Stokkøya Sea Center: Distinctive architecture at the Norwegian fjords

Norway is a country famous for its natural attractions such as the midnight sun, the Norwegian fjords and the majestic mountains. Undoubtedly, the countryside is breathtaking and Stokkøya Sjøsenter is one of the best places to visit if you seek natural beauty and the ideal spot for Instagram-worthy photos.

It's been some years ago when Torild Langklopp, the owner and manager, came up with the idea of moving to a small remote island of Norway and build small summer houses for visitors. But that was back then...her dream got transformed into Stokkøya Sjøsenter, a perfect place for everyone who seeks relaxation with gorgeous surroundings at the Norwegian fjords.

View of the Stokkoya Sea Center in Afjord

Location and Activities

Stokkøya is an island in the municipality of Åfjord in Sør-Trøndelag county of Norway. It covers 15 square km and the community has about 3,200 inhabitants, mainly firshermen and farmers.

Stokkøya Sjøsenter (Sea Center) offers different options of accommodation for every taste. You can choose among: SUB units, each one with its own distinct style offering bathroom and private covered porch; self-contained cottages in case you want to share them with friends or family; tents during summer if living on the beach is your thing. All lodging options have been created with simplicity and minimalism in mind and always in harmony with the landscape of the island. Stokkøya Sjøsenter has a total capacity of 90 beds available and conference facilities for groups of up to 50 people.

During your visit, you may enroll yourself to various courses such as a beer course with a local microbrewer, a shellfish course during your lunch or a team building activity. Apart from those, the spot where the Sea Center is located is perfect for kayaking, cycling, diving, fishing and sailing.

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The Beach Bar

At the Beach Bar, the skilled and experienced staff creates a new menu every day based on the daily catch from the sea, meat from their own farm and seasonal products. The drinks menu is put together by professionals to complement your food in the best possible way.

The Interview

We asked Torild to tell us a few words about Stokkøya Sjøsenter:

- What's the story behind Stokkøya Sjøsenter?

It started out as an idea to make a living out of a small sheep farm, inherited by Roar Svenning, my husband and co-founder. I moved here with him in 2002. Soon, my sister Ingrid Langklopp joined the project and us three have been in charge of developing the resort ever since.

-The design of the hotel is really unique. Can you describe us the architectural influences for a concept like this?

It is the outcome of the fruitful collaboration of the architects of www.pir2.no with the master students in Art from the University of Gothenburg, combined with ideas of our own. We have mixed a few iconic original design objects, used a lot of leftovers from the old building and things we collected and restored from our own farm. Also, we took advantage of many findings from a ship breaking yard nearby and other items we either found or received from family and friends. All the rooms have their own identity and every item has its own story. The inspiration of the Coastal Houses comes from my husband, Roar, who is fascinated by Richard Neutra and his buildings in California in the 1920s.

Distinctive architecture with concrete and glass

-What makes Stokkøya Sjøsenter so special to the visitors?

We think that the interesting design and the exciting architecture stand out in the most astonishing way, in a place that many would describe as “the middle of nowhere”. Also, the contrasts between the wild and beautiful nature and the buildings make it noticeable in a much “brighter” way than they would normally do in an urban environment. Our focus on high quality experiences such as cultural events, and of course the food with ingredients brought directly from the local farms are two of our assets. We have also managed to achieve a dedicated staff that is friendly, professional and customer-oriented.

The beach bar offers fantastic views out on the North Sea

-When is the best period to visit Stokkøya Sjøsenter? Can someone combine it with the Northern lights or the fjords?

Yes, definitely! It is most crowded during the summer season but during winter, with the stars, the northern lights, the storms and the total darkness, Stokkøya is absolutely worth a visit! In winter, we also have more concerts and a “slower pace” that makes the experience more exotic and unique.

Learn how to properly photograph the northern lights here!

-Are there any highlights or tips you can give us about the island?

The beach is great for kite surfing, kayaking and beach volleyball. Moreover, it is possible to rent old fishing vessels and catch fish with the help of a captain who knows the area and can give you tips for the best spots. You can also have really nice walks in small paths up on the hills with fantastic views out on the North Sea. There are big and small caves around the area and a beautiful countryside with sheep wandering around the whole year. Visitors will also have the opportunity to watch the Sea Eagle flying in the sky.

Gorgeous landscape at the Norwegian fjords

-What is the best way to visit the island?

Visitors may fly to Vaernes Airport in Trondheim and then either take the bus from Trondheim Central Station all the way to Stokkøya, or rent a car at the airport and come straight to the hotel.

Find more information about Stokkøya Sjøsenter on its official website and keep up with its new posts on its Facebook page and Instagram account.