Clarion Hotel Oslo

Pros  

• Enjoy a sleek new hotel in a buzzing area that is a 10-minute walk from the Oslofjord, world-class cultural attractions, and the airport express train.
• Guests can dine onsite in the trendy seafood restaurant and bar on the lobby level, or explore many more options available on foot.
• Rooms have large windows and hardwood-style floors, while higher room types offer Nespresso machines, bathrobes, and/or terraces.

Cons

• There are self-check-in kiosks in the lobby, but there may be a wait to speak with a staff member in the lobby.

Authenticity

Newcomers are greeted with modern minimalism when they enter the revolving door. The spacious lobby features original artwork that rotates every nine months, including a Munch painting that underwent more than 200 hours of restoration. The hotel’s permanent art collection is an intentional reminder to guests of the cultural attractions in the ‘hood, like the enormous, futuristic-looking Munch Museum down the street. Guests can check in at the self-serve kiosk, or go the old-fashioned way and speak with the staff member behind the front desk, though there may be a wait depending on how busy it is. 

Location

This is a central location for travelers who want to be in an up-and-coming area of Oslo called Bjørvika, next to the Oslo Opera House and the new Munch Museum. You’re also within a short walking distance to the trendy Barcode area as well as Oslo Central Station with regular express trains to the airport. If waterfront views are your thing, the hotel is steps from the Oslofjord with various paths for walking or jogging. 

Rooms & Bathrooms

The Clarion Hotel Oslo offers six room types with hardwood-style floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and blackout shades. Contemporary furnishings include bedside outlets for charging devices, a working desk, and closets with an iron and ironing board (the hotel does get business travelers). Bathrooms have walk-in showers and Rituals bath products in eco-friendly pumps. Superior rooms and above have Nespresso machines and bathrobes, and some deluxe rooms have balconies or terraces (request upon check-in). Families can consider the suite option that has two bedrooms, or request an extra bed or crib for a fee. 

Other Highlights

The stylish Kitchen & Table Fishery restaurant is adjacent to the front desk with a seasonal terrace, and guests can dine on seafood-focused dishes created by Swedish chef Marcus Samuelsson. In addition to the restaurant, cocktails are served at the bar with space for lounging or catching up on e-mails. Other perks include a free breakfast buffet with vegan options and a 24-hour fitness center with modern equipment and windows for natural light. Guests can also walk or jog along various waterfront paths close to the hotel.

Sustainability

The Clarion Hotel Oslo is part of the Nordic Choice Hotels and Resorts group, which operates an extensive sustainability program called WeCare. There are several initiatives in place at each property that aim to reduce its environmental impact. This hotel does not use unnecessary plastic products and encourages guests to drink Norwegian tap water—a point of pride for locals. The extensive program also includes ways to reduce food waste. A plan is also in the works to power as many hotels as possible with renewable energy.