Sundvolden Hotel

Though scant, records of Sundvolden Hotel's tradition of hospitality can be confirmed as far back as 1648. At the time, it was still a humble inn operated by Marte Kroksund, with an adjacent ferry service across Kroksundet. The next record of the inn was in 1788, and at the time it was owned by Gaute Sundvollen, from whom the village now gets its name.

Sundvollen’s importance grew with the opening of the Bergen Royal Road in 1805. Ole Blyberg, Sundvollen's owner, secured a royal license to run a guesthouse in 1811, which the family promptly opened. Sundvolden became a favored stop for royalty throughout the 19th century, including Norway's very own kings and queens, as well as the royalty of other European nations.

Industrial development during the dawn of the 20th century provided new opportunities for Sundvolden to grow. Tourism surged because of emerging transportation links like the Lierbanen boat service and overland bus routes. Likewise, Sundvolden also made expansions during this time, adding a new wing with a dining hall, and a detached building that became known as Societeten.

Ownership of Sundvolden Hotel shifted several times in the early 20th century until its acquisition by Martin Hansen in 1932. Together with his family, they ran the hotel up until the mid-1960s, when only Martin's daughter, Ruth Helgestad, was left to operate it. At that point, Arne Bergendahl Laeskogen stepped in, saving the hotel from being sold for an industrial development and instead began a large-scale restoration. Together with his wife Bjørg, they modernized the property and expanded with conference facilities in 1972, establishing Sundvolden's reputation as one of Norway’s leading conference hotels of the 1980s.

Their son Tord Moe Laeskogen and his wife Cecilie assumed leadership in 2000, continuing the family tradition and earning various distinctions over the next decades. These include the Norwegian Working Environment Award 2008, the Olavsrosa from the Norwegian Heritage Foundation, and the Nordic Swan Ecolabel.

Design and Architecture

For the most part, Sundvolden Hotel's aesthetics have since been modernized by Arne Laeskogen and Bjørg Moe during the 1970s and 1980s. As the hotel was already run-down by the time they acquired it, they had to update many of its aspects. Renovations continued into the 21st century, but Tord Moe and Cecilie Laeskogen did acknowledge the value and charm of historic features. The hotel has several historic suites that feature vintage-style decor and antique furniture. The on-site restaurant, Anno 1648, is also designed like a classic tavern, providing a glimpse into the hotel's past.

Constant upgrades and modernizations to the hotel also included accessibility features throughout the property, including wheelchair-friendly rooms and facilities.

Anno 1648

As the signature restaurant and main dining venue of Sundvolden Hotel, Anno 1648 strives to provide the best culinary experiences in Sundvollen. Recipes rooted in centuries-old traditions are given contemporary twists, ensuring their authenticity while bringing them to the 21st century. The dining experience is further complemented by the venue's historic aesthetics, meant to evoke an old-world ambiance.
Opening hours: 12 pm - 10 pm (or until 9 pm on Sundays)

Festive Dinner

For special seasons, such as the winter holidays, Anno 1648 also prepares an exciting Festive Dinner menu. Choose from three distinct sets, featuring dishes made of venison, classic recipes, and one focused on Christmas delights.

If you're looking for a place for your magical wedding, why not make it Sundvolden Hotel? Set the majestic Norwegian fjords as the enchanting backdrop of your special day. Say your I do's while surrounded by the beauty of nature and the love of your dear friends and family. Celebrate with a grandiose reception, filled with flavorful food and lively music. You'll have all that and more if you plan a wedding at Sundvolden. And if you're worried about the planning and logistics involved, you'll be assisted by a dedicated team who'll tailor a milestone day you won't ever forget.

Sundvolden Hotel has three main venues that can be prepared for your special day. The Guild House is the largest, set in a historic stone building and capable of accommodating 78 guests. Honefoss, a wooden feast hall slightly reminiscent of Medieval Norway, seats up to 48. Smallest of the venues is The Prince, suitable for an intimate gathering of up to 28 guests.

Cultural and Outdoor Experience

Sundvolden Hotel sits in one of the most beautiful spots in Norway, and also one of the most convenient. Just less than an hour's drive from Oslo, the hotel is very popular with tourists and locals alike, offering not just relaxing retreats but also all sorts of adventures and opportunities for cultural immersion.

The hotel has a wide selection of on-site facilities and amenities that you can take advantage of. Kids and grown-ups can enjoy playing outdoors in the park or indoors in the game room. There's also a dedicated play area for toddlers and babies, separate from the bigger kids' area. If your goal is to enjoy a quiet few hours, you can unwind and admire the art at Gallery Sundvolden, or book a spa day at Sundvolden Spa.

If venturing outdoors is more your thing, head on over to Mørkgonga Nature Reserve, or hike up to viewing points like The King's View. The hotel can also arrange sports activities such as golfing, wine tasting, and fjord cruises. As for cultural immersion, the concierge will be glad to suggest some sights that are nearby, including the Hardraade Viking Ship Association, or the Hadeland Glassworks.

Sundvolden Hotel is proud to count itself as among Norway's finest conference hotels - a reputation it has gained and kept since the 1980s. The hotel promises exquisite venues and things to do for gatherings large and small. Corporate functions and private celebrations can integrate activities like escape rooms, murder mysteries, and Viking games into their itinerary. Aside from private affairs and weddings, the hotel also hosts large events such as concerts and fairs, promising plenty of flexibility and experience when it comes to managing and running big gatherings.