Viggja: Fjord Setting and Cultural History

Viggja lies on the Trondheimsfjord between Gaulosen and the Orkdalsfjord. This geographical and strategic location was important to the settlement’s position in the Middle Ages. Several tangible traces give Viggja a strong historical focus: a protected church site, a memorial stone and the Viggjaøra cultural heritage ensemble. This makes the place particularly well suited to exploring its fjord setting and local history.

Church Site, Memorial Stone and Cultural Heritage

The old church site in Viggja is designated as an automatically protected cultural heritage site. The so-called Y-kirka, built in 1667, stood on the site of Viggja’s last church; the site was probably settled as early as the 12th century. A memorial stone in Viggja commemorates the Battle of Vigg in 1095. Different historical periods thus come together: the remembrance of a single event and the church’s history, including its construction date and the earlier settlement, which is only presumed.

Viggjaøra is a cultural heritage ensemble. Some of its buildings are themselves cultural heritage sites; the cohesive built environment is also particularly worthy of protection. The focus is therefore not only on individual buildings, but also on how the development fits together. For travellers interested in culture, the ensemble offers a distinct way to explore local history: the relationships between the buildings matter too.

Routes and Activities with a Historical Connection

The 2025 Setervegløpet ran from Seljan in Viggja to Lyngstua in Børsa, following old routes between the summer-farm sites. In this edition, participants could either run in the competition class or cover the route at their own pace. The two options differed in running pace and mode of participation; they were part of the 2025 edition.

In the 2022 edition, the surfaces included gravel roads, ski trails and routes of varying standards. The condition of the routes may change with maintenance. For events, the ski cabin in Seljan can be rented for both small and larger occasions. If you plan to use this option, confirm the arrangements directly before travelling.

Nature and the Seasons in the Wider Destination of Skaun

In Skaun, the wider destination, the Grønneset outdoor recreation area is located by Lake Ånøya. The landscape includes forest and meadows, and activities include swimming, walking, fishing, ball games, playing and barbecuing. The options range from quiet outdoor pursuits to exercise and play. Buvikfjæra, also in Skaun, is a relatively undisturbed delta and foreshore area with a high density of birds. It is important for overwintering birds and serves as a stopover during spring and autumn migration. Together, the recreation area with its range of activities and the seasonally significant bird landscape appeal to different nature interests.

Ølshøgda is also in the wider destination of Skaun. At 537 metres above sea level, it is the highest point in the municipality. The area is considered snow-reliable and may be among the first places in Trøndelag to offer prepared ski trails at the start of the winter season. This creates a clear seasonal distinction: Buvikfjæra is important for overwintering and spring and autumn migration, while Ølshøgda may offer an early-winter experience.

Choose the Right Focus for Your Stay

When choosing a holiday apartment, you can start by considering the focus of your trip. Viggja combines its location on the Trondheimsfjord with specific aspects of local history. The nature and winter activities described, on the other hand, are located in the wider destination of Skaun. Would you like to focus mainly on cultural history, or do the regional leisure and nature options better suit your plans? This decision can help narrow down the location you want before you compare specific holiday apartments.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Buvika, Børsa, Skaun.

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