Ytterøy: Island Nature and Cultural History

Ytterøy combines the landscapes of an island in the inner Trondheim Fjord with hiking destinations, a long cycling route and traces of a rich cultural history. Ytterøya is about 13.5 kilometres long and 4.3 kilometres wide at its broadest point. From Levanger town centre, you can reach the island by ferry in about 30 minutes. Factor the crossing into your travel plans and check the latest departure times before your trip.

Getting around on foot, by bike and in winter

Bølåskammen is Ytterøya’s second-highest peak. The ascent involves 210 metres of elevation gain and is considered a moderate peak on Ti På Topp Levanger. For a different way to explore the island, try the main route of Sykkelrunden: it is about 18 kilometres long and follows quiet, paved roads. This gives you the choice between a designated hiking destination and a longer cycling route.

In winter, there is a floodlit cross-country ski trail in Dragåsen; check the latest trail conditions before setting out. Wildlife also contributes to the island’s natural character: Ytterøya is home to one of Norway’s densest roe deer populations, although sightings cannot be planned in advance. The island is also home to an ash tree considered the largest and oldest in Northern Europe.

Church, standing stone and island history

Ytterøy Church was built in 1889, but its location in Eid is older. Evidence suggests that a church has stood there since the Christianisation of Norway. Near the church is the Bell Stone, also called Klokkesteinen: an ancient standing stone on a burial mound from the Late Iron Age, with inscriptions in the younger runic alphabet.

The historic site of Berghaugen tells the story of sulphur and copper mining, which dates back to 1630. Ytterøy Bygdetun farmstead offers a different glimpse into the past. It has been preserved in approximately the condition it was in around 1950 and includes historic farm buildings, as well as old farming equipment, tools, furniture and household objects. Together, these places reveal different aspects of the island’s history, from everyday farm life to traces of mining.

The historic Ytterøy Prestebolig is another notable cultural site. The building was constructed by the state in 1913 and offers an escape room for groups of friends, families and other groups. The activity must be booked in advance; check current availability before making firm plans.

Garden visits and local offerings

The Kjerkgrindshaugen visitor garden offers guided tours of its grounds; advance arrangements may be necessary. Kjerkgrindshaugen welcomes groups for Garden Tea with refreshments by prior booking. Both experiences are therefore best suited as planned activities rather than spontaneous stops.

Dining options include 7610 Rampa, which serves local and regional dishes, cold buffets, pizza and cakes. The venue welcomes tourists and groups, and has experience organising tailor-made visits in collaboration with other providers on Ytterøy. Check current opening hours and offerings before visiting, and arrange booking details or planned collaborations in advance.

During the summer season, Svin på skogen keeps 80–90 pigs outdoors and produces and sells farm products from its own sausage-making business. If you would like to buy farm products, check directly with the farm about the options. The seasonal timing is important: this offering is available during the summer season, not year-round.

Choose the right holiday apartment for your island itinerary

When looking for a holiday apartment on Ytterøy, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your stay: hiking and cycling, cultural history or a seasonal activity such as cross-country skiing. Guided tours, Garden Tea and the escape room require advance planning; for seasonal offerings, take the relevant conditions into account. Also plan for the approximately half-hour ferry journey from Levanger town centre, and check departure times and any offerings that require confirmation before making firm plans for each day.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Skogn, Åsen, Ekne, Levanger, Åsenfjord.

Back to the main travel overview: Levanger.