Many camping and caravan sites in Norway are graded from one to five stars to give you an idea of amenities, and price. Most sites are well equipped with lots clearly marked for tents and caravans. Often situated with beautiful views, the best sites will offer a minimarket, a laundry, a TV room, a children’s play area and an indoor swimming pool.
Hotels
Hotels range from Contemporary Designer all-glass affairs in the city, to quaint country houses converted into boutique hotels. Hotels are also offered on a theme, such as the Ice Hotel, which is carved out of ice, complete with ice beds, ice sculptures and an ice bar. Spa hotels offer a range of pampering treatments.
Generally hotel prices in Norway are cheaper than other European countries. Cheaper rates are offered at weekends. There are several chains of hotels including Choice, Rica Hotels, Thon Hotels, Radisson and Best Western.
Bed and Breakfast
This low cost option for a comfortable room and a hearty breakfast is the best way to meet the locals! Advertised as a ‘pension’ or ‘husrom’ you can be sure of excellent accommodation in great locations.
Farms also offer rooms, including family rooms. The added pleasures of helping with the farm routine and assisting with the animals is a great thrill and a unique opportunity for children of all ages.
Cottages and Cabins
Renting a cottage or cabin overlooking a fjord captures what Norway is all about. Rentals are usually for a week or longer, but offer plenty of space, self-catering facilities and they often come complete with a small boat and fishing tackle. Cottages come in all sizes and prices but generally work out cheaper than comparable hotels.
Hostels
Hostels have come a long way in the last ten years and now offer private rooms as well as dormitory accommodation. Internet services, nighttime security, kitchen facilities and bedding are usually included in the low prices. Some hostels now cater to upmarket ‘Flashpackers’ and offer a cooked breakfast and some guided tours.
Expect to pay upwards of 100 kroner (US$15) for a dormitory bunk and 300 kroner (US$45) for a double room. The two main hostel chains in Norway are Hostelling International and VIP Backpackers Resorts International.
