nearly two decades. However, as the Second World War came to an end in 1944, retreating forces destroyed the lighthouse once again, leaving the port without its guiding light.

After the war, a temporary structure was erected while plans were made for a new permanent lighthouse. Construction of the current tower began in the late 1940s, and in 1949 the modern Lange Nelle lighthouse officially came into operation. Since then, it has stood as a symbol of resilience and renewal for the city of Ostend.

Why It’s Called “Lange Nelle”

The nickname “Lange Nelle,” which translates loosely to “Tall Nellie,” has become the lighthouse’s affectionate local name. No one is entirely sure where the nickname originated, but it reflects the personal connection many residents feel with the tower. Rather than simply being a functional structure, Lange Nelle is seen as a character in Ostend’s story — a familiar presence watching over the coastline day and night.

Originally, the lighthouse was a plain concrete tower. In the 1990s, it was given its current artistic paint design featuring sweeping blue lines that resemble waves wrapping around the white structure. This modern look has made the lighthouse even more distinctive and photogenic, turning it into one of the most recognizable landmarks along the Belgian coast.

Lange Nelle Today – Still Guiding the Way

Even in an era of GPS navigation and digital mapping, the Lange Nelle lighthouse continues to play an active role in maritime safety. Its powerful light still shines across the North Sea, helping ships orient themselves as they approach Ostend’s harbor. The lighthouse operates automatically and no longer has resident keepers, but it remains an essential navigational aid.

The tower emits a bright white light in a recognizable pattern, visible far out at sea on clear nights. For sailors, this light is a reassuring signal that they are nearing the Belgian coastline. For visitors on land, it is a beautiful reminder of Ostend’s connection to the sea.

Although the lighthouse is not open to the public, the area around it is accessible and worth exploring. Located on the eastern side of the harbor near Fort Napoleon, the lighthouse stands in a district that has recently seen significant redevelopment. Walking or cycling through the neighborhood offers excellent views of the tower and the surrounding port area.

Visitors often combine a stop at Lange Nelle with nearby attractions. Fort Napoleon, a historic fortress built during the Napoleonic era, is just a short walk away and offers exhibitions and panoramic views. The marina, fish market, and seaside promenades are also within easy reach, making this part of Ostend ideal for a relaxed coastal walk.

A Symbol of Ostend’s Maritime Heritage

Over the decades, Lange Nelle has become more than just a navigational tool. It is a symbol of Ostend itself — a city shaped by the sea, trade, and travel. The lighthouse has survived wars, reconstructions, and modernization, continuing to guide ships and inspire visitors.

Local residents are deeply attached to their lighthouse. When discussions arose about reducing the brightness of its light due to nearby residential developments, many people voiced strong support for preserving the lighthouse in its full glory. The overwhelming public response demonstrated just how important Lange Nelle remains to the identity of Ostend.

For tourists, the lighthouse offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and coastal atmosphere. Whether viewed up close from the harbor district or from a distance along the beach, Lange Nelle stands as a reminder of the enduring relationship between Ostend and the North Sea.

Visiting Lange Nelle

If you are exploring Ostend or traveling along the Belgian coast, visiting the Lange Nelle lighthouse is highly recommended. While you cannot enter the tower itself, the surrounding area provides excellent viewpoints and photo opportunities. The lighthouse is especially impressive at sunset or after dark, when its beam sweeps across the horizon.

Combine your visit with a walk along the harbor, a stop at Fort Napoleon, or a meal in one of Ostend’s seafood restaurants to fully experience the maritime charm of the city. As one of Belgium’s most iconic coastal landmarks, Lange Nelle offers visitors a memorable glimpse into both the history and the living present of this dynamic seaside destination.