Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse, sand dunes, Hjørring Denmark

Nothing lasts forever

Built upon swirling dunes next to the North Sea, this lighthouse is destined to be swallowed by the serene landscape that surrounds it at some point in the future. First lit in 1900, Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse served the shipping lanes for almost 68 years, but wind-piled sands and rapid coastal erosion forced its retirement. The tower was expected to be totally buried by 2023, but a bout of clever engineering placed it on rails and moved it 75 metres inland, hopefully buying it several more decades. But as many a lighthouse-watching sailor can tell you, the sea can claim its due without warning, so see this unique Denmark landmark while it still stands amid the sands.