Kaura Lighthouse

Kaura Lighthouse is a coastal lighthouse in Åfjord Municipality, in Trøndelag county, central Norway. Its 22-metre (72 ft) tower stands on the small island of Kaura, right at the mouth of the Brandsfjorden. It is one of those places on the Norwegian coast where a working landmark has slowly turned into a destination.

Where is Kaura Lighthouse?

The island lies at the entrance to the Brandsfjorden. The nearest villages on the mainland are Bessaker, about 9 kilometres (5.6 mi) to the east, and Roan, about 8 kilometres (5.0 mi) to the southeast. Because the lighthouse sits out on its own skerry, you see it from the water or from the outer coast rather than from a road. Åfjord itself is a coastal municipality on the Trøndelag shoreline, where the fjord country opens onto the open sea.

When was it built, and why?

The lighthouse was established in 1931 as a leading light. Its job was to guide ships along this stretch of coast, including traffic heading north and south across the Frohavet sea area. It was automated in 1959, which meant the keepers were no longer needed. It is often described as one of the last staffed lighthouses on the Norwegian coast to be built.

What is the tower like?

The tower is made of cast iron and rests on a concrete base. That choice of material makes sense for such an exposed position: the island has little shelter, and waves and weather reach it from the open sea. A crew of three lived at the station. Bad weather and difficult landing conditions could cut the station off from the mainland for periods of time.

What happened after automation?

After the lighthouse was unmanned, its light was switched to a gas lamp. In 1984 it was converted to solar power, so the light could run with very little human presence. In 2000 the station was protected as a cultural heritage site, recognising it as part of the history of Norwegian coastal navigation.

Can you visit?

Since 2012 a friends' association has leased the lighthouse and arranges day visits when conditions allow. Because the island is small and the sea can be rough, trips depend on weather, and it is worth checking the association's current information before planning a visit.

Where does the name come from?

The lighthouse takes its name from the skerry it stands on. The name is thought to derive from an old word meaning "to curl", which fits a place known for strong currents and waves.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Kaura Lighthouse? The tower is 22 metres (72 ft) tall.

When was it built? In 1931, and it was automated in 1959.

Which county is it in? It is in Åfjord Municipality, Trøndelag county, Norway.

Is it open to visitors? A friends' association runs day visits when conditions allow, so access depends on weather and the season.

What is it made of? A cast-iron tower on a concrete base.