GamlaVærket Gjæstgiveri og Tracteringssted

GamlaVærket’s story goes back more than two hundred years, long before it became a hotel. Lauritz Smith Pedersen started the original brick factory here, known as GamlaVærket or The Old Factory. In 1782, he received special rights to produce bricks for all of Western Norway, which helped the factory grow fast and become the first real industrial site in Rogaland. The work was all done by hand, with a horse running the clay mill and a peat-fired kiln burning day and night. Later owners kept the factory moving, and its brick and clay craft became well known.

Today, GamlaVærket keeps that history alive. The hotel and restaurant sit inside the same old factory walls, and guests can still feel the story of the place in the brickwork, the textures, and the atmosphere. The hotel has also been a member of De Historiske - Historic Hotels & Restaurants of Norway since 2011.

GamlaVærket has a classic old factory style, with solid brick walls and simple lines that still show its past. The historic wing feels warm and nostalgic, and the newer rooms keep a clean classic look that fits the building well. The bridal suite sits above Langgata and is known as one of the most elegant spaces here.

A lot of the original brick walls from the late 1700s are still part of the main structure today. Each room has its own style with period inspired pieces and handpicked furniture. Most rooms have wooden floors, and some suites also show exposed wooden beams.

The whole place keeps the spirit of the first brick factory alive. The hotel stands between the restored fronts on Langgata and the lively St Olavs Gate, holding onto its old character while staying warm and inviting. GamlaVærket also makes sure guests feel comfortable, with wheelchair access, helpful facilities for disabled guests, and allergy free rooms for those who need a cleaner stay.

If you are dreaming of a warm and charming place to celebrate your big day, GamlaVærket gives you a setting filled with history and personality. The old building and its location on Langgata give the whole day a special feel, whether you plan something small or something bigger.

There are several event rooms in varied styles, so you can choose the setting that fits your plans. Gildesalen can hold up to 100 guests and works well for large celebrations. Ringovnen is smaller and cozy, with old brick walls and candlelight. Screens, projectors, microphones, and sound equipment are ready if you need them.

The team can also help with music, whether you want a DJ, live musicians, or just a good sound system. If your guests are coming from nearby towns, they can help arrange transport too. From planning to the final touches, the staff at GamlaVærket guides you through everything and makes sure your day feels memorable and stress-free.

Cultural and Outdoor Events

There is a nice mix of things to try while you stay here, from food tastings to small local outings. Wine lovers can enjoy a tasting of five wines or a sparkling version in VinVærket’s charming tasting room. The room is open Thursday to Saturday from 5:00 pm to midnight. Some nights also have special tasting events. Beer fans can join a session to try different styles and learn how the flavors come together.

Right on the pedestrian street, you can visit Potter Simonsen, a family pottery that has worked here for generations. They show you their craft and share stories from Sandnes. You can also join guided walks through the city if you want to see filming spots or hear old local stories. If you like fresh air, there are easy adventures nearby. Dalsnuten is a popular hike with wide views, and on warm days, you can cool off in the water on the way down.

Canoes are ready at the Lutsi Ims watercourse if you want a quiet trip on the water. Families often enjoy Vitenfabrikken, a hands-on science center just a short walk away, and Kongeparken is only a short drive and full of fun rides and chocolate making for kids.

If you want a quick escape, the hotel also offers ready-made getaway packages with easy itineraries. You can pick from a historic road trip along the Discovery Route or a scenic Lysefjord cruise with hotel stays included. Each option mixes nature, local culture, and relaxed comfort, giving you a simple way to plan a short break without any fuss.

During Christmas, the hotel feels warm and bright with candles, the tree, and the smell of traditional holiday food. It is a nice time to gather colleagues, friends, or family for something simple and cozy. Weekends come with a big Christmas buffet, and weekdays offer set menus or buffets for groups. You can also stop by for Christmas lunch if you want something lighter. Everything is meant to feel easy, welcoming, and festive, so you can just sit back and enjoy the season.

GamlaVærket is also a welcoming place for meetings and personal events. The team keeps things simple and well organized, with modern equipment ready for use. You can plan anniversaries, birthdays, meetin, worksho, or even a full weekend stay with dinner when the day is done. There are rooms in several sizes, from quiet boardrooms for twelve to a larger hall that can hold around eighty guests. Fresh-baked treats are set out during breaks, and the hotel can also arrange fun team-building activities, pottery visits, wine tastings, or historical city tours to add something special to your day.