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Places in Fosen – villages, nature and culture

Selected areas with history, hiking opportunities and coastal traditions

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Fosen map overview

Small villages with deep roots

Along the Trondheimfjord lie communities shaped by sea, soil and trade. They do not compete for attention – they exist on their own terms. Coastal culture here is practical and lived. Wooden piers, fishing boats, open farmland and trails that follow the natural lines of the terrain. The views unfold quietly. So does the atmosphere.

Fosen is not built around spectacle. It is built around continuity. Fjord and hillside in one frame, working harbours, and hiking routes that begin just outside the door. You can walk, paddle, fish – or simply stay still. Nothing is staged. Everything is accessible.

Regional information about activities and events can be found at Visit Fosen.

Fevåg

Sits by Stjørnfjorden – a side arm of the Trondheimfjord. Authentic coastal culture rooted in brickworks industry, war memories and generations of seafarers. History that isn't forgotten, and nature that offers space for both stillness and adventure.

History that still lives

  • Fevåg Brickworks: For over 100 years, the works produced bricks that shaped both landscape and community – until the 1960s.
  • War memories: German bunkers and positions from World War II still lie in the terrain – silent witnesses to a time that won't be forgotten.
  • Baksteinneset cultural trail: Easy 5.1 km loop (about 1 hour). Iron Age burial mounds, troll sculptures, Stone Age finds and the concrete barge "Crete Joist" that ran aground in 1943.
  • Refsnes cultural trail: Traces of settlement and history combined with beautiful fjord views.

Trails and nature

  • Brettingsfjellet: Moderately challenging (2.6 km, about 1 hour round trip). Steep via "Rolfstien" with some support (ropes/fences). Views over the Trondheimfjord and shipping lane. Parking at the clubhouse in Fevågskardet.
  • Baksteinneset cultural trail: Easy loop (5.1 km) — also works well as a family hike.

Coastal life and war history

  • The shipping lane: Fevåg sits close to the traffic in the lane – a fine spot to follow boat life and see the fjord in motion, especially from the heights.
  • Serbertrappa: Steps and stonework from the war years, linked to forced labour in the area – a quiet, concrete trace in the terrain.
  • Coves and kayaking: Sheltered sections along Stjørnfjorden offer good conditions for short trips by kayak or small boat.

Food and accommodation

Fevåg is 1.5–2 hours from Trondheim , via scenic roads or the Flakk–Rørvik ferry .  •  Find your way to Fevåg: Google Maps
Fevåg by Stjørnfjorden
Coastal landscape in Fevåg

Hasselvika

Coastal village with views towards Agdenes and Ørlandet. Sea air, fortress history and fjord landscape in close range – with short distances and a clear coastal character.

History and fortress culture

  • Hysnes Fort: Cliff fortress from 1897, placed to defend the entrance to the Trondheimfjord. Today a museum and popular stop.
  • Stone-paved military road (1896): Old construction road up towards the positions at Nebbesheia – a clear, physical trace of coastal defence history.
  • Hasselvika Guesthouse: Accommodation by the sea, well suited for groups and gatherings.

Outdoor life and nature

  • Nebbesheia: Hike up to former military positions. Start near the express boat harbour. Route passes the cannon position and continues to the lookout point.
  • Hysnes Health Fort: Green area suitable for calm walks.

Views and coastline

  • The entrance to the Trondheimfjord: Hasselvika sits open toward the fjord with views toward Agdenes and Ørlandet – sea traffic and coastal landscape up close.
  • Sheltered coves: The coastline around the village is well suited for short kayak or small boat trips when conditions are calm.

Food and accommodation

Hasselvika is about 1.5 hours from Trondheim , via the Flakk–Rørvik ferry and scenic roads through Fosen. Express boat also gives easy access to Trondheim and Brekstad (Ørland) .  •  Find your way to Hasselvika: Google Maps
Hasselvika by the Trondheimfjord
Coastal and fjord landscape in Hasselvika

Hindrem

Historic fjord village by the Trondheimfjord with cultural heritage, outdoor experiences and short distances between nature, culture and fjord life.

Culture and history

  • Hindrem Stave Church: Hand-built replica of the Haltdalen stave church from the 1100s.
  • The burial mounds at Amborneset: Cultural heritage site with traces from the Bronze Age and Viking era.
  • Historic farms: Farmsteads reflecting long-standing agricultural and fishing traditions in the area.
  • Mevassetra: Local food served in a mountain pasture setting, with farm animals grazing and quiet pasture culture in practice. Can also be combined with Munkstigen via ferrata .

Outdoor life and nature

Fishing and fjord life

  • Trondheimfjord: Fishing for cod, saithe, ling and sea trout from shore or boat.
  • Sea fishing from Hindrum Fjordsenter: Local tips, seasons and practical information for fjord fishing.
  • Kayak and boat: Calm fjord conditions suitable for kayaking and small boats.

Accommodation and boat rental

Experiences and visits

Food and accommodation

Hindrem is about one hour from Trondheim , reached via the Flakk–Rørvik ferry and roads through Fosen.  •  Find your way to Hindrem: Google Maps
Hindrem by the Trondheimfjord
Fjord and cultural landscape in Hindrem

Leksvik

A town by the Trondheimfjord with vibrant local culture, beautiful nature and strong roots in both agriculture and industry. Here fjord landscapes, mountain pasture life and craft traditions meet.

Culture and history

  • Leksvik Church (1667): Wooden church with a long history and fine details.
  • Grande Country Store: Country store museum with an authentic 1950s atmosphere.
  • Ner-Killingberg: National cultural monument with hand-carved furniture and decorated walls.
  • Leksvik Mountain Farm Association: A living farm environment – well suited for families and those interested in local traditions.
  • From “the goat village” to industry: Until the 1950s, goats were common here. From around the 1960s, industrial development accelerated, and parts of the local economy later moved into more technology-oriented activity.
  • The Eide ski-pole story: In the 1960s–70s, ski poles were produced in Leksvik on a large scale. The factory was later acquired and closed – a clear example of a local industry journey.

Hiking and nature

  • Våttån: Easy hike (1 km, about 30 min). Viewpoint over Leksvik and Blankbygda. Wheelchair and stroller accessible.
  • Spelholtheia loop: Moderate (5.1 km, about 2 hours). Start at Grinda on Tømmerbakken.
  • Årliklumpen East: Challenging (14.2 km, about 4 hours). From Myrmo ski stadium northward.

Guest marina and small-boat harbour

  • Guest berth near the centre: Leksvik offers guest spaces and practical access close to local services – a useful stop for boat travellers in the Trondheimfjord.
  • Facilities: Seasonal access to water/power, toilets/showers and basic service by the marina.

Food and accommodation

Leksvik is about 1.5–2 hours from Trondheim , either by car or via the Flakk–Rørvik ferry .  •  Find your way to Leksvik: Google Maps
Leksvik by the Trondheimfjord
Leksvik church and village landscape

Rissa

A historic town beautifully located by the Trondheimfjord. From the protected Reins Monastery to the Rissa landslide – a place where history, nature and fjord life meet.

Culture and history

  • Reins Monastery: One of Norway’s oldest monastery sites, established in the 13th century. A protected cultural monument with roots in the Viking Age and the Middle Ages.
  • The Rissa landslide: One of the largest quick-clay landslides in Norwegian history – a clear reminder of the forces of nature in the area.
  • Rein Church: A stave-church-inspired wooden church donated by the author Johan Bojer.
  • Strømmenbrygga: A charming pier and cultural venue by the fjord – nice for short walks and evening sun.
  • Friends of the Coastal Pilgrimage Route: Rissa is an important part of the historic coastal pilgrimage route.
  • Nigårdstunet: Farm life, local food and nature-based calm – well suited for families.

Hiking and nature

  • Blåheia: Moderate (8.4 km, about 4 hours). Trail from Dørndal up to the ridge. Shelter at the top with views over Rissa and the Trondheimfjord.
  • Høgåsen: Easy but steep (1.2 km, about 20 min). Rope assistance on the trail. Parking by Høgåsen kindergarten in Årnset.
  • Lefættjønna: Easy hike (3.4 km, about 1.5 hours). Marked trail all the way. Nice shelter by a small lake.
  • Lit trails in Skaugdalen: Great tracks for cross-country skiing in winter and forest walks in summer.
  • Rein: A rich forest area with trails, wildlife and quiet – well suited for calm walks.

Municipal centre and industry

  • Administrative centre: Rissa is the administrative centre of Indre Fosen municipality, with services and local commerce gathered around the town.
  • Fosen Yard (Kvithyll): Shipyard in Rissa/Indre Fosen focusing on conversion and maintenance of larger vessels – a clear industrial presence in the area.
  • Servi AS: Industrial competence in hydraulics, including production of cylinders and components for demanding use.

Food and accommodation

Rissa is about 1.5 hours from Trondheim , by car or via the Flakk–Rørvik ferry .  •  Find your way to Rissa: Google Maps
Rissa by the Trondheimfjord
Reins Monastery in Rissa

Råkvåg

Coastal village by Stjørnfjorden known for its iconic waterfront row, herring history and an active summer atmosphere. Close to the fjord, clear cultural traces and easy walks nearby.

Culture and history

Hiking and nature

  • Grønskardklumpen: Easy hike (1.9 km, about 1 hour). Short but somewhat steep up to a viewpoint over Råkvåg and Stjørnfjorden. Parking by the kindergarten in Råkvåg.
  • Kayaking and boating: Stjørnfjorden suits calm paddling trips and small-boat outings in sheltered surroundings.

Fishing and fjord life

  • Stjørnfjorden: Fjord fishing from shore or boat, with good conditions in calm waters.
  • Waterfront atmosphere: Sjøgata and the wharves offer a clear encounter with coastal culture and fjord life.

Food and accommodation

Råkvåg is about 1.5 hours from Trondheim , via scenic roads along fjord and coast.  •  Find your way to Råkvåg: Google Maps
Råkvåg by Stjørnfjorden
Waterfront environment in Råkvåg

Selnes

A peaceful village with views over the Trondheimfjord and a living farming landscape. Close to both forest and sea – a good starting point for calm walks, fjord life and local cultural heritage.

Culture and history

  • Selnes Church: A small church reflecting local faith and community through generations.
  • Traditional farms: Farming and craft traditions that still shape the village.
  • Village gatherings and markets: Local meeting places with markets and music (seasonal).

Hiking and nature

  • Høgkammen (168 m): Easy hike (2.5 km, about 1 hour round trip) with views over Stjørnfjorden and the surrounding area. Parking at the Revsneshagen sign in Selnes.

Fishing and fjord life

  • Fjord fishing: Cod, saithe and mackerel in the fjord outside – well suited for recreational fishing.
  • Kayak and boat: Paddle or take a short boat trip along the shoreline and into small coves.

Food and accommodation

Selnes is approximately 1.5–2 hours from Trondheim , and is easily reached by car or ferry via Flakk–Rørvik .  •  Find your way to Fevåg / Selnes: Google Maps
Selnes by the Trondheimfjord
Fjord views and cultural landscape in Selnes

Stadsbygd

A coastal village along the Trondheimfjord with coastal culture, old history and short distances between museum visits, hiking targets and fjord life.

Hiking and nature

  • Bliksåskammen: Easy hike (1.5 km, about 1 hour). Marked parking in Finseråsveien.
  • Skyråsen: Easy hike (1.5 km, about 1 hour) to Skyråskirka and a shelter. Parking at the end of Berga.
  • Stadsbygd Ski Center: Cross-country trails, sledding hills and summer paths throughout the year.
  • Desertørhytta and the burial cairns at Slakken: A hiking destination with strong history and clear cultural traces.
  • The fog bell at Rødberg: A historic coastal signal – and a good hiking target today.

Culture and history

Fishing and fjord life

  • Fjord fishing: Saithe, cod and mackerel from the fjord.
  • Boat and paddling: The fjord and small bays are well suited for short trips by small boat, kayak or canoe.

Food and accommodation

Stadsbygd is a short ferry ride from Trondheim via the Flakk–Rørvik ferry .  •  Find your way to Stadsbygd: Google Maps
Stadsbygd by the Trondheimfjord
Coastal and fjord landscape in Stadsbygd

Vanvikan

A coastal town with views directly toward Trondheim. An express boat connection and several good hiking options make Vanvikan a natural starting point for short and longer fjord days.

Culture and history

  • Boat building and industry (historic): Vanvikan has long industrial roots, with maritime craftsmanship and production environments that have shaped the area over time.
  • Technology today: Vanvikan has an active technology environment, with companies in electronics, control systems and maritime robotics.
  • Lyng Drilling (historic trace): Vanvikan also has roots in the development of drill-bit technology for oil and gas.
  • Fjord connection to Trondheim: An important hub with express boat service to Trondheim for commuters and visitors.

Hiking and nature

  • Aksnesklumpen via Munken: Challenging hike (9.6 km, about 4 hours). Steep start, gentler after the shelter. Views along the way and from the summit (546 m). Parking 3.5 km east of Vanvikan centre along road 755 (season approx. April–October).
  • Grønlitjønna: Easy hike (1.6 km, about 1 hour). Marked trail to the lake through partly marshy terrain. Parking approx. 200 m west of the outlet by Kvernsjøen on the road between Vanvikan and Markabygda.
  • Waterfront promenade: Calm walks along the water, or a short paddle along the fjord edge.

Fishing and fjord life

  • Fjord fishing: Good opportunities from shore and boat – saithe, cod and mackerel.
  • Fjord views toward Trondheim: Vanvikan lies open toward the fjord and gives a clear “fjord feeling” in a short time.

Experiences and visits

Food and accommodation

Vanvikan is about 25 minutes by express boat from Trondheim .  •  Express boat Vanvikan–Trondheim (timetable) .  •  Find your way to Vanvikan: Google Maps
Vanvikan by the Trondheimfjord
Views from Vanvikan toward the fjord and Trondheim

Vanvikan is a coastal town with views directly toward Trondheim. Strategic location, express boat connection and excellent hiking areas make it suited for weekday escapes and weekend adventures.

History and industry

• Boat building and industry: Strong roots in maritime industry – shipyards and technology companies shaping the local community for generations.

• Fjord connection to Trondheim: Important traffic hub with express boat to Trondheim – attractive for commuters and visitors.

Hiking and outdoor life

• Aksnesklumpen via Munken: Challenging hike (9.6 km, about 4 hours). Steep and demanding at start along tractor road, but gentler after passing the shelter. Great views over fjord along the way and from summit (546m elevation). Parking 3.5 km east of Vanvikan center along fv 755. Season April–October.

• Grønlitjønna: Easy hike (1.6 km, about 1 hour). Follow trail passing Kvernsjøelva, turn left after about 400m on abandoned road. Marked trail to lake through partly marshy terrain. At lake you can cross dam and continue about 500m to memorial of English aircraft that crashed summer 1940. Parking about 200m west of outlet at Kvernsjøen on road between Vanvikan and Markabygda.

• Waterfront promenade: Peaceful walks along the water, or kayak out and experience the coast from the fjord side.

Fishing and fjord life

• Fjord fishing: Good fishing from land and boat – saithe, cod and mackerel are common catches.

Art and experiences

• Arctic Bus: Tailored tours along Fosen with unique tour bus – groups, events and sightseeing with wheelchair-friendly comfort.

• Atelier Florida: Art and framing workshop with watercolors, paintings and woodwork – hobby supplies and artistic atmosphere.

Transport and accessibility

Vanvikan is 25 minutes by express boat from Trondheim. Good road connections to the rest of Fosen make it a natural gateway for further discoveries – Hindrem and the rest of the Pearls of Fosen.

• Find your way to Vanvikan: Google Maps

Regional information about activities and events can be found at Visit Fosen.
Back to Fosen – overview of places and experiences.