Hitra: A Gem of Norwegian Coastal Culture
If you are looking for a taste of Norway’s coastal culture, then a visit to Hitra will serve you up an experience you will never forget.
In fact, it is an area that puts an emphasis on ‘taste’. The local cuisine is clearly inspired by the beautiful wilderness that lays on its doorstep.
Hitra is an area that everybody should visit at some point in their lives. The wild waters, picturesque islands, and illustrious history help make it an area that is undoubtedly a gem of Norwegian coastal culture.
Where Is Hitra?
The municipality of Hitra is in Trøndelag county in Norway. It is bordered by Frøya in the north and the mainland municipalities of Hemne and Snillfjord to the south.
The municipality includes the island of Hitra, which is the seventh-largest island in Norway and the largest one outside of the Arctic circle.
Amongst its villages and towns are Fillan, Ansnes, and Hestvika.
Are searching for beauty? You will be sure to find it amongst the many islands, islet, and skerries that are scattered throughout this municipality.
As of last year, it grew that little bit larger and now parts of Snillfjord get to say they are also part of Hitra.
Hitra’s Culinary Delights
There is a huge emphasis on produce in this area. In fact, Hitra is a food enthusiast’s dream.
This is especially true if you love seafood, as fishing is a massive part of the cultural identity here. All you have to do is look at how many of the settlements came about as a result of this industry.
For instance, the likes of Ansnes was a seaport back in 1700. Here, dried and salted fish were sold to hungry travelers. Even today, this village is largely known for its association with fishing.
It is not alone in that fact either. There are many fishing villages along the coast demonstrating a unique and lasting culture. A culture that gives us a view into the past, while at the same time, revealing the lasting importance of this industry for the area’s future.
If you ask a local what is the best option on the menu in Hitra, it is highly likely that salmon or brown crab will be near the top of their list of suggestions. Do you want an even fresher culinary experience? Just ask a native where is the best place to harvest a scallop!
Everybody can agree that the seafood from this corner of Norway is wondrous and incredibly popular. Still, it is not the only beautiful produce to come from around there.
Many Norwegians also know Hitra for its abundance of red deer, which is reflected upon the municipality’s crest. Locals also take great pride in their cooking and deer dishes are a particular specialty. With beautiful cheeses, delicious deer, and gorgeous locally brewed beer, any visitor who experiences Hitra’s culinary delights will feel as though they have visited a cool, tranquil paradise.
History and Culture
History buffs should know that is also one of Norway’s oldest settlements, with traces of people in this area dating all the way back to the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and the Iron Age. Amazingly, the Hitra island has been continuously inhabited since then.
There are several museums on the island that detail both the modern and classical history of Hitra.
In terms of activities, fishing is obviously a huge pastime. Both locals and tourists enjoy the beautiful crisp waters rich in seafood on offer. Honestly, if you get a chance to rent a boat in the area and can do so safely, then it is an experience you are unlikely to regret.
In recent years, water sports and diving have also become more popular here. Also, we can’t forget about hunting. However, if you would prefer to just relax, there are also some of the most beautiful beaches scattered throughout the region. Don’t expect to get a suntan, though!
All in all, coastal culture is clearly alive in well in Hitra. Anyone who makes the decision to experience it there, will not be disappointed.
