Hotel Aurlandsfjord, Aurland

Pros  

• This is a great mid-range option for travelers seeking modern interiors as an alternative to nearby hotels that exude more rustic charm.
• Enjoy direct views of the Aurlandsfjord from the restaurant (breakfast is complimentary) and front-facing rooms.
• The hotel is within walking distance of Aurland's attractions, like a famous shoe factory and a small beach for fjord swims.
• Sample innovative, seasonal cuisine with an eight-course tasting experience at Kest, the hotel's concept kitchen led by chef Mantas Vaidelis.

Cons

• The hotel's free parking lot may fill up on summer weekends (first-come, first-serve), but there's street parking in the area.  

Additional Notes From Lilly

I arrived at the hotel's traditional white entrance after walking through the small town of Aurland, with its glass shop, shoe factory, and bakery—all recommended—and was surprised to find modern interiors. The spacious lobby with soft music invites one to set up a laptop (if necessary) and relax with a drink purchased at the front desk or restaurant. I imagined that the chef's kitchen, where breakfast is served, is used for a range of events, while the renovated rooms provide picky travelers with a sleek home base while experiencing the adventurous and remote surroundings. I loved that my host showed me the self-serve laundry area as a way to help hikers feel at home after a rugged day on the nearby trails. 

Authenticity

This is a family-run hotel. Despite the renovated interiors and more modern vibe than other area hotels, there are elements of Norwegian charm with historic photography lining the walls near the front desk. Rooms also have large nature photographs to balance the modern look. Staff will make you feel welcome offering suggestions for the area, as well as events in the hotel.

Location

Located on the Aurlandsfjord—a scenic branch of the Sognefjord, Norway's longest fjord—Aurland offers more conveniences than the smaller village of Flåm. You'll find the ferry terminal, a bakery, a traditional glassblower, and a famous shoe factory that makes the original penny loafer called "Aurlands" (great for souvenirs) within walking distance. There's also a grocery store, a movie theater, and a beach area for swimming and picnics. Guests can park for free in a small lot in front of the hotel and there are electric vehicle chargers for a fee, though spots can fill up fast. 

Rooms & Bathrooms

The 30 renovated, Scandinavian-style rooms are a major draw, with caramel leather accents, mirror backlights, and hardwood-style floors. The sleek bathrooms are just as stylish, with black and white tile floors, new walk-in showers, and local bath products in eco-friendly dispensers. Families can opt for the Junior Suites that have sofa beds, while dog owners should nab the rooms with private terraces in the rear. Meanwhile, romantics may want to choose the front-facing options on the 3rd and 4th floors with private balconies and outstanding fjord views.

Amenities

A complimentary breakfast that focuses on locally sourced ingredients is served in the main restaurant space, which is also open for lunch and dinner with a backdrop of fjord views, new tilework, leather furnishings, and rattan chandeliers. The hotel also hosts Kest, where foodies can book ahead to experience an innovative eight-course tasting experience led by chef Mantas Vaidelis. Drinks and snacks (including beer and wine) are sold at the front desk, so you can sit and relax in the lobby any time of day. The adjacent communal lounge space has a large flat-screen TV for movies and sporting events (rooms don't have TVs) and a shuffleboard table, while the outdoorsy will appreciate the free self-serve laundry facilities.