When I recently returned to Oslo, I was greeted by the familiar cultural and historic sights, from the prominent royal palace to the modern and distinct Scandinavian architectural facades that are reflections of Nordic-inspired tradition and lifestyle.
There’s always so much more to this vibrant capital city. Just a short ride from the bustling city center, I found an urban skyline transformed into a wonderful recreational landscape, perfect for anyone who shares my passion for sports and outdoor activities. If I want to immerse myself in nature, Holmenkollen is my go-to retreat, offering stunning views overlooking Oslo and its picturesque fjords.
Rising 500 meters above sea level, Holmenkollen is renowned for its impressive giant Olympic ski jump and international sports competitions.
The Heights of Holmenkollen
As I ventured higher, I discovered areas above Oslo that provide a special view of the city. At the summit, the Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel stands 350 meters above sea level, offering impressive views of both Oslo and the nearby Nordmarka forest.
This historic landmark, dating back to 1894, once served as a sanatorium before transforming into a 4-star hotel. After several renovations, the Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel has preserved its unique character with the latest updates further enhancing its appeal.
One of the hotel’s most fascinating features is its Nordic architecture adorned with Viking-inspired dragon gargoyles that pay homage to the National Romanticism period. Inside, I was captivated by a beautiful blend of modern and rustic design.
The historic Drage Building reflects Norse mythology throughout, showcasing recurring ancient motifs and stories. Each art piece draws upon mythical creatures believed to safeguard against life’s unpredictabilities.
The Historic Five Living Rooms
I was also drawn to the five living rooms in the Drage building, each radiating a nostalgic and rural charm. Each room displays a variety of historic artifacts, including a stunning late 19th century soapstone fireplace. These living rooms capture the essence of Norway’s history during the reign of King Oscar the II.
Beautiful paintings of bucolic Norwegian landscapes adorn the walls, encapsulating the natural beauty of the countryside. A standout piece is Gerhard Munthe’s landscape painting from Hallingdal. Notable artwork and decorative arts grace the spacious communal areas, creating a delightful ambiance for dining while enjoying the stunning views of Oslo.
Dining Pleasures
The dining experience was a highlight, with various areas offering delicious menu selections. In addition to a complimentary breakfast buffet, I had the choice of à la carte dining and buffet options. The consistent quality of the dishes made every meal a pleasure, with freshly cooked fish and meat entrees that were simply delightful.
For enhanced dining experiences, the hotel’s wine cellars provide a very wide selection of premium wines and spacious rooms for large gatherings.
Other Amenities
A major highlight of the hotel is the spacious gym, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment. Within the hotel, the Artesia Spa offers a relaxing retreat, featuring a heated pool and treatment rooms for massages and facials.
The understated décor embodies the essence of Scandinavian style, creating a serene ambiance. This stylish design extends to the rooms and suites, where comfort is paramount. The master suites are particularly spacious and furnished with high quality crafted fixtures.
The hotel is a wonderful gathering place for families and friends. I saw cross-country skiers meeting in the foyer who had just finished skiing trails near the surrounding forest and open terrain, gathered for lunch. Cross-country skiing may last to early May this year.
On another occasion during my stay, a wedding party posed for pictures in the lobby, and a guest in traditional Norwegian costume radiated joy as she entered the hotel with her spouse.
As a premier destination, the hotel offers such a wide variety of amenities, which a savvy, seasoned traveler would expect. Its prime location also makes it easy to get to the center of Oslo and the impressive Holmenkollen ski jump, sports museum, and Oslo Winter Park.
Access and Convenience
The stadium, ski jump, and museum are famous sites, commemorating past World Cups and international ski jumping events. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Holmenkollen to engage in these sports and soak up the special atmosphere in this iconic Olympic site.
I enjoyed trekking through the enchanting tall pine forests, where the natural surroundings provided a peaceful escape in which to connect with nature.
Holmenkollen offers attractive ways to spend quality time outdoors during a visit to Oslo. With the Olympic complex and downtown Oslo within easy reach, the Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel is the perfect destination that seamlessly blends into the peaceful surrounding terrain, creating an unforgettable experience.
Sebastian Price is passionate about exploring the world and sharing his experiences with others. When not embarking on new travel horizons, he has been a school teacher and educator in New York City for many years. Sebastian believes that travel is not just a way to see the world but also a way to connect with others and broaden our perspectives. His extensive travels have taken him to all corners of the globe, and he is always looking for new, uncharted waters.
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