This article might seem somewhat peculiar, given that I’m in my mid-thirties and appear further from marital bliss than ever before. However, having traversed norway in all directions, I’ve encountered numerous breathtakingly romantic hotels where I could easily envision spending a few nights with my dream bride. Are you that bride? Then write a love letter to… No, of course not. You’re here because you’re considering norway for your honeymoon, and I must say, that’s an excellent idea.
The sheer number of awe-inspiring impressions you’ll gather here are meant to be shared with your beloved. As such, I thought it fitting to present to you all the magnificent locations I’ve come across over the past decade. Of diverse plumage, I advise you to thoroughly examine each location. Every hotel is practically a destination in itself, but also offers an excellent starting point for all manner of Norwegian adventures. Let’s elope!
It doesn’t get much more romantic than hotel Union Øye. Not only is it secluded, surrounded by stunning nature, but it also boasts a magnificent suite you can book. If you’re somewhat snobbish like me, snob means “sine nobilitate” (without nobility), the decor will particularly appeal to you. I don’t believe there are more beautiful hotels in norway than this one, at least if you’re somewhat classically inclined.
And what a history it has. I sometimes wonder who we’ll still be talking about 100 years from now. Which writers stood the test of time? Which presidents left the world better than they found it? Which films became classics? hotel Union Øye at least answers some of those questions by mentioning some former guests who enjoyed their breakfast here in the past century. Among them, Emperor Wilhelm (that illustrious figure with the peculiar arm), Karen Blixen ordered eggs Benedict, and Roald Amundsen had a glass of whiskey before or after reaching the North Pole as a reward for his efforts.
Depending on where in the world you’re reading this blog, this may or may not mean anything to you. I’m writing this with a European perspective, after all. What’s undeniable is that hotel Union Øye is on a list of places with exceptional allure. It’s again one of those magical places that make you wonder how on earth you can have such an exceptional stay in such a relatively remote location. But that’s precisely the appeal in the case of such locations, it’s the breathtaking natural surroundings that truly make this hotel a destination in its own right.
Besides its incredibly atmospheric interior, the walls here also whisper tales of history. If only those walls could tell us the secrets exchanged by European elites in these corridors, we’d probably have a bit of a different view on the historic events that shaped European history. The hotel is located approximately a 2-hour drive from Ålesund. As I mentioned before, that’s relatively close by Norwegian standards. My favourite seasons for such places are autumn or winter, owing to the incredible cosiness that permeates this hotel. If you’re in love, or not married, read no further and book a stay at hotel Union Øye.
Norwegians describe it as the adventure hotel. And with that, the crux is largely articulated. Dalen hotel, a historic establishment nestled in the historic region of Telemark, opened its doors in 1894 and seems plucked from an enthralling children’s tale of fairies, kings, and magical creatures. The hotel stands as one of the largest wooden structures in norway and boasts a rich history as a beloved destination for European nobility and royalty. It has been preserved in its original style, offering a unique blend of historical charm and modern comfort. Each space is breathtaking in its own right.
The setting, the interior, and the beautiful rooms are extremely romantic. And do visit the Soria Moria sauna, one of the most beautiful public saunas in the country if you ask me. If you’re contemplating marriage, this is an excellent honeymoon destination.
Close to hotel 29|2 Aurland, you can find Stegastien. A magnificent viewing platfrom. Photo by Robert Bye on Unsplash
29|2 Aurland is a small-scale boutique hotel, family-run, and strategically positioned within a stone’s throw of numerous breathtaking tourist destinations including the Flåmsbana, Stegastien viewpoint and countless scenic routes along fjords and over mountain passes. Nestled in an elongated valley with a deep blue river and stunning steep slopes, it’s a mere fifteen-minute drive from Flåm. The hotel boasts an incredibly tasteful décor, marked by meticulous attention to detail. The hospitality extends to guests with a sense that each arrival is the first. Culinary offerings are nothing short of artistry, with beautifully presented dishes featuring fresh, top-tier ingredients.
If you possess a musical talent, feel free to inquire about playing a piece by Chopin on the grand piano gracing the communal dining hall. And beware, due to limited availability, rooms have a tendency to sell out long in advance and for good reason. This is one of the smaller hotels in this list, which makes a stay there all the more unique and, in my eyes, excellent for newlyweds.
Nestled within the scenic Steigen Archipelago off the coast of Northern norway, Manshausen Island beckons as a singular destination where adventure, tranquillity, and a profound connection with nature await. It’s a bit of a cliché, but I dare to call it a destination in itself. Taking the amazing view you have from the seaside cabins into account, a stay here is a justified item on a bucket list.
Manshausen boasts an array of 16 structures, among which nine Sea Cabins stand as epitomes of understated elegance, offering unparalleled vistas and an ambiance of serene minimalism. Designed with meticulous attention to comfort, these cabins feature expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that seamlessly merge the interior with the captivating waterscape. The sea cabins have won a ton of architectural awards, for obvious reasons[1].
You have a small cabin for yourself with an incredible view over the rugged coastal landscape, with the peaks of Lofoten in the distance. All meals are served in the central restaurant which is somewhat the beating heart of the island. And speaking of those meals. The quality is high here, with fish playing the leading role. If you have even the slightest love for fresh air, kayaking and open fires, then you would do well to spend a few nights here as newlyweds. If only for the location and the delightful beds.
It is now clear that I am attempting to describe the most elegant hotel in Stavanger: Eilert Smith hotel. While the exterior is a manifestation of functionalism, on the inside, you immediately find yourself in the grandeur of mid-century design. This seems to be a reference to the period when Stavanger became prosperous, consciously or unconsciously. Anyway, in terms of hospitality, Eilert Smith hotel stands head and shoulders above when it comes to Stavanger. And this is not only because of the elegance of the rooms and common areas.
The staff also understands very well what guests expect when choosing such a hotel for their stay. Truly, everything is done to make your stay as pleasant as possible, and all with a kind of natural elegance (which I wish I mastered). It might be strange for a blogger, but I am a bit short of words to sum up what makes the level of service so special in a few sentences[1].
Perhaps I can best use a scene from ‘The Bear’ (SE02, EP07) to illustrate it. It feels a bit like the staff passing notes to each other all day with little details about the guests, making everything and everyone seem to be excellently synchronized. I don’t know how they do it. But they do it excellently.
Ask for the Eilert’s Residence. A luxurious penthouse on the top floor of the hotel. Incredibly furnished and you have all the privacy there.
The Juvet Landskaps Hotell serves primarily as a frame for an ever-changing exhibition of seasons: a forest so green it almost hurts your eyes, water from the wild-flowing river so blue it seems like dye has been added, and mountain slopes disappearing into the low-hanging clouds, leaving much to the imagination and making this in my opinion one of the best hotels in norway.
Don’t forget to visit their sauna as well. The view from there is equally spectacular. For those adventurous and warm-blooded, taking a dip in the icy river is a must.
The hotel staff is amazing. They are highly customer-oriented and will ensure you have a great time. The Juvet Landscape hotel is the epitome of what makes norway so fantastic: stunning nature, reverence for the elements, and warm hospitality.
Even though the prices might be a bit high, once you realise that this is one of the few hotel experiences you’ll never forget, it’s actually quite reasonable. Due to the hotel‘s small size, it’s important to book early if you want to stay here. I recommend booking at least 3 months in advance to secure the most beautiful bedroom in norway. I’ve never been able to manage to book a night with all my spontaneous trips. But if I were to get married, it would be here!
To renovate, grow, blossom, harvest, ferment, grill, preserve, salt, and smoke – these are the (culinary) arts practised at hotel Sundal (formerly called the Hardanger Fjord Lodge). Beyond this, it also stands as a testament to the elevation of hospitality to an art form. Once again, I find myself immersed in a place so uniquely characterised that it transcends quantification in stars, existing only within the realm of experiences[1].
In my estimation, this constitutes true luxury—not defined by stars or the dimensions of a room’s television, but by the presence of a bed within an environment so unparalleled that no other establishment can rival it.
The habitual considerations of star ratings and budget constraints, which often preoccupy travellers when selecting accommodations, find no relevance at hotel Sundal. With a mere nine rooms, the lodge remains perpetually uncluttered. Anticipate mingling with fellow travellers during set dinner times, thereby contributing to the singular charm of the experience—momentarily becoming part of an exclusive assemblage in an extraordinary setting.
Attempting to articulate the tastefulness of the hotel‘s interior leaves me momentarily at a loss for words. The classic and historical attributes of the venue have been subtly elevated, eschewing nostalgia for a contemporary aesthetic. Sustainability, a prevailing ethos, permeates not only the fundamental elements within the rooms but extends to the meticulously curated breakfasts and dinners. In stark contrast to chain hotels with lofty sustainability proclamations, often discarding a significant portion of their breakfast buffets after 11:00 in the morning, hotel Sundal adheres to a principled approach—local products supporting the indigenous economy and society.
In accordance with the lodge’s ethos of savouring life’s moments, the pace is deliberately unhurried, affording due attention to every detail. If you attach even the slightest value to a high degree of attention to detail, then this is your place! And in my eyes, extremely romantic and suitable for one or more nights of your honeymoon.
You’ve maybe heard about the Art Nouveau buildings characterising Ålesund. Exactly that elegance can be found at hotel 1904. I always find it a bit complicated to use superlatives like “the best” or “the most beautiful” or “the loveliest” when I’m not talking about my girlfriend. So, I’ll proceed with caution. This is one of the most beautiful and elegant hotels in all of norway. Quite nuanced, don’t you think?
In previous stories, I hinted that I used to work as an interior designer. I can confidently say that I have a sort of professional eye for interior spaces. I immediately notice the materials used—not just the curtains but also the baseboards and the flooring. Then comes composition and lighting. But, well, I won’t bore you with that. But if you even slightly appreciate beautifully designed spaces, book a few nights here. Especially during the darker months, this place is an oasis of perfectly styled contemporary cosiness.
I walked in during the summer out of curiosity, precisely because of what I just described. I was impressed, as well as by the staff, who welcomed me with understated warmth, despite the fact that I had a huge backpack on my back and was wearing flip-flops. Not exactly the typical attire for the clientele that usually populates the lobby here. All in all, I didn’t stay here overnight because it’s not budget-friendly for a simple blogger like me. Perhaps the most stylish option in this list for newlyweds who want to immerse themselves in urban luxury.
WonderInn is just an hour’s drive from Oslo, yet you find yourself immersed in a completely different world. Among rolling hills, ancient farms, sleepy villages, and vast stretches of woodland, a small paradise reveals itself; WonderInn (norway). After navigating countless country lanes, you suddenly veer onto a gravel road. This road winds past majestic farmhouses and ventures deeper into the fields until you reach the ultimate destination.
The grounds where WonderInn resides can only be described as idyllic, romantic, even heavenly. A magnificent old birch tree casts its shade over a grassy expanse adorned with several tables and chairs, perfect for enjoying breakfast in the morning. Currently, there’s no one else around, except for a chicken wandering near the tables, perhaps in search of the last crumbs from breakfast. An old barn has been transformed into a communal space filled with second-hand furniture and charming decorations. There’s a small kitchenette and a shower/toilet.
What catches your eye is the abundance of animals all around. The chicken has disappeared for now, but behind one of the sheds, two adorable little pigs stand, happily oinking. They gladly welcome a stroke and seem rather fond of humans (we really don’t deserve animals). As you turn the corner along one of the gravel paths, on your way to the river, you suddenly come face to face with four somewhat shy yet curious llamas. It fills your heart with joy, and even though you’ve only been here for 20 minutes, it feels like the worries of daily life are far behind.
By the river, there’s a sort of jetty with a terrace and a small sauna. From the sauna, you can relish a splendid view of the river, and with just a few steps, you can plunge into the invigorating cold water for a refreshing break. I dare you!
We had reserved one of the igloos. It’s located about two hundred metres away from the main building, discreetly nestled on a gentle slope within a small patch of woodland. With our backpacks securely fastened, we stroll towards the igloo, carrying a few bottles of wine and some delicious treats. To our delight, it’s exquisitely furnished, boasting a heavenly bed. It might just be the most comfortable bed I’ve ever slept in.
From the plateau where the igloo stands, you’re treated to a breathtaking view of the landscape, the farmstead, and the river. Amidst the towering pines, dozens of birds engage in lively conversations. It’s the height of summer, a bit too warm, yet there’s a tempting urge to light the wood-burning stove.
After a delightful evening spent outdoors on the terrace and an hour in the sauna, it’s time to retire for the night. The next morning, you can collect breakfast to enjoy beneath the ancient birch tree.
Super-tip: book one of the cabins close to the river, as they come with a private outdoor bubblebath. Gorgeous, gorgeous!
As I find myself in Trondheim, a city I wholeheartedly recommend for its abundance of excellent restaurants, I must suggest considering a few nights’ at Stokkøya Strandhotell. Though it’s a couple of hours’ drive from Trondheim, I assure you it’s more than worth contemplating.
The hotel‘s ethos seems deeply rooted in a generous, community-oriented island spirit. This is beautifully illustrated by a charming historical anecdote about a fisherman who, upon discovering a cache of alcohol, chose to share his bounty with the entire community.
What truly sets this accommodation apart is its innovative architecture, masterfully designed by the firm Pir II with the noble aim of enticing more residents to this remote municipality. I was particularly struck by the staff’s exceptional friendliness and proactivity, offering a level of customer service that’s truly commendable. The hotel‘s restaurant is a culinary delight, earning high praise for its locally sourced, homemade fare. Fresh seafood, vegetables, and lamb feature prominently, with an Italian chef adding a special flair to the gastronomic experience.
For those inclined towards activity, there’s no shortage of options. Guests can indulge in kayaking, paddleboarding, cycling, or perhaps a rejuvenating session in the beach sauna. The surrounding area offers intriguing attractions, including a nearby cave with potential Bronze Age significance and a charming local bakery, accessible via a picturesque beach walk. I must emphasise the hotel‘s laudable commitment to responsible tourism, with a keen focus on the sustainable use of resources and energy.
In essence, Stokkøya Strandhotell transcends the notion of mere accommodation. It’s a unique experience that captures the very essence of Norwegian island life, promising visitors an unforgettable and authentic travel adventure. It’s precisely for this reason that I deem it worthy of nomination in this list of splendid hotels for honeymooners. Stokkøya will undoubtedly make your honeymoon rather exceptional!
Now, allow me to introduce you to hotel Sommerro, or ‘Summerpeace’ – unquestionably the most ‘sexy’ hotel in Oslo, and quite possibly in the entire country. Should your weekend inclinations lean towards a heartfelt proposal of some sort, then this is undoubtedly the place to do so. Words, I’m afraid, fail to adequately capture the opulence and lushness that this establishment bestows upon its patrons. It’s thus eminently suitable for those who have just embarked upon matrimonial bliss.
A personal favourite within its confines is the resplendent bar (Ekspedisjons Hallen), reminiscent of the roaring ’20s, where an ambiance of elegance unfolds without veering into the obscene. The art deco interiors transport you to a different era, amplified by the live jazz – an auditory treat that envelops you in a cocoon where time seems to stand still. Picture an evening spent there with your beloved, leisurely watching ice cubes waltz in your chilled amaretto sour. hotel Sommerro, I posit, transcends into a splendid tableau for any romantic narrative; faithful or unfai… no, I mustn’t! Suffice it to say, hotel Sommerro is as alluring as its clientele.
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