Hardanger Basecamp

The scenery here is beautiful, and I was happy when I checked in. That changed when steam from my shower set off the smoke alarm by the bathroom door. I hadn’t closed the bathroom door, and I’m sorry about the trouble. Two staff members came quickly and asked me to open the door for ventilation. One male staff member was very rude, spoke harshly, and told me I’d have to pay for the alarm. I felt as if I were being lectured like a prisoner, and it left me very upset. I didn’t expect a shower to trigger the alarm, and I regret causing a problem, but I was also shaken by how I was treated. It spoiled what had been a wonderful trip, and I couldn’t enjoy the view afterward. I don’t want to discuss it further because I’m sure you have an explanation. From your replies to other guests, it seems you always have one and never accept fault. If you think it’s polite for staff to point at guests and lecture them, that says enough.

The location is superb, right at the fjord’s edge, with steps down to the water if you want to swim. Some rooms are worn, but the hotel is being renovated bit by bit and has a fair amount of charm. The staff were very friendly. I heard there’s a sauna, but with temperatures at 30C during our stay, we didn’t need to check it out.

The hotel feels a little dated, but the location is fantastic. The fjord view is mesmerizing, spectacular at every hour of the day. The restaurant is great too, and the breakfast buffet is awesome.

I booked directly, not online, so I wasn’t sure what to expect when I arrived for my four-night stay. I was tired and recovering from a bad fall, but they greeted me so warmly that it felt like meeting friends, even family. I loved the place and intend to return. I’m not much of a walker. Next time I’d like to explore the town more, especially the church, which I hear is beautiful inside, and learn about Ulvik’s famous poet, Olav H. Hauge. The poem “It is that Dream,” translated by Matt Bagguley, stayed with me. My room was a good size and had a balcony. Each room has a small private table and two chairs overlooking the fjord, which was just right for relaxing. This family-run hotel is welcoming and efficiently run. When it was time to leave, Robert drove me to the coach stop. Since it was early, they made sure I could have breakfast beforehand. I look forward to returning as soon as I can, and recommend this lovely family hotel to everyone.