Fjords
Historic fjord hotels: the most beautiful hotels on Norway’s fjords
Swiss chalet style, dragon style and views that have captivated kings, emperors and artists for more than a century. These are the historic fjord hotels we recommend, from Hardanger and the Sognefjord to the Hjørundfjord and Geiranger.
Long before fjord cruises and flights, travellers arrived by steamship and horse and cart. European aristocrats, emperors and artists were drawn to the Norwegian fjords, and along the water grew hotels in Swiss chalet and dragon style, with verandas, towers and views of waterfalls and snow-capped mountains. Many still stand, and staying in them is like travelling back in time.
These are the historic fjord hotels we recommend, and what makes each of them special.
The links to the hotels are partner links. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Hardanger
Hotel Ullensvang: the fjord hotel in Lofthus
A family-run hotel on the shore at Ullensvang, with outdoor pools and a restaurant overlooking the Hardangerfjord and the Folgefonna glacier. A traditional hotel with roots in the 1800s.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Ullensvang
Voss and the Nærøy valley
Fleischer’s Hotel: Swiss style by Vangsvatnet
A traditional luxury hotel in Voss, with Swiss-style towers and verandas, two restaurants and a short trip to both the Flåm Railway and Hardanger.
Book your stay: See rooms at Fleischer’s Hotel
Stalheim Hotel: the view over the Nærøy valley
The hotel sits at the edge of Stalheimskleiva, with one of Norway’s most famous views down over the Nærøy valley. A classic stop between Voss and the Sognefjord.
Book your stay: See rooms at Stalheim Hotel
The view from Stalheim Hotel.
The Sognefjord and Flåm
Fretheim Hotel: tradition at the head of the Aurlandsfjord
A classic fjord hotel in Flåm with two restaurants, close to the Flåm Railway and the fjord boats. A perfect base for the Nærøyfjord.
Book your stay: See rooms at Fretheim Hotel
Flåmsbrygga Hotel: on the quay in Flåm
A hotel on the bay in Flåm, with a brewpub and restaurants, and the fjord boats right outside.
Book your stay: See rooms at Flåmsbrygga Hotel
Hotel Aurlandsfjord: peaceful in Aurland
A hotel with a restaurant and bar in Aurland, a calm alternative close to Flåm.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Aurlandsfjord
Sunnmøre: the Hjørundfjord and Geiranger
Hotel Union Øye: a fairytale on the Hjørundfjord
A historic dragon-style hotel at the head of the Hjørundfjord, surrounded by the Sunnmøre Alps. It has welcomed kings, emperors and writers since the late 1800s.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Union Øye
Hotel Union Geiranger Bad & Spa: a spa by the World Heritage fjord
A hotel in Geiranger with a spa and views over the Geirangerfjord.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Union Geiranger
Hotel Brosundet: Art Nouveau in Ålesund
A hotel in an old warehouse on the Brosundet channel in Ålesund, at the heart of the famous Art Nouveau town.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Brosundet
Fretheim Hotel in Flåm.
How to choose a fjord hotel
Choose the fjord first: Hardanger is known for orchards and waterfalls, the Sognefjord for its depth and length, and Sunnmøre for dramatic mountains.
Think about your route: Many combine several hotels on a round trip through fjord country.
Season: Many fjord hotels are seasonal, especially the most historic ones. Check dates before planning.
Book early: The best-known hotels fill quickly in summer.
Waking up on the fjord
There is something special about waking up on a fjord. The morning mist lifts off the water, the mountains are mirrored in the fjord and waterfalls roar in the distance. At the historic hotels you eat breakfast in salons with views that have been the same for generations.
When to stay on the fjords
Summer is high season, with long light evenings and all boats and roads open. May and June bring blossoming fruit trees in Hardanger and waterfalls at their mightiest, while September brings autumn colours and fewer visitors. Read our complete guide to the Norwegian fjords, and see how to explore them on Norway in a Nutshell.
Frequently asked questions about fjord hotels
What is the most famous fjord hotel in Norway?
Among the best known are Hotel Union Øye on the Hjørundfjord, Fleischer’s Hotel in Voss, Stalheim Hotel and Hotel Ullensvang in Hardanger.
Are fjord hotels open all year?
Some are open all year, while several of the historic hotels are open in summer only. Always check the season.
Where should you stay to experience the Nærøyfjord?
Flåm, with Fretheim Hotel and Flåmsbrygga Hotel, and Stalheim Hotel above the Nærøy valley are good bases.
Can you combine fjord hotels with Bergen?
Yes, many start or end their fjord trip in Bergen. See our best hotels in Bergen.