Borregaard Hovedgård

Over a millennium ago, the Norwegian King Olav II Haraldsson founded a town that also served as a royal farm. It was called Borgargjerdi in Norse, which became the basis of its present name of Borregård. The agricultural town centered around Borregård prospered for the next 300 years due to royal patronage, though King Håkon V Magnusson would later pass it down to his son-in-law Havtore Jonsson.

The Borregård Hovedgård buildings and estate we see today were established in 1702, following a landslide that ravaged the area. Jens Wernersen Werenskiold, a Norwegian noble who owned the domain, immediately set about the reconstruction project, establishing a new farm at a much more stable location.

Businessman and industrialist Paul Olsen Thrane acquired the estate in 1814, and during his time, Sarpsborg was said to have regained its prominence as a bustling and productive town. An Englishman named John Henry Pelly became the next owner of Borregård Hovedgård in 1832. He also made additions to the estate, including a new wing.

The estate would coast through the next centuries relatively unchanged, though it underwent restoration and maintenance when it was owned by The Kellner-Partington Paper Pulp Co. Ltd. It took place in 1900, when the main building was subsequently used as the residence of the company executives.

Fortunately, Borregård Hovedgård did not fall into neglect during the latter 20th century. It was adapted as a conference and convention venue in 1988, and was said to be one of the secret meeting places of the Palestine Liberation Organization and the government of Israel, later resulting in the 1993 Oslo Accords. The estate's transformation into a heritage hotel was completed in 2025, providing travelers with a luxurious inland getaway blessed with beautiful nature and rich heritage.

Design and Architecture

The main building of the hotel is the manor house that was built in 1702, following the destruction of the previous buildings due to a landslide. Many aspects of this manor remain intact to this day, including its heavy wooden doors. Its aesthetics represent a transition from Norway's traditional timber construction to the Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles that became prevalent throughout Europe in the 18th century.

Later expansions, such as the additional wings and detached facilities, also signified the change from traditional farming to an industrialized system. Instead of animal sheds, the previous owners constructed a large barn, which has since also been converted and divided into accommodations and facilities.

It's worth noting that much of the original architecture remains intact, and the interior aesthetics adhere to classical time periods. Rooms and suites also retain an old-world ambiance, conjuring an atmosphere that reconnects guests with the Norway of the past.

Borregaard Hovedgård presents dining not just simply as meals, but as culinary experiences embedded with Norway's traditions and hospitality. These experiences revolve around special dinner services, such as their energizing breakfast that is served with fresh breads and heartwarming dishes. Come evening, guests will enjoy a fine three-course dinner of authentic Norwegian cuisine amidst a historic atmosphere.

The signature Sunday Buffet, held every Sunday from 1 pm until 5 pm, features a bountiful spread of delicious traditional dishes, modern favorites, as well as delectable desserts. They also prepare menus tailored for children.

Afternoon Tea is set in the manor's elegant spaces, where guests indulge and unwind with delightful blends and sinful pastries. Coffee and cake for Norwegians is just as iconic a part of the day as tea times are for the British. Look forward to relaxing moments, sipping rich coffee blends from all over the world, and tasting freshly baked homemade slices of cake.

Every 6 pm, the salons light up with mirth and spirit, as guests socialize and share tales. The Canapés and Storytelling experience offers carefully picked aperitifs and finger foods as the hosts regale guests with stories of the manor's past.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

For the summer, Borregård Hovedgård offers a selection of memorable on-site dining experiences you are encouraged to try. The Canapés and Storytelling session involves a fine evening of jovial discussions led by the hosts of the hotel, sharing tales about the manor and town's history over some delicious wines and finger foods. There are also the Coffee and Cake and Afternoon Tea sessions, which you can arrange for in advance through their website.

Around Sarpsborg, you'll also find a variety of amazing attractions showcasing the town's heritage. The Borgarsyssel Museum, for example, contains a vast collection of items and treasures dating back to the early Medieval Times. There's also the Tune Church, a 19th-century church built on the site where old Medieval churches once stood. For something family-friendly and educational, the Inspiria Science Center offers interactive exhibits your kids can try out.

Other Celebrations

Borregård Hovedgård has four venues on offer for your private events and corporate retreats. The Main House accommodates dinner events and receptions, while the Dining Hall, the Servants' Quarters, and the Barn can provide much more versatile events and configurations. The property also offers breakout rooms for small groups.