Struten Lighthouse – a small islet in the outer Oslofjord

Struten Lighthouse (Norwegian: Struten fyr) is a coastal lighthouse on a tiny islet in the outer Oslofjord, in the municipality of Fredrikstad in Østfold, Norway. It sits south of the island of Hankø, a name well known to sailors for its regattas and summer trips on the fjord. The light has been in operation since 1907, and since 1985 the station has been automated, with no keeper living on the islet.

Why was a lighthouse built on Struten?

Before the lighthouse, the spot was marked in a different way. In 1901 a sound buoy, known locally as "Strutekua", was laid just north of the islet. It warned crews with an acoustic signal, but it was evidently not enough: a few years later, in 1907, a permanent navigation light was established on the islet. In the outer Oslofjord, where the route runs among rocks and small skerries, such a landmark mattered a great deal for shipping.

What did the old station look like?

The original structure was modest. The lighthouse was a square white wooden tower attached to the corner of the keeper's dwelling, topped by a red lantern. Combining home and tower in a single building was typical of small stations where the crew lived right beside the light. For almost eight decades people lived on the islet to tend the light, until automation in 1985.

Is the light still active?

Yes. It remains a working aid to navigation, operated by the Norwegian Coastal Administration, Kystverket. It now shines from a newer solar-powered tower, so no permanent human presence is required.

Can you stay overnight?

The old lighthouse building has been turned into accommodation. The Old Struten Lighthouse Association (Gamle Struten Fyr) has an agreement with the state and runs overnight stays there. For anyone who likes seclusion, it is a rare chance to spend time on a small island surrounded by open fjord.

How do you get to the islet?

Struten lies out at sea, so you need a boat. Transport is usually arranged privately, and in rough weather landing on the islet can be difficult. It is wise to leave some slack in your plans and agree the details with a boat operator or the association before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Struten Lighthouse? On an islet in the outer Oslofjord, south of the island of Hankø, in the municipality of Fredrikstad in Østfold.

When was it built? The light was established in 1907. Earlier, in 1901, a sound buoy was placed nearby.

Does a keeper live there? No. The station was automated in 1985.

Can you sleep in the lighthouse? Yes, through the association that runs overnight stays in the former lighthouse building.

How do you get there? By boat, usually with privately arranged transport. Landing can be difficult in bad weather.