Utne Hotel was constructed amid the intellectual and philosophical movement that dominated Europe in the 18th century.

Utne Hotel first opened its doors to guests in 1722, making it one of the most historic hotels in Norway. The hotel was established when Peder Larsson Børsem refused his pension following the end of the Great Nordic War. Børsem instead asked for a royal decree that allowed for him to establish a guesthouse in Utne. As soon as he was granted the license, Børsem quickly set about building his structure. The Utne Hotel had many different proprietors over the years, including Torbjørg Johannesdotter Utne. She rose to local fame as being the legendary "Mother Utne,” due to having spent 70 years managing the location.

Utne Hotel's first guests were outdoor enthusiasts with strong adventurous spirits. Soon enough though, travelers from all walks of life started to arrive in Hardanger. Among their number included manty famous Norwegians, such as Per Christian Asbjørnsen, Ole Bull, Adolph Tidemand, and Eilif Peterssen. History permeates Utne Hotel, but it merges gracefully with modern comfort. The hotel has been totally renovated, making it a mountain oasis for guests seeking respite from the rush of their daily lives.