The year is 1891. The aristocracy and upper classes of Europe are looking for new destinations of natural beauty to visit. The Hotel Union Øye on Hjørundfjord opens its doors ready for a demanding clientele. The hotel's guestbook reveals that they were very successful. Queen Wilhelmina of Holland, Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany, King Oscar II, Queen Maud and King Haakon VII are just some of the distinguished visitors who found their way to the hotel. Fast forward to 1989, and 100 years on, the hotel is restored to its magnificent splendour, just as it did originally when it opened in 1891.

Each room carries the name of one of its famous guests that has stayed here. Queen Maud and King Haakon VII, Keiser Wilhelm II, Queen Beatrice, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Karen Blixen to name but a few. It is a reflection of the status of the hotel and of the attractions of the area. Every guestroom is different, except for comfortable four-poster beds and modern bathrooms. You will not find telephones, TVs or radios in the rooms as they have been intentionally omitted. Everything you do at the Hotel Union Øye is not just a journey to magnificent scenery and an exciting destination but also a journey in time.

It is perhaps best described as a romantic "Fjord Palace" in Swiss style. It is idyllically situated amid beautiful, untouched natural scenery, with rich freshwater and fjord fishing close by. With service and facilities that match their Royal patronage - and stunning scenery, Hotel Union Øye defined luxury for an era of aristocratic celebrity. A visit to Hotel Union Øye is more than just a memorable experience, it is a journey back in time.

"A piece of Paradise" - quote from an English visitor in the 1890's - and still true today.

"Selected as one the world’s 12 most exciting and enchanting hotels" - 1996

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Steve Dobson

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Activities

Øye, with the fjord, the mountains and the scenic Norangs-valley, offers a variety of activities and touring ground. The hotel-staff will be pleased to make suggestions and help you with your planning. Boat-rental for fishing – your catch can be stored at the hotel until departure.

Some examples of activities the hotel can offer:

• Canoe rental
• Bike rental
• Guided mountain walks
• Fjord cruise to Ålesund and the bird cliff Runde
• Beach-barbecue / Shellfish-feast in "Valhall" Barbecue at the mountain farm
• Barbecue party 
• Werewolf-hunting in the late hours
• Gobelin picnic à la 1890 "al Fresco"
• Horse-carriage arranged on request
• Helicopter sightseeing

"The proudest view in Europe."

This quote is from a book by the famous British mountaineer William Cecil Slingsby. He was describing the view from "Slogen" - one of the impressive mountain peaks surrounding the Hotel Union Øye.

The tourist of today will find the same unspoiled natural environment. We can offer a wide variety of excursions, ranging from advanced climbing to relatively easy trekking. The hotel provides guests with maps, and for groups we can arrange walks with experienced mountain guides. The river flowing past the hotel offers salmon fishing, or you can try your luck with the trout in the mountain lakes. For those interested in fjord fishing, or perhaps just rowing, there are rental boats available. Alternatively you may rent a bike and experience the scenic and untouched Nordang valley which runs from the hotel to the famous Geirangerfjord.

Sitting at your ease on the hotel porch at the end of an active day, you will experience, body and soul, the refreshing atmosphere of the hotel and its surroundings.