The Radisson Blu in Beitostølen is a popular destination for skiing tourists in the winter. Here’s what the hotel is like in the summer.
On our recent summer road trip around the mountains and fjords of Norway, we chose Beitostølen as the first stop. We stayed two nights in the Radisson Blu Mountain Resort in Beitøstolen.
I know the small mountain village is a popular ski resort and therefore a popular winter destination, especially among Norwegians. But I had no idea what it would be like in the summer. Turns out it was pretty busy with keen hikers!
Quick review of the Radisson Blu Mountain Resort Beitostølen
- Perfect location for the ski lift (for skiing or hiking)
- Close to Jotunheimen and the famous Besseggen hike
- Generous breakfast buffet
- Find rates and availability here
Location of the hotel
First things first, the hotel is super easy to find. It’s right on the main road through Beitostølen, and immediately opposite one of the main ski lifts. It takes just minutes to travel from your guest room to the top of the ski lift.
Driving to Beitostølen gives you the opportunity to drive the Valdresflye scenic route. There’s plenty of parking and if you’re arriving by bus, that drops you off just a few minutes walk away.
Why stay in Beitostølen? Well in the winter, I assume you’ll be hitting the slopes! But in the summer, the area is a top hiking destination. There’s plenty of trails within walking distance of the hotel, but even more in the nearby Jotunheimen National Park including Besseggen, one of Norway’s most famous trails.
Lobby area
Check-in was swift and an error in my booking (I’d booked for one instead of two!) quickly resolved.
The lobby is spacious and I can imagine a very cosy experience during the cold winter.
Historic photos in the stairwell and other decor such as this fella (above) give the hotel a local touch you don’t always see from a national chain.
Inside the hotel room
The room was a little dated but spacious enough for two people, with enough power outlets. Unlike some Radisson hotels which have an endless choice of rooms at different levels of quality, all the double rooms here are more or less the same.
Two lounge chairs, a small table, a desk and chair, small television and a kettle (water boiler) were all included, together with some tea and instant coffee. The TV was not as modern as in most other Radisson hotels but worked fine for the 15 minutes we used it.
The en-suite bathroom was small but had a very good shower. I’d say the best thing about the room was the view across to the mountains. The room was cleaned but the maid came very late in the day, at which time we’d already returned from a hike.
Dining options at the hotel
A breakfast buffet was available in the large restaurant. Grab a window seat if you can, or sit outside on the terrace if the weather is nice.
The buffet included several hot options, the usual cold cuts and plenty of fresh bread. Given the times we’re living in, there was plenty of hand sanitiser around and the bread had been pre-sliced.
On the flip side of these measures, the staff were attentive. Too attentive. The plates and cups were whisked away so fast you felt guilty for lingering over breakfast, which I always like to do when I’m travelling.
The restaurant is also open in the evenings for a buffet dinner, except on Sundays. We didn’t partake in this, but I’ve heard from several people that although it’s on the pricey side, the selection and quality are very good.
There are other dining options in the village. When we visited in mid-July most places were busy so I do recommend booking ahead for dinner to avoid disappointment.
Read reviews, check rates and availability for this hotel on Booking.com. You can also search for other accommodation in Beitostølen. Have a great trip!
