Hotel Ullensvang

Hotel Ullensvang’s story began in 1846, when a determined and enterprising 14-year-old named Hans Utne rowed across the fjord from Utne and established a ferry station with a simple boathouse. This humble landing expanded into a snug and cozy two-bed abode for travelers, and Hans unknowingly laid the foundation for what would become one of Norway’s most iconic hotels, run by his own descendants.

By 1919, the original buildings had deteriorated, but Bjarne and Brita Utne saw opportunities and revitalized the property. They first separated the hotel from the family's other business interests, then promptly began an extensive renovation. The result was a sizable hotel with 50 beds, transforming the rustic stopover into a proper hospitality establishment ready to welcome a growing wave of travelers to Hardanger.

While it wasn't commandeered during the Second World War, Ullensvang became a retirement home for residents of Bergen. After the war, Ellen Harris Utne took charge of the hotel. She arrived with formal hotel management training and instituted many positive changes, such as substantial renovations in 1962. Alongside her husband Hans, they skillfully balanced modernizing the property while retaining its heritage.

Edmund Harris Utne and his wife Ina Torill continued the hotel's expansion when they took over in 1969. By this time, Ullensvang had transformed into a significantly larger resort, yet somehow retained its historic atmosphere. In 1996, the hotel became a cultural icon by becoming the birthplace of the Hardanger Music Festival. The event was founded by Stig Nilsson of the Oslo Philharmonic, which immediately found a home amidst the captivating fjord landscape and has since become part of the region's annual traditions.

By 2005, the hotel was being managed by its fifth-generation owners, Hans Edmund Utne and his Swiss wife Barbara. They celebrated the festival’s 10th anniversary with a special opening led by Queen Sonja of Norway, and attended by several notable dignitaries.

Yet after 170 years of family ownership, the hotel was finally sold to H.I.G. Capital in 2021. A few years later, in 2024, operations were handed over to the Norwegian hotel group Heimr. Under its current owners, guests will find a luxurious and well-tended establishment that continues to respect its historic legacy and the incredible environment that surrounds it.

Despite modernizations over the past 170 years, Hotel Ullensvang is one historic hotel that can boast about its blend of heritage and contemporary comforts set amidst the Hardangerfjord. The large windows, spacious balconies, and fjord-facing common areas ensure that the dramatic views of mountains, water, and orchards remain integral to the guest experience. The grounds themselves, which include the gardens, orchards, and private fjord-side beach, also give the hotel an exclusive resort atmosphere.

While the earliest version of the hotel began as a small boathouse in 1846, its current incarnation is an opulent, multi-wing resort. Interiors balance traditional Norwegian warmth with modern functionality, represented by clear views of the surroundings, and color schemes painted in soft color palettes. Many rooms include balconies or large windows that frame the fjord or the mountainside, presenting majestic vistas to guests wherever they are.

One of the hotel's crowning modern features is the Ullensvang Fjordbad, an extravagant spa and bathing complex facing out to the fjord. It boasts an expansive heated swimming channel that flows from the interior pool out into an open-air infinity-style section. With its enormous glass panels, guests can also enjoy panoramic vists from the saunas, hot tubs, and other facilities.

Main Restaurant

At the hotel’s main restaurant, look forward to hearty buffet breakfasts and refined dinners. Morning spreads are served with plenty of options, ranging from warm to cold dishes, freshly baked bread, and fruits and vegetables. Evening dinners come in either a la carte or buffet form, depending on the day of the week.
Breakfast: Monday to Saturday: 7 am - 10 am; Sunday: 7 am - 10:30 am
A la Carte Dinner: Sunday to Thursday: 6 pm - 9:30 pm
Buffet Dinner: Friday & Saturday: 6 pm - 9:30 pm

Bar

Unwind in a lovely little corner of the hotel after a day filled with socializing or adventures. Try their signature cocktails or mocktails, or relax with a soothing nonalcoholic beverage.
Opening hours: Friday & Saturday: 9 pm - Late

Fjord Bar

At Hotel Ullensvang's new bar & lounge, you can relax, sip your favorite drinks, and admire the beautiful fjord landscape. Grab a flavorful lunch, or perk yourself up with a delectable tipple. During warmer months, guests can also dine out in the garden, weather permitting.
Dining: 12 pm - 10 pm
Drinks: 12 pm - Late

While most fairytale weddings use magnificent castles as their backdrop, some couples prefer to be surrounded by the enchanting beauty of Mother Nature. Hotel Ullensvang offers the latter, with its grand hotel grounds set amidst the Norwegian fjords, as well as lush forests and orchards. Nearby historic churches can accommodate traditional ceremonies, while the hotel grounds or partner venues can be prepared for indoor and outdoor vow-taking. Wedding packages include planners and support staff who will assist you in preparing your special day, down to every detail, such as the menu and theme.

Here are some of the venues the hotel can prepare:

Gildestova

A banquet hall with a Viking Age theme, featuring a roaring fireplace and a long feast table.
Capacity: 40 guests

Munkens Trøyst

A charming wine cellar, perfect for intimate gatherings.
Capacity: 16 guests

Komponisten & Meteorologen

The chambre séparée of the hotel, which can be booked individually or combined to create a grand venue.
Capacity: 100 guests

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

More than just a hotel, Hotel Ullensvang is also a luxury resort and retreat where you can embrace the wondrous majesty of Hardangerfjord. The hotel features numerous amenities for both relaxation and activities, including its signature Ullensvang Fjordbad. The spectacular spa complex features a continuous swimming area with indoor and outdoor sections, as well as hot tubs, a sauna, and bubble benches. Another way to keep active is by hitting the on-site gym, or using the various sports facilities like the climbing wall or the bowling alley.

Outdoor adventurers also come to Ullensvang to be one with nature. Families and friends can explore the fjords with kayaks or book a cruise boat. Hikers and mountain climbers can challenge the different crags of Hardanger, while those who prefer a more leisurely pace can rent bikes and enjoy a picnic atop one of the many viewing points.

Also, take the chance to mingle with the local communities. As a region known for its orchards, there are plenty of shops that promote local products like ciders, and farms that are open for tours. Several museums are also close by, such as the Hardanger Folk Museum, and the Norwegian Museum of Hydropower and Industry.

Hotel Ullensvang warmly welcomes guests to partake in seasonal celebrations. Christmas, for example, is a time for festive merrymaking, and the hotel organizes jolly parties complete with special dinners, live bands, and many surprises.

If you're looking to host your own event at Ullensvang, you may also inquire about their packages and venues. They have dedicated teams prepared to handle private events and corporate conferences, along with well-equipped venues that can be further configured for the occasion.

Here are a few of their venues offered:

Ullensvangsalen

The largest hall of the hotel, boasting a tall ceiling and sweeping vistas of the fjord. It comes equipped with a projector and a sound system for presentations.
Capacity: 300 guests

Opedal & Lofthus

Two large event halls with large, bright windows, parquet floors, and audio-visual systems.
Capacity: 100 guests each

Hardangerhallen

A massive venue also used for conventions and concerts, including the Hardanger Music Festival.
Capacity: 500 guests