Places with a story
Hellisøy fyr
Hellisøy fyr stands on a small island southwest of Fedje, where a cast-iron tower marks an exposed coastal route. The lighthouse complex brings together engineering, keeper families and the daily work of maintaining a light beside the open sea.
The place12
Established in 1855, Hellisøy was Norway's second cast-iron lighthouse tower after Eigerøy. Its sections were cast at Bærums Verk and Horten, then assembled on the island with an internal brick lining. The red tower and contrasting bands make it a recognisable part of Fedje's maritime landscape, while the surrounding houses show that a lighthouse station was also a small workplace and home.
History and local connections1
A fire after a lightning strike destroyed the original dwelling in 1902. Two new houses followed in 1903, one for the keeper and one for the assistant. Electricity reached the station in 1954, and staffing ended in 1992. Its protected status dates from 2000, recognising the buildings and equipment as evidence of coastal navigation history.
What to look for32
From the shore, look at the relationship between the tower, keeper houses and the water crossing separating the station from the main island. Accounts of the station also describe livestock kept by its families and meteorological observations. Those details add ordinary domestic and scientific work to the familiar image of a tower warning ships offshore.
Planning a visit32
Destination Fedje publishes contact information for guided visits and accommodation enquiries. Norsk Fyrforening notes that the former municipal lease ended from 2025 and that a new lease arrangement was being established. Confirm the current operator, crossing and availability before travelling; historical accommodation descriptions alone do not establish a booking for your chosen date.
Sources
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