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1949
Flatheim
Viksdalen, Norway
Gaularfjellsvegen 2275, Viksdalen, Norway, 6978
Original Property Opened in 1949
Historic Hotels Worldwide member since 2025
Located in the heart of Western Norway sits the picturesque hotel, Flatheim. This unique hotel is situated along the Norwegian National Scenic Route and contains rich history and culture. Flatheim offers a unique blend of natural beauty with rivers, lakes, and trails. Guests to the hotel will experience a stay like none other with a sense of community and the upmost Norwegian hospitality offered.
Discover
- Discover the wonderful blend of Norwegian vernacular motifs. The construction themes are referred to as “byggeskikk,” and this concept drew its inspiration from generational construction techniques that go back centuries. Most structures in Norway were created with natural materials such as logs, or other resources available in the wilderness. Due to this, architectural designs such as open-hearth fireplaces and stone chimneys became prevalent in this aesthetic and can be seen throughout Flatheim.
- Learn more about the fascinating history of Flatheim, situated along the National Scenic Route that overlooks the Gaularfjellet, mountain area in Vestland. The story of this quaint retreat started when Selma and Jens Vallestad established a bus stop (and an accompanying gas station) on the site in 1949. The bus stop then became an inn with the hope it would appeal to tourists. Gaining popularity, Selma and Jens expanded into a hotel in the 1900s with it now being under the stewardship of their granddaughter, Heidi Vallestad.
- Discover the lush farmland that Flatheim sits upon. This unique hotel sits 430 meters above sea level and consists of charming guesthouses that each tell their own story.
Explore
- Explore the beautiful natural surroundings at Flatheim. The hotel is located along the National Scenic Route and makes it easy for visitors to take advantage of outdoor activities. Guests can take bike rides along the Gaularfjellvegen mountain road and admire the many lakes and waterfalls alongside it.
- Take a trip to Balestrand, a charming little art village near Flatheim. Many notable artists have left their impact and creative stride in the little village. It is home to the Norwegian Tourism Museums that houses art exhibitions paying tribute to the talented artists that have passed through the village. In addition, there are cozy coffee shops and cafes to try in Balestrand.
- Walk along the waterfall trail from Gaularfjellet to Viksdalen. It is a scenic walk with 14 waterfalls and 7 lakes along the path. Guests can begin their hike at Flatheim and choose to walk a part or the whole walk. The hotel will prepare a homemade lunchbox and picnic blanket for guests to enjoy on the trail.
Experience
- Experience the view of a lifetime from Gaularfjellet mountain range, along the National Tourist Route. It is one of the greatest viewpoints in Norway and offers a breathtaking view of lush green landscape and mountains.
- Go for a refreshing swim in the river at Flatheim. A dip in the cool river can be a productive start to the day or guests can enjoy a sunset swim to wind down. Flatheim will prepare a bathing package that consists of a bath towel, bathrobe, homemade socks, and a hot thermos of something warm to drink for guests who are interested in this experience. There is also a hot-tub and sauna by the riverside.
- Hike alongside the bird trail in Fosseheiman. Spot rare birds that are native to the Norwegian lands and learn about the varied species, while viewing the birds nesting in the specialty-built birdhouses. Guests can encounter other animals in the area and see a beautiful waterfall close by.
- Participate in seasonal events at Flatheim. From June to August, the farm hosts a summer café that provides all kinds of rustic Norwegian cuisine. Flatheim even hosts a charming rustic shop offering interior decor items, leather products, books, and more.
Taste
- Taste a three-course dinner every evening at Flatheim. Meals at Flatheim are made using only the freshest ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. Local trout is harvested from the river nearby and meat from grass-fed cows are supplied from close by farms. Bread is made fresh every day using the historic way of baking bread in a wood-fired stone oven.
- Indulge in authentic local specialties at Flatheim during breakfast. Guests will find Gammalost which is a local cheese produced in Vik I Sogn, and Natronkaker, freshly baked soda crackers. To complement this dish, there is homemade fresh marmalade made at Flatheim with local berries and apples.
- Sip on fresh cider at The Cider House in Balestrand. Visitors can taste a variety of local fruit drinks that are pressed and bottled there in the town. There are many flavors to choose depending on what is in season. Cider and wines at Flatheim also come from The Cider House and farms in Balestrand.
FEATURED ACCOMMODATIONS
Featured Offer
Best Available Rate
Book the Best Available Rate at this property on HistoricHotelsWorldwide.com and receive a complimentary one-year family membership (a $30 value) to the National Trust for Historic Preservation in the United States, a member of the International National Trusts Organisation.
