Svalbard Hotell - Polfareren

The breakfast was excellent, and the hotel is an easy walk from the supermarket and a few restaurants if you want a change from eating in the hotel restaurant. We really enjoyed our stay. The room had everything we needed, and the seating around the lobby fire was a favorite, with coffee and tea available.

Our standard room was in a separate building, so getting drinking water or breakfast meant going outside. A friend had booked the same room type but ended up in the main building, so it seems to depend on luck at check-in. The room was worn, the Wi-Fi kept cutting out because the connection was poor, and the TV had only one channel. The staff weren’t friendly or welcoming. The man with a mustache at reception was outright rude several times when I dealt with him. There are probably better places to stay in this Arctic town.

The hotel is very convenient, right in the middle of town, with lots of nearby restaurants and plenty of places within safe walking distance. I’d stay here again. The main building has a lift, breakfast area, small bar, and a little lounge with a fire. A second building a few feet away has only stairs, so confirm which building you’ll be in if you need a lift. I chose a superior room and found it adequate, with space for three cases. It had radiators, a shower over the bath, and a very small kettle. Guests have to take their shoes off at the entrance; slippers are provided, but they’ve been used, so bring your own if you prefer. There’s parking. Dinner was very high standard, almost better than I’d expect from the hotel, while the breakfast buffet was just adequate.

You have to take off your shoes when you enter and put on the hotel slippers. Outdoor shoes are kept in a room beside the main entrance. The public area is cozy and quiet, a nice place to sit and relax if you like the vibe. Our room was decent in size, very clean and quiet, and they left cute polar bear chocolates on the bed. The staff were friendly and helpful, even helping us order a taxi. The airport bus drops you right outside, so the location is super convenient.