Steinkjer – Giltelvstua

From fjordside cycling and quiet country roads to forested climbs and remote cabins, this stage takes you from coastal calm into the wild tranquility of Trøndelag’s backcountry.

Leaving Steinkjer, the route takes you past the town beach and along the waterfront on charming cycle paths. You’ll ride past Paradisbukta, a popular beach and recreation area, before following quiet country roads. There is some shared road riding, but traffic is light, especially along Bartnes where you can enjoy views across the fjord towards the village of Malm. In Beitstad you’ll find a grocery store – the last opportunity to shop for the day, so make sure to stock up here.

From here the real adventure and challenge begins: the gravel road tilts upwards, carrying you into deep forest. The climb, famous from the Strade Statskog Classic, rewards you with silence and solitude – just you, your bike, and the whisper of gravel beneath your tires. Nestled in the forest lies Giltelvstua, a simple, back-to-basics cabin where you bring your own food, fetch water from a stream and use outdoor toilet. Also bring your own linens. Mobile coverage is poor and next to nothing.

It’s also possible to continue another 6 km to Skatlandstrand cabin, beautifully located on a hilltop with stunning views. Like Giltelvstua, it offers simple accommodation – you need to bring all your own food and essentials. Remember to book your cabin in advance to receive access codes and information about the cabins, at inatur.no.