Steinvikholmen – Golden Light and Quiet History by the Fjord

Tucked away on the coast of Skatval in Stjørdal lies Steinvikholmen, a historic gem set against the shimmering waters of the Trondheimsfjord. Known mostly for its 16th-century fortress ruins and connection to Norwegian history, it’s also an incredibly photogenic spot — especially during golden hour and sunset.

If you’re chasing light, texture, and tranquility, this place delivers it all.

A Castle of Stories

Steinvikholmen Castle was built in the 1530s by Archbishop Olav Engelbrektsson, just before the Reformation swept through Norway. Though now a ruin, the structure still holds an undeniable presence — its stone walls catching the low evening light in ways that make history feel tangible.

It’s easy to imagine ships sailing in the bay centuries ago, while today, the tide gently laps the rocks as the sun dips behind the mountains.

A Photographer’s Dream

The light at Steinvikholmen in the late afternoon is something special. As the sun drops, the stones seem to glow, and the whole landscape shifts into warm hues and soft shadows. Whether you’re into landscapes, architecture, or details, this spot offers variety and peace in equal measure.

Here’s what makes it great for photography:

• Golden hour transforms the entire scene — from the grassy approach to the textured stones of the ruin.
• Perfect place for silhouettes, reflections, and backlit shots with the sun over the fjord.
• Easy to move around the site and explore different angles, both close-up and wide.
• Quiet and not overly trafficked, giving you time and space to compose without distractions.

Tips for Shooting

• Arrive about an hour before sunset to catch both the golden hour and the changing sky afterward.
• Bring a tripod if you want to shoot slower exposures as the light fades.
• A wide-angle lens captures the full scene, but don’t forget to zoom in for textures on the stonework.
• Watch the tide! The reflections in the water are best at calm moments near high tide.

📍 Getting There

Steinvikholmen is located on the Skatval peninsula in Stjørdal, about 35 minutes from Trondheim by car. There’s parking nearby and a short walk out to the island via a pedestrian bridge.

👉 View on Google Maps
Coordinates: 63.5685° N, 10.7887° E

Åsenfjorden – sunset in low perspective (Canon R6 + EF16-35mm f/2.8L – 1/5sec – f/10 – ISO 100 – 16mm – HDR)

The bridge to the castle Steinvikholm in sunset (Canon R6 + EF16-35mm f/2.8L – 0.8sec – f/10 – ISO 100 – 16mm – HDR)

Poles in water – Canon R6 + EF16-35mm f/2.8L – 1/1600sec – f/11 – ISO 800 – 16mm – HDR)

Long Exposure – low perspective – thr bridge to the castle in sunset (Canon R6 + EF16-35mm f/2.8L – 1.3sec – f/13 – ISO 100 – HDR)

Low perspective – the start of the bridge to the castle (Canon R6 + EF16-35mm f/2.8L – 0.8sec – f/13 – ISO100 – 16mm – HDR)

Low perspective – the start of the bridge to the castle (Canon R6 + EF16-35mm f/2.8L – 0.8sec – f/13 – ISO100 – 16mm – HDR)

Low perspective -reflections – the start of the bridge to the castle (Canon R6 + EF16-35mm f/2.8L – 2.5sec – f/13 – ISO100 – 16mm – HDR)