Russarö
A former military fortress island off Hanko, with a red-and-white lighthouse and coastal guns. Long a restricted zone, it now opens for guided tours in summer.
Russarö lies about 5 km south of Hanko. Its red-and-white lighthouse was built in the 19th century. Russian and Finnish coastal defence forces were once stationed on the island, which still retains 234 mm coastal guns from the 1930s, gun emplacements and barracks. It was a military restricted zone for many years. In recent summers it has opened for guided tours, with boats departing from East Harbour in Hanko. Guides explain the history of the fortress, and visitors can stroll the island and enjoy the sea views. Advance booking is required, and sailings are limited.
Opening hours
Summer guided tours (reservation required)
Nearby sights
- Hanko Fortress (Gustavsvärn)
- Tulliniemi (Hanko Cape)
- Hanko Eastern Harbour & Villas
- Hanko Church
- Hanko Water Tower
- Hanko Casino & Beaches
- Café Four Winds (Neljän Tuulen Tupa)
- Hanko Front Museum