Kviknes Hotel

Before Kviknes Hotel opened its doors as the historic hotel along the Sognefjord we know today, it was a humble guesthouse called Holmen Gjestgiveri. The guesthouse was built in 1752 and operated for well over a century before the Kvigne family acquired it in 1877 and rechristened it as the Kviknes Hotel.

Improvements in travel brought about by industrialization and modernization encouraged more Europeans to travel to the fjords, which then inspired the family to expand the property. They commissioned the famed painter and architect Franz Wilhelm Schiertz, who then designed the new wing and facade in the style of a Swiss chalet. The expansion was completed in 1890, but was soon followed by more buildings in 1894 and 1913.

The hotel remained in the family's hands through the 20th century and into the 21st century, and underwent modernizations and more expansions in the 1950s. Its venerable status creates a sense of legacy and tradition that also makes it part of Balestrand and Sognefjord. Currently, the hotel is led by Sigurd Kvikne, along with his siblings Marta and Kari.

When Kviknes Hotel still existed as the guesthouse Holmen Gjestgiveri, it was built in the style of a typical Norwegian hus. It wouldn't be redeveloped until its acquisition by the Kvigne family in the late 19th century. It was at this time that the hotel was transformed into a Swiss chalet by architect Franz Wilhelm Schiertz. The new style easily matched the setting of the hotel, with its gorgeous façade, gabled roofs, and wooden balconies creating a dramatic and picturesque figure set against the surrounding fjord and forests. Kviknes Hotel retained this iconic look centuries later, embracing its classic aesthetics as a representation of the family's dedication and tradition.

The classic atmosphere and design extend into the interior of the hotel. Within, common spaces and public areas are decorated with family treasures such as antiques and works of art from various time periods. Likewise, the suites and rooms also exude an old-world charm, contrasted by stylish vintage-modern fixtures and furniture.

Kviknes Hotel emphasizes its commitment to quality dining at its Dining Room and at Balholm Bar & Bistro. Their food philosophy revolves around using local ingredients provided by the verdant lands and bountiful Sognefjord. Each dish is meticulously prepared by the culinary team, while Hotel Director Sigurd Kvikne also prepares the perfect wines for pairing, chosen from the hotel's extensive wine list.

Main Dining Room

Admire the scenic splendor of the Sognefjord while enjoying your breakfast or dinner at the Main Dining Room. Breakfasts are prepared fresh each morning and served with fruits and other local produce. For dinner, indulge in delightful buffets and courses made with fine seasonal catches and pickings.

Opening hours: 6:45 am - 10 am (Breakfast); 7 pm to 9 pm (Dinner)

Balholm Bar & Bistro

Open seasonally from the beginning of April until the end of October, Balholm Bar & Bistro offers wonderful casual dining experiences with views of the fjord. Bite down on juicy burgers and sandwiches, and sip delectable signature mixes made at the bar.

Opening hours: 12 pm - 11 pm (Bar); 1 pm - 9 pm (Food service)

Turn Norway's King of the Fjords into your magical wedding backdrop when you celebrate your Happily Ever After at Kviknes Hotel. The hotel offers a variety of venues and packages that can be further customized for your event. Their spacious conference hall can be equipped with an audio-visual system, as well as decorated for whatever special occasion. Also expect top-quality food prepared by skilled chefs, and complemented by delicious wines chosen from the hotel's cellars. Aside from the event itself, the management can also prepare off-site activities for the couple and their closest guests as part of the celebration.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Balestrand may seem like a sleepy town on the banks of Sognefjord, but it's actually a gateway to a multitude of adventures. Kviknes Hotel will be very happy to arrange a wide variety of adventures for you and your loved ones, sure to create unforgettable memories.

Local experiences start right at the hotel, kicked off with a wine-tasting session at the hotel's cellar. Kviknes Hotel is said to have one of the most comprehensive wine lists in Sogn og Fjordane, so don't miss out on some unique vintages. Another tasting experience you shouldn't miss is a visit to Balestrand's ciderhuset. This is actually part of the Balestrand Cultural Walk experience, and will take you through several historic streets and buildings like St. Olaf's Church. The walk ends at a historic cider house that produces the town's signature Balholm ciders.

If you're a lover of the outdoors, Balestrand will be a paradise for you. You can hike or bike up at Balestrandsfjella during the summer, or go skiing down its slopes during the winter. The Sognefjord is also a fun place to go fishing, rafting, and swimming during the warmer months. Alternatively, you can book a fjord cruise and go sightseeing instead.