Ulkokalla Lighthouse: A Beacon of Maritime History

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Discover Ulkokalla Lighthouse in Kalajoki: a historic beacon offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Finland's maritime heritage.

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Ulkokalla Lighthouse

Ulkokalla Lighthouse, standing on a small island off Kalajoki, is a symbol of Finland's maritime past. Built in 1872, this historical landmark guides sailors through the Bothnian Bay and offers visitors stunning coastal views and a glimpse into the life of lighthouse keepers.

A brief summary to Ulkokalla Lighthouse

Ulkokalla, Kalajoki, 85100, FI

Local tips

Visit during sunset for breathtaking photography opportunities.
Check local weather conditions to ensure a pleasant visit.
Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lighthouse while taking in the views.
Consider visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Adventure Park Pakka

Adventure Park Pakka: Thrills in the Treetops of Kalajoki

Kalajoki Sand Dunes

Kalajoki Sand Dunes: A Finnish Coastal Treasure

Lahdenkrooppi Beach

Lahdenkrooppi Beach: Coastal Serenity in Kokkola

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Ulkokalla Lighthouse using public transportation, take a bus from Oulu or Kokkola to Kalajoki. Buses run frequently; the journey from Oulu takes around 1.5 hours, while from Kokkola, it takes about 1 hour. Once you arrive at Kalajoki bus station, take a taxi to the ferry terminal, roughly a 10-minute drive. Taxi fares can vary, but expect to pay around €15-€20. At the ferry terminal, purchase a ticket for the ferry to Ulkokalla Island, costing about €10 per person. The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes, offering beautiful views of the coastline.
Car

If you're traveling by car, start your journey from the city of Kokkola. Head north on Route 8 towards Kalajoki. After approximately 50 kilometers, take the exit toward Kalajoki. Continue on Route 27 for about 10 kilometers until you reach Kalajoki. Once in Kalajoki, follow local signs to the coastline. The road will take you towards the beach area and eventually lead you to the ferry terminal for Ulkokalla Lighthouse. Parking at the ferry terminal typically costs around €5. From the ferry terminal, purchase a ferry ticket to Ulkokalla Island for approximately €10 per person. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes.

Discover more about Ulkokalla Lighthouse

Ulkokalla Lighthouse, located on the small island of Ulkokalla, approximately 20 kilometers from the coast of Kalajoki, is more than just a navigational aid; it's a testament to the region's rich maritime history. The island itself is small, only about 400 meters long and 200 meters wide, making the lighthouse a prominent feature of the landscape. Constructed in 1871 and lit in 1872, the lighthouse was designed by Axel Hampus Dahlström, a renowned architect of Finnish lighthouses. The 13.7-meter brick tower, though the smallest of Dahlström's lighthouses, has played a vital role in guiding ships through the rocky waters of the Bothnian Bay for over a century. Originally, there were plans to build the lighthouse on Maakalla, but insurance companies and shipmasters wanted it built further out, closer to the ship routes. For many years, the island was home to fishing families, and in 1856, they were granted permission to light signal fires to help fishermen navigate home. The lighthouse keepers lived on the island until 1974 when the lighthouse was automated. The lighthouse has been modernized over the years, with the addition of fog sirens, steel masts, and solar panels. The lighting equipment was updated in 1961 when the lighthouse was electrified and again in 1986 when a dioptric plastic lens and LED light were installed. Today, Ulkokalla is uninhabited, but some of the buildings have been refurbished for tourist use. Visitors can explore the island, admire the lighthouse, and imagine the lives of those who once lived and worked there. The lighthouse offers informative displays detailing its construction and role in maritime activities. The surrounding landscape is rich with flora and fauna, offering visitors a chance to experience the diverse ecosystems that thrive along the coastline.