Unique traditions in a magical culinary landscape!

Join a culinary journey through lush fields, historic farms and mountain-side restaurants that serve far more than potatoes…

Innlandet is not just a picture-perfect destination – it’s also a paradise for food-loving travelers. From Hamar and northward toward Gudbrandsdalen, unique taste experiences await in combination with authentic Norwegian hospitality, tradition and innovation.

Norway’s pantry in Innlandet

Innlandet is Norway’s largest agricultural county, producing large quantities of the food we eat in the country. Many might first think of potatoes when we talk about this region, but it has so much more to offer. Particularly in recent years, there has been a shift away from food production being solely about filling stomachs – it’s also about health, both mental and physical, preparedness and culture. And it’s about pride. About showcasing what is produced, whether it’s at a large distillery or a small farm dairy.

We must be proud

Henning Holmbakken from Matfylket Innlandet would probably love to stand on every rooftop in the country and shout out how proud he is of what Innlandet produces. Because if there’s one thing he thinks the county residents are too poor at, it’s talking loudly about what they actually achieve.

– We are far too poor at telling people how good we are! We deserve to feel that we can beat our chests more, because we have so much to offer. It’s about using the resources we have, and telling people about it. Not least, it’s important to highlight the unique people who are passionate about food production. I get so proud when we can serve fantastic food exclusively from our region. Then I simply get a bit moved.

Start by Mjøsa – local food of exceptional quality

And what a journey through culture, flavors and traditions this county is!
Near Hamar lies Fredheim Farm Shop, a charming stop with shelves bursting with local food – everything from freshly baked bread, eggs, cheese, honey and seasonal vegetables. Here you can fill your picnic basket or just enjoy a chat with people who truly are passionate about food production.

– We have so many skilled people throughout all of Innlandet, emphasizes Holmbakken. – I get extremely happy when I meet people who glow with passion for what they make and serve. They don’t just want us to get full – they want us to get food that gives us something more. Something that provides health, joy and a taste of everything we can achieve. Flavor craftsmanship and modern brewing.

Photo: Fredheim farm shop

In Lillehammer you’ll find Lillehammer Microbrewery, where you can taste local beer brewed with passion. Preferably combined with one of the brewery’s own dishes, which pair perfectly with the brews.

Further north you’ll reach Øyerfjellet, where you’ll find Pellestova Hotel – a historic hotel with panoramic views and a dining room rooted in traditional cuisine. They also operate their own slaughterhouse, giving locally sourced meat an entirely new meaning. The menu features lamb, elk and other game dishes with refined flavors and the mountain’s tranquility as a backdrop.

Not far away lies Nermo Hotel, a family-run hotel with warmth, soul and exquisite food. Here you get homemade dishes made from scratch, often with ingredients from the local area. On your way north you must make a stop at Anni’s Sausage Factory in Ringebu. Anni Byskov and her team have set a new standard for sausage making in Norway with flavorful sausages, cold cuts and meat products made with great love for the craft. The shop is a treasure trove for meat lovers.

Jotunheimen National Park can offer great nature experiences, but also food. Bessheim Mountain Lodge and Lemonsjøen Mountain Lodge are places you won’t want to miss. Both mountain lodges are known for homemade food, warm hospitality and outstanding location in the midst of magnificent nature.

– Travel experiences and agriculture are completely dependent on each other, says Holmbakken. – Tourists come here for the nature and culture, but food is a central part of the experience. That’s why we work closely together to showcase all the fantastic things we have.

Anni’s sausage factory in Ringebu
Photo: Anni Byskov