Nestled at the heart of the Scandinavian nation of Norway, the picturesque region of Trøndelag is home to beautiful fjords, expansive green countryside and snow-capped mountains – making it a breath-takingly beautiful place to take a break from the stresses and strains of modern life and reconnect with nature.
Despite being something of a hidden gem, Trøndelag has been garnering plenty of international attention this year after having been named the European Region of Gastronomy for 2022. This prestigious and highly coveted status makes it the perfect spot for roving foodies who love to travel the world in search of the finest culinary delights – and from hearty and traditional dishes to creative tasting menus, this place has it all.
All brought to life using the freshest local ingredients, which grow in abundance throughout the year, Trøndelag is a playground and a haven of inspiration for Norway’s very best chefs, who have created some veritable culinary masterpieces you just have to experience at least once whilst in the country.
And from epic scenery and breath-taking fjords to quaint and colourful neighbourhoods – not to mention a whole host of incredible artisans, there’s plenty to see and do here besides, too. Here’s all you need to know about planning a luxury getaway to Trøndelag, from where to stay and what to eat, to how to spend your time.
Where to stay
There are plenty of options for luxury seekers when it comes to finding accommodation in Trøndelag, and here, you’ll find some unique lodgings that exude the typical Scandinavian vibe – as well as some more traditional luxury hideaways in which to base yourself.
When staying in Trondheim – Norway’s second city – checking in at The Britannia Hotel is a no-brainer for anyone seeking opulence and relaxation in the heart of this intriguing city. Established way back in 1870, this luxurious five-star establishment has a rich history behind it as the hub of mid-Norway, and has played host over the years to everyone from Arctic explorers and politicians to celebrities and even royalty.
The hotel reopened following an extensive and impressive $150 million refurbishment back in 2019, just prior to the pandemic – and after two years of ongoing lockdowns and disruptions to travel, is now welcoming international guests to experience its lavish new look and feel. You can expect unique bespoke furnishings, fine linens and chic marble bathrooms and a spectacular spa and fitness centre in which you can relax and unwind after a long day out exploring, or burn off some excess calories after sampling an abundance of delectable local cuisine.
On that note, there are four restaurants on site, including the Michelin-starred Speilsalen – an essential dining spot for foodies – and the majestic Palmehaven, where a decadent breakfast is served each morning. There’s also a wine bar where you can choose from a vast selection of over 2,500 different wines from across the globe.
A little further afield, the Øyna Cultural Landscape Hotel is built into the hillside overlooking Trondheim fjord, and guests can enjoy breath-taking panoramic views of the dramatic landscape from the floor-to-ceiling windows in their rooms, as well as the Skybar, where you can do so over your preferred tipple.
The rooms themselves are typically minimalistic, with simple furnishings and a cloud-like bed – leaving the location to do the talking. In the morning, you can head down and enjoy a decadent traditional Norwegian breakfast, which comprises a host of locally sourced meats, cheeses, eggs, freshly baked bread and a selection of condiments, all washed down with the obligatory cup of coffee sourced from a local roastery.
If you’re intrigued by the abundance of produce grown in the region and want to learn a little more about what’s available here – and, are willing to give up your home comforts for a night, then Villnis Farm, nestled deep in the Trøndelag countryside along the Golden Road, is a must. Not only can you enjoy a peaceful night under the stars in one of the farm’s comfortable and beautifully designed canvas glamping yurts, but you can also learn a thing or two about foraging while you’re there. If you’re in need of a digital detox, then there’s no better place to switch off and immerse yourself in nature, and with a cosy bed and wood-burning stove to keep you warm, you’ll have everything you need.
Where to eat
As the 2022 European Region of Gastronomy, it’s perhaps unsurprising that Trøndelag has plenty to offer when it comes to culinary experiences. With a host of small farms, breweries and roasteries located along the Golden Road, great local ingredients are available here in abundance, and are easily accessible, too.
Trøndelag’s finest restaurants have incorporated them into their dishes and menus with pride to take diners on a unique culinary journey, with the Experience restaurant perhaps one of the most exciting examples of what’s on offer here.
Set in a rather unassuming barn on a rural farm, it might not look like your average fine dining restaurant – but with Norwegian chef Kim Sjøbakk, who has previously worked at Gordon Ramsay’s Maze and The Dorchester in London, at the helm, it quickly becomes clear that appearances can be deceptive once inside. Immersed in the rustic surroundings of this converted bar and restaurant, an evening here is exactly as the name suggests – an experience. The 16-course tasting menu, which changes to reflect the latest seasonal produce, comprises a host of decadent dishes.
To give you a taster, in springtime, you can expect to start with delicate appetisers of salmon crisp with fennel and scallop, before moving onto earthy trout with tart yet sweet apple and refreshing cucumber. Main courses might include miso pollock with bok choi, or reindeer with baby garlic and leek – while for something sweet, if you still have room, then the blueberry souffle is a must.
Each dish is expertly matched with the perfect wine pairing, with Kim’s wife – who also happens to be a knowledgeable sommelier – on hand to talk diners through each one.
What makes Experience a – well, experience – isn’t just the wonderful flavour combinations and beautifully presented dishes, or even the impeccable service. The process of sourcing lies at the heart of everything Kim does here, and there is a story behind every ingredient. His passion for the produce he sources from the region is evident in every detail, and an evening here is the ultimate showcase of just why Trøndelag is so deserving of its gastronomic accolade this year.
In Trondheim, tables at the Michelin-starred Speilsalen are highly sought-after, so if you’re keen to dine here then be sure to book well in advance. Set in opulent surroundings with high ceilings and plush furnishings making for a distinctly regal feel, here you’ll be treated to a show-stopping tasting menu devised by renowned chef and Bocuse d’Or silver medallist Christopher Davidsen, with an element of surprise maintained throughout.
Starting with locally sourced caviar and featuring fresh ingredients such as King crab and aurora salmon amidst beautifully presented and intricately designed dishes, each course is a masterpiece and a work of art in an aesthetic sense as much as it is a mind-blowing fusion of delicate flavours and textures. All washed down with a perfectly matched champagne flight, a leisurely lunch or dinner here is a decadent way to round off a visit to Trondheim in style.
What to do
The picturesque region of Trøndelag looks like it could have come straight out of a painting, and is characterised by rolling green hills, plunging cliffs and immense fjords – which makes simply sitting back and enjoying the scenery one of the most enjoyable things to do when visiting.
One of the best ways to do just that without wasting time? By touring the Golden Road. Not only is it a scenic and decidedly Instagram-worthy journey at every stage, but you’ll also have the chance to visit Trøndelag’s wonderful selection of artisans along the way, with 22 small makers in total linking up along the route to create an intriguing cultural tour of the Inderøy peninsula that can be easily completed in a day.
A route often referred to as the ‘Golden Detour’ by locals because it requires a detour from Norway’s main highway to get to it, the Golden Road also offers a chance to visit local farms, breweries and distilleries. At the Inderøy Distillery, you can sample the region’s famous spirit, aquavit – which is a punchy and potent drink that is traditionally enjoyed by locals at Christmastime and is guaranteed to warm you up on even the chilliest of days. The aquavit produced here is the first in which all raw materials used are Norwegian, with seeds and herbs harvested from along the Golden Road. Ingredients include Inderøy caraway, watercress, dandelion and spruce shoots, all sweetened with Inderøy honey.
If you’re the active type, then there are plenty of hiking routes in the region to suit all levels and abilities. Moskusstien is considered to be one of the best-developed networks of hiking trails, with routes ranging from 4.5 to 15 kilometres, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some shy musk oxen along the way. In Trondheim, Ladestien is one of the most popular hiking trails, and stretches for almost eight kilometres along the Trondheim fjord. If you’re up for the challenge, then rock-climbing expeditions and guided cycling tours are also available.
In Trondheim itself, there’s plenty to see and do, too. Taking a stroll to Bakklandet – the city’s oldest neighbourhood – will allow you to take in the quaint, pastel-hued buildings and cobbled streets along the way, with plenty of trendy riverfront restaurants, cafés and coffee shops to duck into for a bite to eat or a warming drink. Whilst you’re in the area, spare some time to visit the 17th-century Kristiansten Fortress and museum and meander through the Gåsaparken park before crossing back over the Old Town Bridge to the museums and Gothic castle of Trondheim’s more modern city centre.
Trondheim by Boat offers a unique way to explore the city from the water if you prefer a different perspective, with daily departures from the city centre year-round.
Depending on what time of year you’re visiting, Norway’s national day, which takes place in May, is an experience you won’t want to miss if you’re in Trondheim in the spring. ‘Constitution Day’ – or as it’s known in Norway, ‘Syttende Mai’ or ‘Nasjonaldagen’ is an official public holiday that is observed on 17th May, and sees the streets of Trondheim and other cities across Norway come alive with parades, parties and all-round celebration. The atmosphere is quite simply electric, and the chance to join in the fun and see the locals don traditional dress for the occasion is something you’ll never forget.
Factbox
Norwegian offers daily flights from Gatwick to Trondheim, starting from £58.30 one way. Flights also run three times a week from Manchester from £61.50 per person. norwegian.com
A one-night stay at the Oyna Cultural Landscape Hotel currently starts from £99 per person based on two sharing a double room on bed and breakfast basis. oyna.no
A one-night stay at the five star Britannia Hotel currently costs from £118 per person in a superior room based on two sharing a double room on bed and breakfast basis. britannia.no
For more information about Trøndelag visit exploretrondelag.com.
