In short:
- Tautra is connected to Frosta by a causeway of about 2.4 km.
- The monastery ruins are from a Cistercian monastery founded in 1207.
- The island and Svaet are a nature reserve and Ramsar site.
Tautra is only 1.5 square kilometres, but few places in Trøndelag have so much history and nature gathered in one spot. You drive out to the island along a long causeway from Frosta, with the fjord on both sides.
The monastery ruins from 1207
Cistercian monks founded Tautra Abbey in 1207, and the monastery was in operation until 1531. The ruins have been owned by Fortidsminneforeningen since 1846. Standing between the walls, it is easy to imagine the monks farming the land and fishing in the fjord.
Tautra Mariakloster
In 1999 seven Cistercian nuns came to Tautra, and in 2006 they moved into the new convent. The building in glulam and slate was designed by Jensen & Skodvin and has received a lot of attention for its architecture. Visitors are welcome to see the church, but remember that this is a living convent.
World-class birdlife
Tautra and Svaet are a nature reserve, bird sanctuary and Ramsar site. The shallow water around the island is important for ducks, waders and other seabirds. If you want to learn more about what you see, you can join a guided bird safari, where you borrow binoculars from us.
The monastery garden
Next to the ruins is Klostergården with a restaurant, microbrewery, farm shop and accommodation. A natural stop after a walk around the island.
Join a guided tour from Tinghaugen to the monastic life on Tautra.
Frequently asked questions
Can you drive to Tautra?
Yes, Tautra is connected to Frosta by a causeway of about 2.4 km.
When was Tautra Abbey founded?
The Cistercian monastery on Tautra was founded in 1207 and closed in 1531.
Can you see birds on Tautra all year?
There are birds there all year, but spring and autumn with migrating birds are especially good.