29|2 Aurland, Aurland

Pros  

• Enjoy a gorgeous and sustainable riverside property surrounded by steep mountains and waterfalls, with access to hiking, biking, kayaking, and fly fishing.
• The hard-working owners, a family who lives on the property, have added thoughtful touches to every aspect of the stay, including the rooms' unique decor, which mixes repurposed furnishings with modern luxury.
• Meals include breakfast, an afternoon snack (with local cider), and a three-course dinner using ingredients from the expansive vegetable garden.

Cons

• Some rooms have low (slanted) ceilings and small spaces, which add to the authentic rustic charm but might feel tight for tall travelers.
• The village is a 2-mile walk away due to its remote location, but guests can borrow free bikes and arrange transport for a fee.

Additional Notes From Lilly

I entered the property by driving over a roaring river and knew it would be special. The gravel driveway felt like I was entering a family member's home—and it was. On one side of the turnaround entrance is the owner's home, and on the other is the farm with horses and cows in the distance. I was overwhelmed by the 360-degree views and sounds of waterfalls. It wasn't long before I met the gardener, the chef, and the owner's teenage daughter, who offered me a glass of cider (with apples grown on the property, of course). Though I was only there for a few hours (they were sold out during my stay), the owner, Tone, told me about various environmental concerns and conservation efforts in the area. She hugged me upon departure and I felt like I had met a new friend—likely a common experience for guests. 

Authenticity

This historic fishing lodge was bought and renovated from 2012-2014 by a well-traveled couple, Bjorn and Tone, who left the city to pursue their dream of opening a boutique farmstay. Several 18th-century farmhouse buildings on the property have been restored to create 10 guest rooms, a reception area in the barn's old pig pen, and a lounge in the old eldhuset (smokehouse). All aspects of the property came from the owners, who are interested in interior design and craft building (they also hired an interior designer named Gunvor Røkhold to assist). Most guests stay two to three nights, allowing ample time to enjoy a slow travel experience, and you'll likely meet new friends from around the world during meals and activities. 

Location

The hotel is located in the picturesque Aurland Valley, directly next to the Aurland River and a 5-minute drive to the Aurlandsfjord. Guests who have a car can take a 5-minute drive to the charming village of Aurland with a bakery, glassblower, shoemaker, and the impressive Stegastein viewpoint, a scenic platform overlooking the fjord. A bit farther, about 15 minutes by car, is the village of Flåm, with a local brewery and the Flåm Railway. Guests can boat through the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord and hike, bike, fly-fish, and kayak. Free parking is available on the property.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The 10 rooms in this unique farm are located in several renovated farmstead buildings, with units divided among the Goat Barn suites and Fishermans Cabin rooms. Rooms have unique color schemes from painted timber walls, patterned wallpaper, and textiles that may have been purchased in Asia on one of the owners' trips abroad. Other notable aspects of the rooms include repurposed materials and antiques, which blend with modern furnishings to create a magazine-worthy effect. All rooms have WiFi and rain showers, while higher room categories have coffeemakers. Opt for the Lord Garvagh suite for views of the Turlid waterfall. Booking one or all of the buildings for groups is also possible.

Amenities

Because this is a seasonal property, the summer cuisine is a highlight. The chef uses as many ingredients from the on-site garden as possible, while others come from local farmers. The rate includes daily breakfast, an afternoon treat, and a three-course dinner at a communal table in the atmospheric ETE restaurant, a new addition to the property. Lunch packages can be arranged for tours and excursions. Guests can also book a private wood-fired hot tub and sauna experience.

Family-Friendliness

While Aurland 29|2 is a charming retreat due to its rustic accommodations and shared spaces, it may not be the most convenient for families with young children. However, families can opt for the Grandmother Suite, which has a master bedroom and a second bedroom with two single beds. 

Sustainability

29|2 Aurland is a certified Eco Lighthouse business whose owners aim to have the smallest carbon footprint possible. The kitchen team uses local, organic products, and they have a composting system. Plastics are avoided. Guests are encouraged to enjoy soft adventure activities like cycling, kayaking, walking, or skiing. The owner, Tone, used to be a full-time journalist and still writes features and even a documentary highlighting environmental issues in the fjords—she will be more than happy to talk about such topics in person.