The Golden Detour: A Hidden Gem in Norway
For many, the Golden Detour might seem like an unnecessary detour from the main roads of Norway. However, for Liv Elin Olsen, a farmer’s wife from Inderøy, it is a route worth taking. She finds it puzzling that more people do not choose this scenic path, which only takes 12 minutes longer than the main thoroughfare but offers breathtaking views and a wealth of experiences.
The Golden Detour is a little-known route that stretches across a 20-kilometer peninsula, connecting Oslo in the south to Kirkenes in the northeast—covering a total distance of about 3,000 kilometers. It is ideally situated along the main road, making it accessible for travelers who are looking for a more relaxed journey.
Olsen, who moved to Inderøy after meeting her husband Arve at agricultural college, now runs a farm shop that sells local food and handicrafts. Alongside the shop, she has also built a bakery and a cozy café where locals often gather for coffee and conversation after their shopping.
The countryside around Inderøy is serene, with fields of wheat alternating with patches of forest and pastures. Winding country roads lead to inland lakes such as Granavatnet, where dark spruce trees reflect in the crystal-clear water. These natural beauty spots make the Golden Detour a must-visit for those seeking a peaceful escape.
The Birth of the Golden Detour
The idea for the Golden Detour was first conceived in 1997 by the Town Hall of Straumen, the capital of the peninsular region. Authorities wanted to encourage visitors to take a different route when traveling to the North Cape, the northernmost point in the world. The catchy name "Golden Road" (Gyldne Omvei in Norwegian) was chosen to attract attention, and it quickly became synonymous with the golden grain fields that glow during late summer.
Today, the route along Country Road 761 from the E6 to Inderøy is known as the Golden Detour. Along the way, travelers can find a variety of attractions, including cheese dairies, a sewing factory that produces traditional North Trøndelager costumes, the 12th-century Sakshaug Church, and an ice cream factory. Olsen’s farm shop is also part of this scenic trail, offering her specialty caraway bread and locally distilled Aquavit.
Exploring the Golden Detour
One of the highlights of the Golden Detour is the Gangstad Cheese Dairy, founded by Astrid Aase. It was the first cheese dairy set up on a farm in Norway and has since inspired over 150 others. The dairy offers a range of cheeses, including blue and white varieties, as well as ones infused with garlic, cumin, and herbs from Inderøy’s gardens. They also produce 10 flavors of ice cream, including moose ice cream with spruce needle tips. Gangstad ice cream is available in delicatessens throughout Norway and even served on the Hurtigruten postal boats that travel the entire coast.
Another notable stop is the Inderøy Gårdsbryggeri, run by brothers Per and Steinar Morten. While Per manages the dairy cows, Steinar chose to brew beer in the 1990s. Their brewery, established in 2007, now produces 28 different beers, ranging from light lagers to strong stouts. Some of their stronger brews are only available in state-owned Vinmonopolet shops due to alcohol content regulations.
The Water of Life
Aquavit, or the “water of life,” is another highlight of the Golden Detour. Svein Berfjord and his son Vebjørn distill this strong spirit on their Berg Gård farm. They began experimenting with caraway seeds, eventually creating Aquavit No. 1, which has 42% alcohol. The drink is aged in sherry casks and spiced with aniseed and caraway. Today, Inderøy Brenneri produces 30,000 bottles annually, with 22 different varieties available. Despite its popularity, Aquavit cannot be sold in the farm shop due to Norway’s strict alcohol laws. However, Aquavit-flavored jam is available, and weekly tastings are held in the distillery’s barrel warehouse.
A Dollhouse with a Dream View
Per Magnus and his wife Lisa run Gårdshotell Husfrua, a wooden house that resembles a doll's house and dates back to 1866. The property features original furniture and furnishings, making it a unique place to stay. Magnus notes that while a larger hotel, Øyna Kulturlandskapshotell, was built nearby, it is not seen as a rival but rather a complement to their offerings.
Kristine Daling Sakshaug and her husband Frode have invested millions in the hotel, which boasts 16 double rooms and stunning views of the Trondheim Fjord. Guests can enjoy the peace and quiet of this off-the-beaten-path location, making it an ideal spot for those exploring the Golden Detour.
The Golden Detour offers more than just a scenic drive—it provides a glimpse into the heart of Norway’s rural charm, with its mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. For those willing to take the 12-minute detour, the rewards are well worth it.
