The phrase "short detour" means taking a quick and temporary route or path that is slightly different from the usual path or direction. Full definition
It was a pleasant, short detour on our way South and an introduction to the karri trees, a species of eucalyptus that can be over 60 metres high. (myfavouriteescapes.com)
Yau also looked at how many additional breweries were within a five - mile radius of the main route and found that if you're willing to take a couple of short detours, you can hit up as many as 1,414 additional brewers! (foodandwine.com)
After a few short detours, all cylinders are firing today. (hacked.com)