Åndalsnes, Norway
Hotel Aak, Norway's oldest tourist hotel, offers a soulful retreat for mountain lovers in the dramatic Romsdalen Valley.
Hotel Aak stands at the gateway to Norway’s Romsdalen Valley, surrounded by dramatic peaks and rich in mountaineering history. Established in 1860, it is the oldest tourist hotel in Norway, offering a unique blend of rustic heritage and modern Nordic comfort. The hotel features 16 rooms, some in the original timber building and others in a sleek extension, each offering views of the surrounding peaks. Hotel Aak is a haven for mountain lovers, run by enthusiasts who foster a community spirit. Guests can join guided hikes, ski tours, and enjoy chef-prepared meals rooted in Norwegian wilderness traditions. The atmosphere is soulful and high-spirited, focusing on authentic experiences rather than glossy luxury. This is a place where stories are shared, and nature is celebrated.
Hotel Aak provides direct access to iconic trails like the Romsdalseggen Ridge and Vengetindane peaks. In winter, guests can embark on expert-guided ski tours across dramatic backcountry terrain. The Rauma River offers opportunities for fly fishing and paddle adventures, while summer invites road cyclists and mountain bikers to challenge themselves on winding climbs. The hotel's connection to Norway’s outdoor culture makes it a haven for physically active travelers in every season.
Explore additional experiences in the surrounding area.
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Area sceneryRoute length: 1.3km loopEstimated time: 17minLoop routeMjølvabotnen naturreservat is a protected area managed by Rauma kommune since June 27, 2003. The site is a nature reserve classified under protection class 1a, focusing on broadly forested areas.
Area sceneryRoute length: 2.6km loopEstimated time: 35minLoop routeGrisetstranda naturreservat is a recently established nature reserve from June 2023, protected under Norwegian law and managed locally. It has a protection class 1a designation to safeguard forested areas.
Route length: 3km loopEstimated time: 41minLoop routeHensøran naturreservat is a nature reserve and protected area operated by Rauma kommune since November 8, 2002. It holds a protection class 1a status to maintain its natural environment.
Route length: 3.3km loopEstimated time: 44minLoop routeUnjemslia naturreservat is a protected nature reserve established on June 27, 2003, operated by Rauma kommune. It is classified as protection class 1a with a focus on broadleaf forest conservation.
Route length: 3.3km loopEstimated time: 44minLoop routeLerheim naturreservat is a nature reserve established in December 2022 and managed by local authorities. It is classified protection class 1a, focusing on forest conservation.
Straight-line distance from hotel: 50 m directSeason: Autumn; SummerHotel Aak offers a guided electric bike tour that starts and ends at the hotel. The tour departs from the reception and lasts 3 to 4 hours.
Straight-line distance from hotel: 50 m directSeason: Spring - WinterHotel Aak can arrange guided ski touring with experienced local ski guides. The experience is planned around the group's skill and physical level, and groups can be up to six skiers per guide.
Straight-line distance from hotel: 50 m directHotel Aak offers an easy guided hike in Romsdalen with transport included. The package includes a guide, roundtrip transport from Hotel Aak, coffee, tea, and a homemade snack.
Straight-line distance from hotel: 50 m directHotel Aak offers a guided kayak experience on the Rauma River. The kayak is put in on Rauma next to the hotel, and guests can paddle both up and down the river.
Straight-line distance from hotel: 50 m directSeason: Dec-MayHotel Aak offers a three-night, two-and-a-half-day ski touring course with an IFMGA-certified guide and safety equipment included. The package is aimed at beginners to experienced skiers and includes full board at the hotel.
Dining at Hotel Aak reflects a warm, alpine sensibility with meals served in a cozy, lodge-style dining room. The set menu concept features daily rotating three- or four-course dinners, often including moose, trout, or root vegetable purée with wild herb oils. Communal dining fosters a friendly, home-like atmosphere, with a wine list favoring organic selections and Norwegian craft beverages. The focus is on seasonal ingredients and mountain traditions, creating a rustic yet elegant dining experience.
Hotel Aak offers a wellness experience tailored to mountain lovers, featuring a wood-fired sauna nestled between river and forest. Guests can enjoy cool-down sessions in the fresh air or by the riverbank. The focus is on restoring the body through simplicity, silence, and warmth, enhancing the mountain lodge atmosphere as a space to reflect and recharge.
Hotel Aak emphasizes eco-friendly practices inspired by DNT’s environmental guidelines. Guests can borrow high-quality gear like e-bikes and kayaks, promoting sustainable exploration of the stunning Romsdalen Valley. The hotel prioritizes the use of organic and local ingredients, with meals often featuring foraged or garden-grown produce.As a certified Miljøfyrtårn, Hotel Aak implements comprehensive waste management, including composting and the use of environmentally certified products. The hotel also supports community initiatives, offering practice placements for students and work training opportunities.
Hotel Aak offers 5 accommodation types.
Historic Double Room with Shared Bathroom
Experience the charm of history with wooden walls and serene views of the mountains. This room shares a bathroom with another room, making it ideal for families with a private hallway. Opt for forest view rooms for a quieter stay.
Superior Room with Private Bathroom
Enjoy spacious accommodations with a private bathroom. Choose between modern Scandinavian style with garden views or authentic wooden walls with mountain views. Extra mattresses can be added for additional guests.
Double Room with Private Bathroom and Forest View
Located in the newer part of the hotel, this room offers a modern Scandinavian style and tranquil forest views. Perfect for nature lovers, you might even spot a squirrel from your window.
Double Room with Private Bathroom and Mountain View
Relax and enjoy the stunning mountain views from this modern Scandinavian-style room. Located in the newer part of the hotel, it offers a peaceful retreat after a day of activities.
Experience the soulful atmosphere of Hotel Aak, where mountain lovers find a home. Join guided hikes, savor Norwegian meals, and relax in the wood-fired sauna. Visit the website to plan your stay.
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