The hype
Guests are blown away by the views and the breakfast buffet, but many are annoyed by the nickel-and-diming for parking and pool access.
Scandic Holmenkollen Park
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a fairytale Norwegian lodge experience with epic city views and don't mind a 30-minute commute to downtown.
Why People Love It
- Breathtaking panoramic views of Oslo and the fjord from the top of the hill
- The historic 'Dragon Style' architecture feels like stepping into a movie set
- Direct access to Nordmarka forest hiking and the famous Holmenkollen ski jump
Quick Take: A stunning historic landmark that charges you extra for the pool and makes you work for your dinner if you miss the bistro hours.
Reviewed by @dreamtravelvoyages: I stayed in the Tower Suite and it was unforgettable. The glass floor in the loft gave me butterflies, and sipping coffee on the balcony while overlooking all of Oslo was pure magic. Definitely the most unique room I've booked in Norway.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Standard' rooms are often described as surprisingly small (16 sqm) for a hotel this grand, feeling a bit cramped for two people with luggage.
- You are here for skiing, hiking, or the Korketrekkeren toboggan run
- You love a massive, high-quality breakfast buffet (it's a standout)
- You want fresh air and silence at night away from city sirens
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable, though recent reviews mention occasional missed dust or delayed service.
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly spotless, but a few specific complaints about mildew in shower grout in older rooms.
- Maintenance: The historic parts are well-kept but show age; modern wings are crisp.
- Linens & towels: Standard high-quality Scandinavian hotel linens; duvets are fluffy.
- Odors & scents: Fresh forest air smell in common areas; no lingering smoke smells reported.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Tourists/hikers gathering at the viewpoint outside front rooms
- Creaky floors in the historic 'Dragon Building' wing
Before you book
Good to know
- The metro (T-bane) stop is 'Holmenkollen', but it's an uphill walk to the hotel.
- Dinner options are limited; the main restaurant is expensive and the bistro menu is short.
- Kids only have pool access from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
What to pack
- Good grip shoes/boots (the path to the metro is steep and slippery in winter)
- Swimsuit (if you're willing to pay the spa fee)
- Reflective gear if walking to the station at night (it gets very dark)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Superior Room with View (worth the upgrade over Standard for the size alone)
- Junior Suite in the new wing for modern soundproofing plus the view
Rooms to avoid
- Standard Double rooms facing the parking lot (zero view, noise from cars)
- Rooms directly above the event spaces if a wedding is scheduled (ask at check-in)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a room in the newer wing facing the fjord for the best view, or a top-floor room in the historic building if available. Please avoid low-floor rooms facing the parking area.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool free for guests?
No. It costs approx. 195 NOK (Mon-Fri) to 250 NOK (Sat-Sun) per person per visit.
How far is it from Oslo city center?
About 8km, which translates to a 30-minute ride on Metro Line 1 plus a 10-minute walk.
Is there parking?
Yes, but it's expensive. Expect to pay around 210 NOK ($20) per day.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, for a fee of 200 NOK per stay. Dog-friendly rooms are available.
Is breakfast included?
Usually yes, and it is widely considered one of the best hotel breakfasts in Oslo.
Can I see the Northern Lights from here?
Rarely. While it's darker than the city, Oslo is too far south for consistent aurora viewing, though it happens occasionally during strong solar storms.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Walk 15 minutes uphill to 'Frognerseteren' for their famous apple cake and even better views than the hotel.
- ✨
Buy a 24-hour Ruter transport ticket; it covers the metro and is much cheaper than single fares.
- ✨
If the hotel restaurant is full/expensive, the Holmenkollen Restaurant nearby offers another high-end option, but booking is essential.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Standard' rooms are shockingly small—barely enough room to open a large suitcase.
💡You have to pay for the pool even if you just want to swim laps, not 'spa'.
💡The walk from the metro station is steep; dragging a roller bag up it in snow is a workout.
💡The 'Waffle Concept' in the bistro is actually a legit lunch option—savory waffles with toppings like cheddar and salsa.
💡The historic 'Dragon Building' rooms have tons of character but zero soundproofing compared to the modern wings.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Scandic Holmenkollen Park is located and what's nearby.