A Boutique Fjord Retreat in the Heart of Norway
Bestebakken Hotel


Perched above the serene Lake Hafslo in Luster, BesteBakken is a boutique hotel that seamlessly blends traditional Norwegian charm with modern comforts. Originally a mountain farm, this family-run retreat offers guests an intimate experience characterized by personalized service, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views of the Sognefjord region.
Each of the 15 uniquely decorated rooms reflects a harmonious balance between rustic elegance and contemporary design, ensuring a restful stay. Guests can indulge in the outdoor hot tub, savour meals crafted from the hotel’s own organic garden, and even interact with the resident alpacas, adding a touch of whimsy to this idyllic setting.
Why we love the Bestebakken Hotel:
- Authentic Norwegian Experience: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Norway, with opportunities to explore nearby attractions like the Urnes Stave Church and the Jostedal Glacier.
- Culinary Delights: Enjoy communal dining experiences featuring multi-course meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, fostering a sense of community among guests.
Norway, Your Way
- Location: Mobakken 11, 6869 Hafslo, Norway
- Rooms: 15 individually styled rooms with en-suite bathrooms
- Dining: On-site restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with ingredients from the hotel’s garden and local suppliers
- Guided fjord cruises or train trips to Flåm
- Art and music walks through Bergen’s creative quarters
- Nordic tapas tastings and historic food tours
- Funicular rides at dusk or fjord kayaking by day
Nearby Attractions:
-
- Urnes Stave Church (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Jostedal Glacier
- Sogn Ski Center
- Solvorn Fotogalleri
- Urnes Stave Church (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Itinerary Inspiration in Fjord Norway
We can personalise your stay and craft the perfect itinerary for you. Here are some examples of how we combine this accommodation with local experiences and give you a taste of the best.
A Michelin Keys Journey Through Norway’s Fjords Mountains and Culture
A luxurious Michelin Key journey through Norway’s fjords mountains and culture featuring private experiences gourmet dining and elegant hotels.The Arctic Hideaway
Secluded island cabins, sauna, kayaking, wildlife safaris and Northern Lights—discover The Arctic Hideaway for an intimate fjord escape.Festive Fjord Adventure in Norway
With boutique accommodation, this holiday offers a blend of festive charm, winter adventure and tranquil fjord-side luxury in Norway.Luxury Glacier Escape in Alta Norway
Huskies, Arctic dining, forest sauna and a remote fjord retreat combine on this luxury journey through Northern Norway.Luxury Ålesund and Fjord Hideaway
A luxurious journey through Oslo and the fjords with exclusive activities, iconic landscapes and premium boutique stays in Norway’s most scenic region...Drive the Fjords in Norway
Highlights include a private boat cruise to Flatflesa Lighthouse and panoramic drives through the Sunnmøre Alps and a helicopter transfer.A Nordic Winter Escape Through Sweden and Norway
A winter journey through Stockholm and Norway’s fjords with ski touring wellness dining and unforgettable alpine scenery.A Nordic Christmas Adventure from Oslo to Arctic Lapland
A festive Nordic escape from Oslo to Arctic Lapland featuring Northern Lights, Sami culture, snow adventures and an unforgettable igloo stay.Norway and Sweden Summer Tour
Discover the richness of Scandinavian summer on this curated journey through Norway and Sweden.Arctic Fjords and Nordic Flavours
An active family journey through Norway featuring fjords, wildlife, kayaking, scenic drives and historic stays from Lofoten to Bergen.Grand Rail Journey Through Denmark and Norway
A refined no fly Scandinavian rail journey through Copenhagen, Oslo, Bergen and Aurland with fjords, culture and Nordic wellness.Scandinavian Capitals and Norwegian Fjords Escape
A stylish Nordic journey through Stockholm, Copenhagen and Fjord Norway with canal cruises, Viking heritage and scenic rail travel.Aurora Sea Cabin Escape
Escape to Norway’s Arctic coast on the Aurora Sea Cabin Escape, a five‑night retreat offering secluded sea‑side cabins with fjord views.A Luxury Journey Through the Fjords in Norway
A luxurious journey through Oslo and the fjords with exclusive activities, iconic landscapes and premium boutique stays in Norway’s most scenic region...Magical Arctic Adventure in Tromsø: Whales, Huskies and Sami Culture
Discover Tromsø in winter with whale watching, husky sledding, Sami culture and chances to see the Northern Lights on this magical Arctic adventure.Iceland and Scandinavia Grand Discovery: Volcanoes, Fjords and Nordic Capitals
Discover Iceland and Scandinavia on a luxury journey featuring volcano tours, glacier hiking, Nordic cities, fjords and the Lofoten Islands.An Adventure Beneath the Aurora: Norway's Fjords, Cities and Arctic Wilderness
Luxury Norway adventure featuring Oslo, Bergen, fjords, husky sledding and unforgettable Northern Lights experiences.Luxury Oslo Fjords Adventure
Luxury journey through Oslo, Bergen and the fjords with private hikes, gourmet picnics, boutique hotels and unforgettable scenic travel.Autumn Fjords and Auroras
Fjord cruises, glacier walks and Aurora skies — this luxury autumn journey reveals the best of Norway from Oslo to the Lyngen Alps.Norway Fjords and Arctic Adventure: Oslo to Lyngen Alps Escape
Explore Norway from Oslo to the Lyngen Alps with fjords, food tours, rafting, kayaking and scenic rail journeys in one seamless trip.Oslo, Bergen and Lofoten Summer Escape
Norway luxury: Oslo design, Bergen fjords and mountain views, plus a private driver and spa experience in the dramatic Lofoten Islands.Norwegian Fjords, Waterfalls and Flåm Railway
Norwegian fjord adventures, meticulously crafted for foodies and outdoor enthusiasts alike.Tromsø and Malangen Winter Escape
Explore Tromsø and Malangen by snowshoe, sled and snowmobile, with Arctic wildlife, Sami culture and Northern Lights at every turn.Luxury Norway Fjords Journey from Oslo to Bergen
Luxury Norway journey from Oslo to Bergen featuring fjord kayaking, glacier views, historic hotels and authentic cultural experiences.Oslo and Tromsø Summer Sightseeing
From Oslo to Tromsø and Lyngen, discover Norway’s summer with fjord safaris, hikes, biking, local food and Arctic luxury stays.Autumn Colours in the Nordics
Panoramic ocean views, explore hidden fjords by private boat, and unwind in an elegant hillside retreat.Luxury Fjords Travel Through Western Norway
A slow luxury journey through Norway’s fjords with private cruises, scenic railways, fine food and historic hotels.Norway Uncovered From Fjords to the Arctic Circle
A family adventure through Norway’s fjords and Arctic landscapes featuring scenic rail journeys, fjord cruises and Lofoten experiencesA Family Fjord Adventure in Norway
An active family journey through Norway with fjords wildlife cycling ziplining and unforgettable Arctic landscapes.
Family Friendly Fjords Adventure in Norway
Family friendly journey through Norway’s fjords, forests and villages with scenic rail, cruises, farm visits and unique cultural experiences.Explore More Options in Norway
Let us tailor your dream journey through Norway’s dramatic landscapes. From cruising deep fjords to staying in remote luxury lodges above the Arctic Circle, your tailor-made adventure could include dog sledding, sea kayaking, or riding the world-famous Flåm Railway. Combine natural spectacle with cultural depth – Viking history, Sami heritage, and local cuisine await. With our first-hand insight and passion for exploration, your Norwegian escape will be unforgettable.
Clarion Hotel The Edge
Northern Lights, whale safaris and the Arctic Cathedral on your doorstepNusfjord Resort
A secluded valley stretching toward the sea, a quaint fishing villageFretheim Hotel, Flåm
Historic fjord hotel in Flåm offering Norwegian heritage, spectacular scenery and unforgettable fjord experiences.Villa Efjord
Arrive in style by helicopter, and dinner curated by your private chef
Trasti and Trine
Northern Norway's luxury boutique hotel with huskies in-situSommerro House
Cosy spaces, lavish suites, decadent rooms with rich art deco detailsWolf Lodge, Polar Park
Experience Arctic nature up close as you live amongst the wolvesRadisson Blu Polar Hotel Spitsbergen, Longyearbyen
In the heart of Longyearbyen, majestic snowy peaks & glistening glaciers
Hotel Union Øye
Follow in the footsteps of adventurers, royals, writers, and loversHolmen Husky Lodge
Luxury Arctic lodge near Alta offering Forest Suites, husky sledding adventures and northern lights experiences in North Norway.
Hotel St Elisabeth, Tromsø
A unique, luxury hotel in the heart of Tromsø, premium comfort, with a rich history
Basecamp Hotel
Steeped in Svalbard heritage, a taste Arctic life with raw-edge charmVindlys Luxury Apartments
Luxury private apartments with 360° views of the mountains and fjordsBergen Børs Hotel
Right in the heart of Bergen, with impressive painted vaulted ceilingsOnga Boutique Lodge and Glass Domes
A luxury igloo retreat, nestled far above the Arctic Circle in NorwayElva Hotel, Voss
Flesje Gard
Waterfront retreat in Sognefjord: peace, style and fjord views from your private deck, where mountains, sailing and quiet await.Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge
Deep-rooted connection to Norwegian farming traditions and cabin cultureMalangen Resort
Malangen Resort on Malangen Fjord, where Arctic peaks and skies meet. A tailored Norwegian escape of adventure, wellness and calm.
Hattvika Lodge, Rorbuer Fishermen's Cottages
Historic fishermen’s cottages with views out towards the Norwegian Sea
Energihotellet
Mid century design hotel above Lake Suldalsvatnet, where striking architecture, local cuisine and dramatic Norwegian landscapes meet.Opus XVI
Immerse youself in the remarkable life of composer Edvard Grieg in BergenWalaker Hotel
Norway’s oldest hotel, set beside the Lustrafjord, in the heart of SolvornSkaret Lodge
A private hilltop retreat near Tromsø with panoramic views, Nordic design and Arctic adventures from your doorstep.Manshausen Cabins
Award winning sea cabins, unobstructed views of mountains and the seaIsbreen the Glacier
A luxury igloo retreat, nestled far above the Arctic Circle in NorwayFjærland Fjordstove Hotel
Lake Suldalsvatnet, where architecture, local cuisine and Norwegian landscapes meetAmerikalinjen
A historic hotel at the heart of Oslo, charming contemporary designHotel Victoria, Stavanger
A sanctuary has never felt so comfortable and secluded, yet connected
Camp 291
All cabins have a private balcony with panoramic views, close to natureExceptional service throughout the entire planning and booking process – travel agencies don’t get any better than this. A brilliant, seamless experience matched by the holiday experience itself. Would recommend ‘Off the Map Travel’ to anyone considering booking for a Nordic experience ‘par excellence’.
Fantastic trip to Svalbard which delivered the true Arctic experience we were hoping for. The hotels were excellent and the activities – dog sledding and snowmobile expedition were lead by first class guides.
Top tip! The champagne tasting in the world’s most northerly wine cellar in the exceptional Funken Lodge is not to be missed!
We really enjoyed our Norwegian adventure despite the -22 days! Unfortunately no real experience of viewing the Lights but we did capture a couple of images on our last night – too much cloud otherwise so lots of snow. We really enjoyed the husky lodge – not at all what we had tentatively imagined. Thanks for your assistance, maybe next time we will see the Lights in all their glory.
Amy planned a fantastic trip! Everything was very well-thought out. All transfers went smoothly, accommodations were amazing, great restaurant recommendations and the tours were once-in-a-lifetime, can’t book it yourself off the internet experiences. The guides were all fantastic. Communications were prompt and everything worked exactly the way it was supposed to. What a pleasure! Already working on our next trip.
I used OTMT to organise a holiday to see the Northern Lights for my partner’s 50th birthday. They took the time to understand my priorities, the kinds of places we like to stay and the things we like to do. They recommended a fabulous itinerary in Norway centred around the Lyngen Experience Lodge. The holiday itself lived up to expectations and I have no hesitation in recommending OTMT. They listened carefully during the planning and delivered the perfect present for my partner.
Arctic Retreat was simply magical. Graham and his team were superb. Their entire focus was on ensuring we had an outstanding experience. The accommodation, setting and food were all excellent. The team, experienced professionals, each brought their own personal touch and local nuance. It was faultless. The dog sledging trip directly from Arctic Retreat was also superb. We would return to Arctic Retreat in a heartbeat.
Well-organized trip to Norway and Svalbard with great accommodations and activities. Gwen was communicative and responsive to requests. Highly recommend!
Amy was a great help with planning this trip. Our trip turned out amazing. I also was very grateful for Off the Map’s Front Desk service, which promptly handled an on the spot issue we had.
The ease of everything stood out to me. All we had to do was be there at the right time. The dog sledding was the highlight for my daughter and sister. We had the best time! For me, Manshausen was the highlight. We were very lucky and the only guests there for the majority of our stay. The staff was amazing and the food was so delicious. We had moose steak and it was the best meal I’ve ever had.
The cabins were comfortable and we were so lucky to have 2 clear nights where we just sat and watched the northern lights. We were able to get some awesome pictures too.
I appreciate all your time and care with planning our trip! I won’t hesitate to use Off the Map travel for our next adventure.
My family and I traveled to Sweden to see The Northern Lights in March of 2023. From the planning process to every detail of the trip, I could not have been more pleased with our experience. Alex was exceptional to work with. His guidance on the time of year, where to stay, activities to do and how to get to and from everything was spot on. I have never used a tour company before but thought a trip of this kind would be easier with some help. I am so glad that I did. The entire week was seamless and completely stress-free, allowing us to truly enjoy Sweden and our time together as a family. I will be recommending Off The Map travel to friends and family and will certainly be using them myself again in the future.
We – the whole family – loved the whole journey!!
The accommodations, the activities and especially the great people – thank you very much for this fantastic organisation !!!
I would thoroughly recommend this company. Their planning and advice was spot on. Alex responded to my calls and emails very promptly. I will definitely use them again for future trips.








