Utsikt fra Øyna. Foto: Wil-Lee Wright
Experience Inderøy and The Golden Road
Take a detour from the E6 and experience The Golden Road and everything that beautiful Inderøy has to offer. Taste local food and drinks, meet the local producer and see local art.
Population: 6,846
Area: 379.62 km²
Highest peak: Storknuken – 505 metres above sea level
Largest lake: Meltingen
Municipal centre: Straumen
Discover the charm of Inderøy – a picturesque gem in the heart of Trøndelag. Scroll on to explore more about our lovely municipality, and let us guide you through unforgettable experiences in Inderøy and along The Golden Road (Den Gyldne Omvei). You’ll also find our best tips on where to enjoy a delicious meal and get a good night’s sleep.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Inderøy municipality
Inderøy is beautifully situated at the innermost part of the Trondheimsfjord, encompassing the large Inderøya peninsula, Røra on the eastern side of the fjord, and Mosvik on the Fosen peninsula, just across the Skarnsundet strait. The municipality is shaped by its rich traditions in farming, forestry, and a vibrant cultural life – all vital parts of the local economy.
Here you’ll find some of Norway’s most idyllic cultural landscapes, renowned for their distinctive light that has, for centuries, inspired artists and writers alike. Inderøy offers a long and scenic shoreline, well-maintained outdoor recreation areas, and a wealth of fascinating history.
Ideally located, Inderøy is just a 90-minute drive from both Trondheim and Namdalen. It also enjoys excellent transport links, with easy access to the airport, railway, and the road E6, which runs right through the municipality.
Foto: Steinar Johansen
Golden cornfields
View of Straumen from Roelshøgda
The Golden Road – A journey through beautiful cultural landscapes
The Golden Road winds its way through the picturesque cultural landscape along County Roads 761 and 755, with plenty of charming side roads to explore along the way. This scenic route offers a wide range of experiences and activities to delight visitors of all ages.
Discover delicious locally produced food, unique places to stay, cosy cafés, and inspiring arts and crafts. Along the way, you’ll find thought-provoking exhibitions, fascinating sights, and authentic farm visits that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and traditions.
The Golden Road truly has something for everyone – inviting you to slow down, savour the beauty of nature, and uncover the many hidden treasures along the route.
Foto: Lena Johnsen
Foto: Lena Johnsen
Straumen – settlement
Norway’s second strongest tidal current flows through the strait connecting the Trondheimsfjord and the Borgenfjord – and it’s this powerful natural force that gave the municipal center Straumen its name.
Nestled around this tidal stream, you’ll find a charming village of traditional wooden houses, home to a vibrant community filled with galleries, cosy cafés, and delightful independent shops. It’s the perfect place to wander, explore, and soak up the local atmosphere.
Read more about tidal current and mill use
The tidal current between the Trondheimsfjord and Borgenfjorden (also known as Børgin) is one of the strongest maelstroms in Northern Europe. Four times a day, immense volumes of water are pushed through the narrow strait, creating a powerful and awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.
This area has a rich history as a coastal settlement. It was once home to an inn and brewery, the village’s first merchant and baker, and the local ferryman who ensured transport across the strait.
In 1885, mining engineer and architect Johan Martin Helgesen saw the potential to harness this tidal force as a renewable source of energy. He built a unique tidal mill on a small headland at the mouth of Børgin – the only one of its kind in Scandinavia. The mill remained in operation until 1892.
The original mill building, measuring an impressive 23 by 11.5 metres, was dismantled around 1920. However, its foundation – cleverly constructed with double walls to optimise the water flow – remained, though it gradually fell into disrepair.
Today, the walls have been beautifully restored, and a scale model of the tidal mill now stands proudly on the site as a tribute to this remarkable piece of engineering and local history.
One of Straumen’s historic highlights is Klokkarstu – a charming red-painted house from the 18th century, now home to the delightful second-hand shop Kjerringa me’ Straumen. Among Straumen’s many attractions, you’ll also find Nils Aas Art Workshop, Galleri Mitsel , Inderøy Landhandleri, Inderøy Butchery Shop, Marens Bakery, Jostu Shop and Candle Workshop, and the historic Rødbrygga – a beautifully preserved waterside building where today’s restaurant guests can savour a taste of the past.
At Bunadsaum, you can get up close to traditional craftsmanship, with the creation of both the Nord-Trøndelag Bunad and the Norsk Fjellbygdbunad. Browse the impressive selection of finished bunads in the shop, or peek into the workrooms where the sewing magic happens. Just around the corner is Primstaven Bookshop and Antiquarian, a true treasure trove for book lovers – offering everything from rare old volumes to modern reads, plus LP records, crystals, and unique gift items. Primstaven also hosts a regular cultural pub and live music events, featuring artists from both Norway and abroad.
Just a short stroll from the centre, you’ll discover the award-winning Muustrøparken Sculpture Park – a tranquil space rich in both art and history. The park features a variety of sculptures by Nils Aas, an old mill house, and even a traditional skotthyll pitch. At its heart stands Ringstu, one of the oldest preserved buildings in Inderøy. At the mouth of the Granaelva river, you can cross the historic Muus Bridge, built in 1816, and admire Flyndre – a sculpture by Nils Aas, complete with a unique sound installation by Øyvind Brandtsegg. You can experience the sculpture’s story and sound at www.flyndresang.no.
Over on Sundsøya, near the Straum Bridge and the strait between the Trondheimsfjord and Borgenfjord, you’ll find Saga – Centre for Photography. Stay overnight in a former sawmill, enjoy a sauna session, or explore the summer exhibitions in the gallery. Nearby is Bellissima – a charming gift and Christmas shop full of magical finds.
Thanks to Inderøy’s fertile soil and vast open skies, the region is perfectly suited for high-quality, small-scale food production. Among the local delicacies crafted in Straumen is Inderøysodd – a cherished variation of the traditional Trøndersk meat soup, rich in heritage and flavour.
Straumen – Norway’s most attractive town centre
In the summer of 2020, Straumen was proudly named Norway’s Most Attractive Town Centre, receiving the prestigious Attraktiv by award. This national recognition highlights the importance of making the most of a place’s unique character and resources – and how these can be nurtured to support sustainable community development rooted in inclusion and togetherness.
The jury praised Straumen as a shining example for other small towns. By carefully building on what already exists and developing it with care and thoughtfulness, Straumen has cultivated a strong and distinctive identity – one that both residents and visitors can truly be proud of.
Foto: Nils Aas Kunstverksted
Nils Aas (1933 - 2004)
Nils Aas was born and raised in Straumen, and became one of the leading artists of his generation. He is widely regarded as one of Norway’s most significant sculptors, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Norwegian art and culture.
Skarnsund Bridge – an iconic landmark
The Skarnsund Bridge links Mosvik on the Fosen Peninsula with the rest of Inderøy, and stands as an awe-inspiring example of modern engineering. This striking cable-stayed bridge is among the longest of its kind in the world. Its iconic red cables stretch skyward like a giant harp, creating a breathtaking silhouette against the sky.
Beneath the bridge lies Skarnsundet – a favourite spot for both divers and anglers. This narrow sound connects the Trondheimsfjord to the Beitstadfjord and is renowned for its powerful tidal currents and rich marine life.
In 2008, the Skarnsund Bridge was granted protected status by the Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage, a true testament to its architectural and cultural importance.
Experiences in the Mosvik / Framverran area
On the far side of the Skarnsund Bridge, in the village of Venneshamn in Framverran, you’ll find Selsthloftet – a cosy farm shop and café – and the fascinating Kalsen General Store Museum, offering a unique glimpse into the local history of the area. Framverran is also the proud hometown of ski legend Petter Northug. Through the Northug Experience, you can visit the farm and the surroundings where he grew up. Don’t miss the golden statue of Petter, unveiled in 2024 – a shining tribute to his extraordinary sporting career.
In the heart of Mosvik, you’ll find Mosvik Brygge, Jekta Fjordstue, and a local grocery shop that caters to most everyday needs. Mosvik Museum, located in the old Grande schoolhouse, features a varied and engaging exhibition, including historical farming tools from the village’s past.
For those with a passion for both history and the outdoors, the area also offers cultural heritage trails – Mosvik and Mosvik/Selsetvika – developed by the Mosvik Museum. These year-round walking routes invite you to explore the rich cultural landscape and history of this beautiful corner of Inderøy.
Gullstatuen av Petter Northug. Foto: Explorative AS
Foto: Dina Rindsem v/Explorative AS
Discover Inderøy from the seat of your bike
Inderøy is a beloved destination for cycling holidays – and it’s easy to see why. Whether on two wheels or on foot, you can explore ancient travel routes winding their way through stunning cultural landscapes, stretching from fjord to fjord. Along the way, you’ll encounter historic burial mounds, standing stones, and a rich natural environment that adds a truly special touch to your journey.
Between bike rides, there’s plenty of time to pop into local galleries, browse charming shops, and savour delicious meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Inderøy offers the perfect blend of outdoor activity, cultural discovery, and culinary delight.
National Cycle Route 1 – The Coastal Route
Norway’s National Cycle (Route 1), known as The Coastal Route, runs all the way from Svinesund in the south to Kirkenes in the far north. As it winds its way through the Innherred region, the route crosses Meltingen and continues through Inderøy before heading on to Steinkjer.
This stretch offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Inderøy at its finest – a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture, all from the saddle of your bike.
A trip around the Borgenfjord
Scenic 32 km Cycle Tour Around Borgenfjorden
This lovely 32 km cycling route takes you on a picturesque loop around Borgenfjorden, crossing through the municipalities of Inderøy and Steinkjer. The trail winds its way past traditional Trønder farms and gently rolling cultural landscapes, offering a peaceful and authentic countryside experience.
Highlights along the way include Mære Church, Gjørv Gård, and Verdal Vestre. Don’t miss the chance to take a delightful detour to Gangstad Gårdsysteri, known for its award-winning cheeses.
Please note that parts of the route pass through private farmyards – so do be respectful and mindful as you ride.
Ved Mære kirke langs Borgenfjoden. Foto: Explorative AS
Langs kulturstien Straumen – Vangshylla. Foto: Explorative AS
Hiking options and cultural trail in Inderøy
Lace up your walking shoes and discover the many beautiful cultural and nature trails that wind their way through Inderøy’s varied landscape! Stroll along the Cultural Trail from Verdalsgrenda to the charming centre of Straumen, or enjoy the picturesque Straumen–Vangshylla route.
You can also follow in the footsteps of a local legend on the Northug Trail, wander through history along the Letnes Cultural Trail, or explore the Heritage Trails in Mosvik and Selsetvika/Venneshamn.
Each path offers its own blend of nature, heritage and local charm – perfect for a day of peaceful discovery.
Ski slopes in Inderøy
Visiting in winter? Discover Inderøy on skis
If you’re planning a winter visit, we highly recommend a trip to the Petter Northug Ski Stadium, a true highlight for ski enthusiasts. Other great spots include Vårlonken in Mosvik and the scenic Solbergrunden in Framverran.
Inderøy offers a number of well-maintained cross-country ski trails – and we’ve put together a handy overview of some of the best routes to help you plan your adventure.
Happy skiing – and enjoy the snowy magic of Inderøy!
