Escape into Trøndelag’s charming countryside with Grønset Skysstasjon

By Celina Tran

Are you searching for a bit of peace and quiet? A place to let your hair down and exhale after the rush of the hectic winter months and stressful start to the year? Look no further than Trøndelag, Norway, where history, nature and hospitality converge to create the rural getaway that is Grønset Skysstasjon.

Imagine arriving at a place where the fjords glisten in the evening sun, the air is crisp with the fresh pines, and ancient timber buildings whisper stories of bygone eras. At Grønset Skysstasjon, every moment feels like stepping into a timeless Norwegian fairytale.

Escape into Trøndelag’s charming countryside with Grønset Skysstasjon

Photo: Grønset Skysstasjon

An enchanting travel destination that seamlessly blends history, nature and hospitality, Grønset Skysstasjon is a centuries-old farmstead turned farm hotel. “Grønset Gard has served as a home to many people ever since the Iron Age,” says Helga ‘Fjøsmadamen’ Hjorthol Grønset, the seventh-generation owner of Grønset Gård. “From its days as a Viking settlement, to being church-owned, and later a captain’s estate, the farm has seen many chapters. My family has carried its torch since the late 1700s, and today, we welcome guests into this rich history.”

Along with her husband Mark Richard Adams (or ‘The Englishman’) and a hardworking team, Grønset Skysstasjon offers guests the opportunity to step away from the city bustle and just relax.

Photo: Grønset Skysstasjon

Rustic charm and modern comforts

The transformation of Grønset began when Helga took over the family farm in 2010, starting with the restoration of the old barn, Gammelfjøset, which now houses a cosy local food restaurant, a wedding venue, and six uniquely designed guest rooms.

“Since then, we’ve continued to expand our offerings, including a traditional badestamp (wood-fired hot tub), a summer café in a former manure cellar, and the preservation of Grønsetsetra, the historic mountain pasture that now hosts off-grid experiences. The bed and breakfast opened in 2016,” she says.

The magic of the old farm lies in its ability to merge the old with the new. Guests stay in rooms that retain the warmth of historic timber while enjoying modern amenities. Every detail reflects the family’s dedication to quality and authenticity, in the carefully selected furniture and the meals served at the restaurant.

Photo: Grønset Skysstasjon

Food and fun in natural surroundings

At Grønset Skysstasjon, no two visits are the same. Offering a range of cultural and nature experiences tied to the history and surroundings, there is an experience for everyone. While you will be rurally situated, don’t fret – the culinary possibilities are wonderful and tailored to different guests.

“At the farm restaurant, we love to experiment with flavours. From June through July and the beginning of August, Grønset’s café serves a menu celebrating the best of Trøndelag, which was the European Region of Gastronomy in 2022, including seasonal dishes made with foraged herbs and locally sourced produce,” says Helga.

Photo: Grønset Skysstasjon

The opportunities to combine food and activities are endless. After a scenic hike along the traditional mountain path, visitors can savour dinner at the mountain farm, soak in a wood-fired hot tub under the stars, and stay in cosy, heated glamping tents for a magical off-grid experience.

“In the summer café located in the former manure cellar, guests can enjoy a meal, take an evening stroll along the gravel paths in the village before bedtime, wake up to birdsong and a peaceful, hearty breakfast in the old barn, pack a lunch, and go for a walk along on the scenic mountain path to Grønsetsetra or even further,” says Helga. “Why not have dinner at the mountain pasture, followed by a soak in the wood-fired mountain hot tub, and then drift off to sleep in one of our heated glamping tents on the mountain meadow?”

In addition to all this, Grønset Skysstasjon also hosts concerts, pub nights, art exhibitions, weddings, and much more. “I believe it’s the overall experience that guests who stay here for a longer period, at least more than one night, truly enjoy,” adds Helga. “From the moment they are shown into the oldest part of the main house, settling into their uniquely decorated rooms, enjoying the sunset over the fjord and mountains with a refreshing aperitif. If they’re lucky, organist Alex might be at the piano playing beautiful Grieg or jazz tunes while ‘Fjøsmadamen’ takes a moment to sing a little song.”

For couples seeking a romantic getaway, businesses planning team-building retreats, or families yearning for a peaceful escape, Grønset Skysstasjon offers a rare blend of history, nature, and hospitality.