Fretheim Hotel

The hotel offers a memorable stay, distinguished by its prime location directly adjacent to the Flåm Railway station and fjord cruise pier, making it an ideal base for exploring the stunning Norwegian landscape. Its historical charm blends seamlessly with modern comforts, appealing to a wide range of travelers. Sightseers and couples particularly appreciate the breathtaking fjord views and convenient access to local attractions, while families find the comfortable accommodations and varied breakfast options suitable for their needs. Guests consistently praise the hotel's cleanliness, the quality of its breakfast, and the generally helpful staff. To enhance your experience, consider requesting a room with a fjord view, and be mindful of the strict check-in times to plan your arrival accordingly.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities designed for guest comfort and convenience. Guests frequently commend the inviting seating areas and lounges throughout the property, offering cozy spaces to relax, often with stunning views of the fjord. Complimentary coffee is available in the lobby, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. While the hotel features an elevator, some guests have noted it can be slow or, in some instances, out of service for certain floors, requiring luggage to be carried. A significant convenience highlighted by many is the availability of complimentary laundry facilities, including a washer and dryer, with washing powder provided. Some reviews also mention a unique rooftop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, though opinions on comfort and amenities vary. Many describe the beds as comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, while some find them too soft or note issues with sofa beds. The bathrooms are often praised for features like heated bathroom floors and good water pressure, though some are described as dated or having inconvenient shower-over-bath setups. A common point of feedback is the lack of certain in-room amenities, such as mini-fridges, televisions, phones, tissues, or sufficient towels. Noise can be an issue for some, with reports of poor sound insulation leading to disturbances from hallway noise or adjacent rooms.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience receives high praise, particularly for its breakfast buffet. Guests consistently describe the breakfast buffet as excellent, offering a wide variety of delicious options, including local produce, hot and cold dishes, and fresh items, often enjoyed with scenic views. This extensive spread is frequently highlighted as a standout feature of the stay. Dinner is typically served as a buffet, which, while offering a good selection, some guests find to be overpriced for the quality, occasionally noting that hot food can be lukewarm. A few guests express a preference for à la carte options beyond the buffet. The hotel also features a pleasant bar area.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, placing guests within a very short walk of the Flåm Railway station and the fjord cruise pier. This proximity makes it exceptionally convenient for travelers arriving by train or planning fjord excursions. Many rooms boast stunning views of the fjord and surrounding mountains, enhancing the overall experience. The hotel's position also provides easy access to other village attractions, local eateries, and hiking trails. While parking is available on-site, guests should be aware that it typically incurs an additional fee, and some have found the payment process to be less straightforward than expected.

Staff & Service
The majority of guests commend the staff for their friendly, helpful, and attentive service. Many reviews highlight the staff's willingness to assist with inquiries, provide local information, and accommodate requests, contributing to a positive and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel offers convenient luggage storage for guests arriving before check-in or departing after check-out, which is greatly appreciated. However, some guests have reported mixed experiences, particularly regarding the strict check-in process at 4 PM, with rooms often not being available earlier. Despite occasional minor issues, the overall sentiment is that the staff strives to provide good service.

Additional Information
The hotel is recognized for its distinctive historical character, with some guests specifically recommending rooms in the older sections for a more authentic experience. A frequently mentioned point of note is the hotel's strict check-in time of 4 PM and check-out time of 11 AM, which guests should plan around. The presence of large cruise ships in the harbor can occasionally impact views or the village atmosphere. The hotel offers unique accommodations like the Tower Suite, providing a special experience. It is also important for guests to be aware of the hotel's no-refund policy for cancellations, which has been a source of frustration for some due to unforeseen travel disruptions.