Historical walk in Tøvika
Historical walk in Tøvika: Traffic, farm and time jump – with destination at Martnadssletta
On Sunday, April 27, 2025, the Averøy History Association organized a historical walk in Tøvika, and nearly 75 people met in bright sunshine at the Tøvikveien/Kornstadveien intersection. It was a memorable tour along old traffic arteries, through cultural history, local knowledge and small, powerful stories – with Martnadssletta as the last stop.
From traffic hub to school road in rough terrain
Guided by former mayor John Harry Kvalshaug, the participants heard how Tøvik was once an important traffic hub in the municipality – long before the car took over from boats and paths. Historian and author Terje Holm also participated and contributed insight into the historical ferry connection to Tøvika, which was actually the shortest in all of Møre og Romsdal.
Along the path, there were stops at old farmsteads and clearing farms, including Nermyrene, where Torill Marie Roksvaag spoke warmly and vividly about her upbringing in the area. She described life on a small farm without a road, where the stroller was parked at the neighbor's, and children were carried in a backpack the last bit home. Today, she still owns the property, and shared both memories and changes that have occurred since childhood.
The history team also highlighted how schoolchildren had to walk long distances in all kinds of weather – something that made many in the hiking group nod in recognition.
A marketplace from the Viking Age
After a good hour of hiking in fantastic spring weather, the hiking group arrived at Martnadssletta – a place with roots dating back to the Viking Age. The area has historically been a meeting place for trade and socializing, and several burial mounds and cultural relics on the property testify to long-term activity.
Today, Martnadssletta houses Averøy's own deer farm, and many took the opportunity to greet the deer that curiously followed the visit. For many, this was a highlight – and not least an eldorado for children.
Local food and warm company
Upon arrival, the participants were greeted with deer burgers from the grill, campfire coffee, waffles and tastings of cured deer meat. The atmosphere was good by the barn wall, where there was time for both conversations, laughter and reflections on the day's impressions.
And as ordered: The rain waited patiently. Only when the last waffles had been eaten and the last conversations had been made, did the first drops come – just as the official part of the trip was over.
Thank you for your visit – and welcome back!
We at Martnadssletta would like to thank Averøy Historielag for putting the end to this great hike for us, and thank everyone who took the trip. It was a pleasure to welcome both old acquaintances and new visitors. Days like these remind us how rich and vibrant history is – when we just take the time to explore it together.
Please stay tuned – both at Martnadssletta and at the history club – for more events to come!