Grand Hotel Skei, Fjærland

Grand Hotel Skei is a lakeside establishment that has welcomed guests since 1889. This historic hotel is located in Jølstravatnet, conveniently midway between the bustling cities of Bergen and Ålesund. Its prime location is within a short distance of some of the region's most spectacular and famous tourist attractions, such as Jostedalsbreen National Park and Astruptunet. The hotel is a large lodge overlooking the water with a parking lot in front and many homes and other buildings dotting the surrounding area. 

While the rooms vary, you can expect to find wood floors and neutral walls, with mountainous landscape art on the wall behind the bed. Some rooms have carpets that some guests might consider dated. You'll find a large desk in your room if you need to work during your stay. The highlight of the rooms is the large windows providing beautiful views of the lake and mountains. If you upgrade, you can receive a room with a balcony to enjoy the crisp mountain air. The no-frills bathrooms feature large white tiles and a shower or shower/tub combination. 

Begin your morning with a visit to the breakfast buffet before enjoying a morning workout in the fitness room or a swim in the indoor pool or a soak in the outdoor hot tub. The hotel also offers activities like badminton, table tennis, and bicycle rentals to keep you busy, and there's a series of brand-new floating saunas at the water's edge that feature picture windows overlooking the lake and mountains. Before dinner, check out one of the two on-site bars, perfect for unwinding after sightseeing. Then, head to the restaurant that serves traditional Norwegian cuisine.