Skåbu Fjellhotell

Welcome to Skåbu Fjellhotell, a charming Boutique Hotel nestled in Northern Europe’s highest inhabited mountain village.

In the year 2008, Jannicke Haug Doksaeter & Henrik Sverdrup Beston, embarked on a journey of transformation and love when they acquired Lykkja, a breathtaking mountain farm nestled in the heart of Skåbu. With a rich tapestry of history woven into over 20 meticulously preserved houses dating back to the 1500-1700s, the farm stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of authenticity and tradition.

Jannicke and Henrik warmly invite you to experience the enchantment of Skåbu Fjellhotell, a boutique hotel cradled in Norway’s loftiest inhabited mountain village. This haven of tranquility boasts 12 elegantly renovated double rooms, 3 exquisite apartments, and 2 stunning mountain suites, all adorned with a harmonious blend of warmth, comfort, nature, and history.

Open by appointment to visitors, they are delighted to guide you through the ancient houses, offering you a chance to connect with the gentle animals and immerse yourself in enthralling stories from times long past. Nestled in this inclusive, charming, and hospitable mountain village, the community’s passion and love for their heritage are palpable. It was perhaps this very spirit that inspired Sigurd Haug to breathe new life into the old Cooperative, a once-forgotten gem in the heart of Skåbu village, acquired in 2015.

With no clear plan but fueled by a sense of purpose and determination, the journey began. “The road will be created while walking,” they believed. Over the next four years, three generations, united by a shared vision and unwavering commitment, meticulously transformed the dilapidated structure into a beacon of hope and renewal. In 2019, the doors of the newly revitalized boutique hotel swung open, inviting the world to partake in its renewed spirit of joy, laughter, and cherished gatherings. Their family’s journey with Lykkja and Skåbu Fjellhotell stands as a beacon of inspiration, a testament to the power of love, hard work, and the magic that unfolds when one follows their heart and honors the past.

Amenities at Skåbu Fjellhotell

Free toiletries

Flat screen TV

Free WiFi

Pets allowed

Hairdryer

Electric car charging

What to know about Skåbu Fjellhotell

hotel address

Skåbuvegen, Norway

closest airport

Oslo Airport

from airport

3,5 hours to drive from Oslo

About the Location

Skåbu is situated in Gudbrandsdalen, in the middle of southern Norway. It takes approximately 3,5 hours to drive from Oslo to Skåbu, and a little more than 4 hours from Trondheim.

Highlights & Activities

Hiking in the mountain

The Skåbu mountains are a haven of pristine wilderness, exuding a distinct and unparalleled charm. Their ecosystem and atmosphere are entirely unique. Skåbu is home to a thriving population of birds and animals, serving as a vital passageway for Europe's largest moose migration, earning it the nickname "Mooseland." This remarkable locale, with its picturesque landscapes, is a great place to hike, and it attracts nature photographers from all corners of the world.

Paddle

The paddle trip commences at Breisjøen, where you’ll leisurely navigate through a charming and picturesque river region until you reach Ramsjøen. After docking at the water’s edge, a brief hike awaits, leading up to the magnificent moose tower in Espedalen. Continuing the journey on foot towards Espefossen, we might be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of a moose along the way.

Go Rafting Sjoa

The thrilling combination of the Sjoa river's high water level, an exhilarating adrenaline rush, and the breathtaking scenery was an experience they wholeheartedly recommended. After an exhilarating 2-3 hours traversing the magical Sjoa river, their energized and joyous group disembarked.

Cross country skiing

Experience the charm of Skåbu on a winter day as you ski through sheltered birch forests and ascend the barren mountains with expansive plains and breathtaking vistas overlooking Huldreheimen and Jotunheimen. If you have a passion for skihiking, Skåbu, with its welcoming and picturesque mountains, is the ideal destination.

Dog sledding

Imagine leading your own dog sled through a welcoming wilderness, accompanied by the loyal companionship of dogs and the serene harmony of nature. In this captivating journey, stress and worries melt away, replaced by an effervescent joy, a liberating sense of freedom, and a profound feeling of accomplishment.

Visiting Lykkja Mountain

This is a historic and genuine mountain farm featuring 25 buildings dating back to the 15th through the 18th century. The family here raises wild sheep and offers farm tourism. It resembles a charming museum and boasts breathtaking beauty.

The Skåbu Fjellhotell has received prestigious awards for their sustainability efforts and commitment to regenerative tourism. They are happy to share how they are working with the regenerative approach.

Zero waste food practices, not only contribute to environmental conservation but also enhance their reputation among eco-conscious travelers. These efforts align with broader sustainability goals and can lead to cost savings through reduced waste disposal fees and improved operational efficiency.

They employ a regenerative approach in which they utilize the entire animal and process local ingredients from their own farm animals, including pigs and sheep, as well as sourcing trout, deer, moose, and reindeer from local fishermen and catchers. This approach forms one of the fundamental pillars of their concept.

They are eager to engage and empower the local community in planning and decision-making about the management and future development of tourism in Skåbu. This also includes respecting and enhancing the historic heritage, authentic culture, traditions, and local customs.

They want to contribute to the development of Skåbu and create positive ripple effects in the community. Their aim is to maximize the contribution of tourism to the economic prosperity of the local community, including the proportion of visitor spending that is retained locally. They also seek a widespread and fair distribution of economic and social benefits from tourism throughout the recipient community to improve local opportunities.

They have set up a food lab with a focus on ancient preservation techniques, food traditions, self-sustainability, foraging, and increased understanding of raw materials. The food lab is a concept they plan to expand into a commercial direction, and they aim to invite guests to partake in this endeavor.

Travel with Us

Tell us about yourself

Name

Age Range

How did you hear about Us?

Where did you hear about Us?

Your Personal Refferal

Where are you traveling from?

What are you most excited about exploring, celebrating, or enjoying during your trip

Tell us about your ideal trip

What Regions are you interested in traveling to?

DO YOU HAVE A SPECIFIC REGENERATIVE RESORT IN MIND?

What is your preferred style of travel?

When are you interested in traveling?

Specific date you want to travel

How long of a trip are you interested in planning?

Who are you traveling with?

What style of accommodation do you prefer?

What is your trip budget?

I would like to receive the latest Regenerative Travel news and offerings.

Stories featuring Skåbu Fjellhotell

Cultivating Change: How Plant-Based Diets are Defining the Future of Travel

In an era increasingly focused on sustainable living, the concept of regenerative travel has taken center stage. This travel philosophy aims to leave a positive mark on the environment and local communities while enhancing personal experiences. Two key elements of regenerative travel are organic food and a vegan diet, which support both individual well-being and environmental preservation.

Cuisine

Cultivating Change: How Plant-Based Diets are Defining the Future of Travel

News

Members News: Manta Resort featured in Bright Ideas Condé Nast Traveler 2023

We are proud to share that member hotel Manta Resort has earned a well-deserved spotlight in “Bright Ideas CNT 2023.” This recognition highlights Manta Resort’s commitment to conservation and community through Manta’s Kwanini Foundation, the new underwater safari experience gives a guided interpretation of the Kwanini Marine Reserve.

Explore

Hotel Aguas Claras Debuts Deluxe Luxury Bungalows: Discover a Surfer’s Oasis on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast

Located in the pristine shores of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast lies Playa Chiquita, a hidden gem that captivates travelers with its unspoiled beauty and a unique fusion of tranquility and tropical vibrancy. It is here that the enchanting Hotel Aguas Claras unfolds its story amidst the whispers of rustling palm leaves and the rhythmic lull of the Caribbean waves.

Cuisine

Cultivating Change: How Plant-Based Diets are Defining the Future of Travel

News

Members News: Manta Resort featured in Bright Ideas Condé Nast Traveler 2023

Explore

Hotel Aguas Claras Debuts Deluxe Luxury Bungalows: Discover a Surfer’s Oasis on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast

Press

The Standard – How to spot greenwashing (and other sustainable travel buzzwords you need to know)

In Juliet Kinsman’s insightful article, she delves into the multifaceted realm of responsible travel and sustainability, unraveling the complexities often obscured by common buzzwords and clichés. Her goal is to equip readers with a comprehensive understanding of key terms, enabling them to discern between tour operators and hotels that authentically prioritize ethical practices and those merely paying lip service to sustainability.

Hotel Location

Skåbu Fjellhotell

Skåbu is situated in Gudbrandsdalen, in the middle of southern Norway. It takes approximately 3,5 hours to drive from Oslo to Skåbu, and a little more than 4 hours from Trondheim.

Hotel Address

Skåbuvegen, Norway

Closest Airport

Oslo Airport

Travel Time From Airport

3,5 hours to drive from Oslo

RT+ Membership Perks

Receive $99 travel credit towards a 3 night minimum stay as a Regenerative Travel+ member
Have an opportunity to meet with one of the personalities behind the family-run hotel and
hear about how we work with the locals living in the highest inhabited mountain village in
Northen Europe, Skåbu.
Guided tour at Lykkja Mountain Farm
o A view into the history of Skåbu and our story
o Taste of our local food
Regenerative guide to take home:
o Our regenerative principles
o The story of the hotel, the building, interior, the hosts and employees
o History and culture of Skåbu Mountain Village
o Our nature, hunting traditions, self-sufficiency and following the rules of nature’s game.