THE COASTAL ROUTE`S SOUTHERN STARTING POINT- STEINKJER
Steinkjer, located 120 km north of Trondheim, serves as the southernmost point along Kystriksveien. It holds the distinction of being the county capital of Trøndelag. This city is situated on historically significant grounds, having served as a prominent power center during the Viking era.
The coastal route commences in Steinkjer, nestled on the inner part of the Trondheim fjord. A noteworthy attraction awaits atop Oftenåsen, where you can relish panoramic views of the city, fjord, and distant mountains while lounging in the world's largest garden chair. A short half-hour drive from the city center takes you to the Bølareinen petroglyph, a remarkable archaeological site dating back 6000 years.
Following the bombing raids during World War II, significant reconstruction took place in the city center, resulting in a functional architectural style prevalent in the 1950s and 1960s. Notably, the Steinkjer Church (1965) stands as a prominent landmark within the cityscape.
As the administrative hub of Trøndelag county and the southernmost point along Kystriksveien, Steinkjer is often referred to as the "town of villages." When approaching from the south, you'll be greeted by the characteristic agricultural landscape that defines the Innherred region. The municipality spans a considerable distance, extending 40 km from the city center to its outer boundaries.
Located just north of the center lies Egge, once a prominent seat of power during Norway's Viking era. Calf Arnasson, hailing from the esteemed Egge chief farm, led the peasant army in the historic Battle of Stiklestad against Olav Haraldsson in 1030.
Every two years, Egge hosts a Viking festival that serves as a captivating family event, attracting thousands of visitors. Steinkjer also hosts two annual music festivals. The Hilmar Festival, dedicated to folk music, takes place in November, while the Steinkjer Festival, a rock festival, electrifies the city in June.
As a bustling commercial hub, Steinkjer lures shoppers from the surrounding regions. It boasts a delightful downtown area with eateries, cafes, and shops, as well as a larger shopping mall housing over 100 stores.
Kystriksveien Info-Centre is conveniently situated along the E6, near the bus and railway stations, as well as the shopping center. Here you will find various brochures and maps of the Coastal Route (Kystriksveien). The tourist office for Innherred is located 200 meters further north along E6, ready to provide you with information on various experiences and activities in Steinkjer and the rest of the Innherred region.