Kløfta is a town that's derived from the word "cleft," likely named after the town's main road that splits for Oslo, Trondheim and Kongsvinger. Now considered a commuter town of Oslo, thanks to its road and rail links, it played a major role in Norway's commercial development and was a prominent settlement during the Viking Age. Norway's first public railway track, the Norwegian Trunk Railway, was laid through Kløfta in 1854. This connected Oslo with Eidsvoll and provided crucial travel via steamboat to Lillehammer.
Kløfta is known for Ullensaker Church, the fourth such church built on this spot since the 12th century. The interiors include an altarpiece by Johan Reinholt and decorations by Alf Rolfsen. Another noted church, Hovin Church, can be found in Ullensaker, north of Kløfta. It was built by Oluf Iversen Helmen, who died during its construction in 1695.
Kløfta's principal shopping district is Romerikssenteret, a shopping mall west of the rail tracks. It contains various Norwegian and international brands, a food court, services and ample parking. Alternatively, fast connections to Oslo allow for shopping trips at the Oslo City shopping mall or the luxurious Steen & Strøm department store.
Kløfta is known for its Miklagard Golfklub, generally regarded as one of Norway's best golf courses. It consists of an 18-hole international championship course, a driving range and a short game area. Widely used by Oslo-based golfers, the club also boasts training workshops, dining and shopping.
MiA — Museums in Akershus is a network of 18 museums throughout this area, offering a deep dive into the culture and history of Akershus. Just south of Kløfta in Skedsmokorset, you'll find the Skedsmo region museum (Skedsmo bygdemuseum), which details the cultural history of the area within a traditional house. A museum card will give you year-long access to all of the MiA attractions, which are easily reached by car.
A car or van hire in Kløfta is an excellent way to discover the region surrounding Oslo. It takes roughly 30 minutes to drive into Oslo's center from Kløfta, providing plentiful opportunities to discover the Norwegian capital. Elsewhere, Kløfta is within easy reach of the Nordre Øyeren naturreservat, a wetland reserve with spectacular fishing, sailing and hiking opportunities. Fetsund Booms, a logging museum, is located on its shores. 17 km north and nearby Oslo Airport, you can visit both the Ullensaker Museum, a municipal museum, and the Norwegian Armed Forces Aircraft Collection.