Glacier railway lodge
Guests step straight off the mountain train platform into an outpost overlooking the Hardangerjøkulen glacier.
“Inside, the decor includes well-used wicker furniture, historic black-and-white photos of people on wooden skis, and a winter-white taxidermied reindeer.”
What it’s good at
Notable
A 1909 railway lodge that trained polar expeditions beneath the Hardangerjøkulen glacier.
Notable
High-plateau hospitality reached only by train, set beside Norway's highest railway station.
What they say
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and AFAR.
Though it’s been renovated and modernized over the years, the 41-room hotel maintains its historic charm.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
No roads reach Finse. Hiking trails lead straight across the treeless plateau toward the foot of the glacier.
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The rooms
Rooftop suites look out toward Mount Lille Finsenut through high gables, with bathtubs set right against the glass.
The sauna
A panoramic sauna looks out over Lake Finsevatnet, where guests take cold plunges straight off the jetty.
At the table
The dining room looks across the snowy plateau, serving house-baked bread and three-course dinners beneath William Morris wallpaper.
How it began
The lodge began as shelter for railway workers in 1906, before polar explorer Ernest Shackleton used the plateau for expedition training.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.