Thanks for helpful advice.

I agree with tommy777 that it doesn't make much sense to deny Star Gold entrance even though they're not flying Star Alliance. Once you've managed to obtain Gold status for flying on Star-carriers, you should be allowed into lounges regardless. That's what "qualification" is for.

If I then decide only to fly Ryan Air (for some insane reason ), but still enjoy the lounge benefits, I would only fail in requalifying for Gold next year - thus losing the benefits. I would be happy to pay a fee to be granted access too, especially when the layover is long.

In this case, flying with SAS/Star Alliance on the travel in question, would take much longer and cost at least 3x as much. If they gave me points for the money spent, and not for the miles flown, I'd maybe give it a thought