Quite a few Norwegians have learned to pronounce 'Verdal' like a real local thanks to a TV commercial for Lotto. It may seem that a disproportionate number of millionaires come from this town in Trøndelag, so it is for good reason that Verdal has been nicknamed 'Lotto town'.
But the municipality of Verdal has much more to offer than just a destination for the hopeful with Lotto tickets. It was in this municipality of Trøndelag along the border with Sweden that one of the most important events in Norwegian history took place, namely the Battle of Stiklestad in 1030.
Here we provide useful information for visitors to Verdal:
Things to do
Visit Stiklestad – the cradle of the nation
The Battle of Stiklestad in 1030, when Olav Haraldsson fell, marked an important turning point in Norwegian history. Today you can visit Stiklestad National Cultural Centre and learn more about Olav the Holy and the transition to the Norwegian Kingdom. In the summer, the “Game of Heilag Olav” is played, and all year round you can experience mediaeval environments and Stiklestad church from the 1100s.
Golf and pilgrimage in historic surroundings
Stiklestad Golf Club offers an 18-hole course with a view of Trondheimsfjorden. You can also follow St. Olavsleden between Stiklestad and Trondheim, a pilgrimage hike through beautiful nature and historic landscapes. You will also find Karl Johans vej and De Verdalske Fortresses in the area.
Vømmøl Festival – distinctively Trøndersk
The Vømmøl Festival celebrates Trønder culture inspired by Hans Rotmo’s universe. The festival offers trains through the city centre and music with a clear local root.
Shopping in the centre of Verdal
At AMFI Verdal you will find around 30 shops with a varied selection. It’s also worth exploring the city centre streets and local niche shops.
Verdal cinema and cultural centre
Verdal Cinema shows the latest films in modern halls in the centre of the city. The Tour Theatre in Trøndelag is also based in Verdal and sets up performances throughout the year.
Restaurants
Located in the heart of the Verdal city centre is Innherredsbakeriet, a charming café with freshly baked pastries and a nice outdoor seating area. The bakery dates back to early 1900s and is a great choice for lunch.
Within walking distance of Verdal train station, you'll find Fæby Farm, where you can enjoy both good food and drinks from the farm’s own brewery. The kitchen primarily uses ingredients from both the farm and neighbouring farms to prepare 'shamefully good' food. The farm is mentioned in writings as far back as the 1280s, but it is not inconceivable that the farm dates as far back as the Battle of Stiklestad.
You can also curb your appetite with international cuisine, whether Italian at Siciliana Restaurant and Pizzeria or Spanish at the Tapas restaurant and wine bar.
Overnight stay
Thon Hotel Verdal is a comfortable hotel that is centrally located in Verdal. The hotel is connected to the AMFI Verdal shopping centre and the Verdal train station is close by – only a two-minute walk away. A delicious breakfast buffet is served daily.
Did you know...?
- According to Norsk Tipping, there are 31 lottery winners from Verdal. No fewer than 18 residents have won at a million in Lotto, six in Vikinglotto, two in Extra, two in Lucky and one in Tipping. Not bad for a municipality with a population of just under 15,000 inhabitants!
- The first part of the town name, 'Ver', originates from the old name of the Verdal river and means 'quiet' or 'calm'.
- The word 'vømmøl' originates from the local pronunciation of wadmal, a coarse wool fabric that was widely used for clothing by Norwegian farmers in the past. Hans Rotmo’s songs performed with the Vømmøl band describe both people and animals in Vømmøldalen, a fictitious place many believe is located in Trøndelag.
