Harbak Gård: Unique experiences in rural Norway

With a stunning location by the sea, the traditional Norwegian farmstead Harbak Gård is a true hidden gem. Tucked away in the beautiful landscape of Åfjord on the coast of Trøndelag, this is a destination for anyone wanting to discover the diverse nature, interesting cultural experiences, and delicious local food.

The idyllic small farm Harbak Gård is located just a stone’s throw from the well-known island Stokkøya. Hidden away behind a mountain, the farm is a serene and scenic spot – the ideal place for exploring the rich tapestry of this fascinating part of Norway.

Åfjord is beautiful and the farm’s varied experiences has made it a popular destination for tourists from abroad. “This is a tiny place – the local community consists of about 34 people,” says farm owner Elvar Harbak. “It’s peaceful but has a wonderful location so close to the rough sea and rugged nature that Norway is known for.”

The local area offers plenty of exciting activities related to nature, culture, and history. Whether you want to climb one of the area’s majestic mountains, explore a fascinating cave, visit an interesting museum, or go diving, there is no shortage of options.

Harbak is one of Norway’s best bouldering destinations and people travel from all over the world to climb and boulder in the area’s mountains, rocks, and caves. With Harbak Gård’s location being so close to the sea, this is also the perfect place for fishing enthusiasts. The farm has 14 boats available for guests and visitors to take out sea fishing. “Everybody can find something they enjoy here – there are wonderful opportunities for activities and experiences at sea as well as on land,” Harbak says. “There’s certainly something to suit everyone.”

Experience the local colour

As a traditional farm, Harbak Gård keeps cows and sheep all year round and pigs during the summer. Sustainability is a key tenet of the farm’s operations. “Doing our part to preserve nature is important to us,” says Harbak. “We’re proud to have achieved a Debio certification for organic production.”

The farm sells the meat to a range of local shops and restaurants, and attends Christmas markets and food festivals with its products. Guests at Harbak Gård can visit the farm shop where meat, leather, and yarn produced on the farm, as well as exciting local products like herbs, jams, and handmade lotions, can be bought. The products are also available at the Trondheim-based shop Trøndelag Sjømat, which focuses mainly on fish and seafood.

Harbak Gård is an excellent destination for those looking to celebrate a special occasion. The farm’s spacious old barn, Låven, is a large event space with a fantastic atmosphere. “It’s a great space for a range of different events and celebrations. We’ve hosted weddings and birthdays as well as concerts and art exhibitions,” Harbak says.

In fact, the farm has played host to an art exhibition every summer for the past five years. There is also a farm café during school holidays, which is popular among the locals as well as visitors. “We enjoy putting on events and open days – it’s good to have things happening in the local community,” says Harbak. “Children in particular love our open days, they can spend time with our farm animals and enjoy the beautiful scenery. We want this to be a place where kids can play and adults can find peace and serenity.”

Comfortable stays in scenic surroundings

With nine separate apartments and another to be completed this spring, there are plenty of options for overnight guests at Harbak Gård. The accommodations are based in old farm buildings that have been renovated to a high standard, with a fully equipped kitchen and separate bathroom in each.

With houses and apartments of varying sizes, both small and large groups can be accommodated. There are several comfortable sea-view apartments with four to six beds, featuring all necessary amenities. For a different experience at Harbak Gård, guests can stay at the cosy Stabburet (the farm’s old storehouse), which sleeps two, or spend the night in Pelsingshuset (the old mink shed), an intimate six-bed house with a turf roof, tucked away in a quiet area of the farmstead. Garasjen (the garage) is a large, airy four-bedroom house offering panoramic views of the sea and beds for up to 8 people.

“We’re happy to get great feedback from our guests, and we especially appreciate the many visitors who return again and again,” Harbak says. “It shows us that we’re doing something right!”

Web: harbak.info
Facebook: Harbak Gård
Instagram: @harbakgard