Skjennungstua closes after sudden death of owner

The popular Skjennungstua cabin in Oslo’s Nordmarka forest has closed for service through July following the sudden death of its operator, John Petter Martinussen (59).

Martinussen died unexpectedly on Friday afternoon while in central Oslo purchasing supplies for the cabin, his family announced on Skjennungstua’s Facebook and Instagram pages. Emergency services were called but could not revive him.

“We need time to determine how Skjennungstua will be run going forward,” the family wrote, adding that the cabin will remain closed for service through July. Staff will still be present in July for routine summer cleaning, and visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy the grounds.

Martinussen had managed the cabin, a well-known stop for hikers, cyclists, and skiers, for the past 15 years, according to Nordre Aker Budstikke. The family’s social media posts have drawn numerous tributes from regular visitors.