If you picture Norway as deep blue water framed by snow-dusted peaks and tiny farms tucked into the hillsides, Hotel Alexandra in Loen delivers that postcard at full size. This family-run property has been welcoming guests for generations, and it shows in the way the place balances tradition with modern comforts. Think carved wood, bright Norwegian textiles, and long lounges made for lingering, paired with a serious spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and fjord-view rooms that make you forget your phone exists.
In short: Hotel Alexandra is one of the best bases for exploring Nordfjord, especially if you want a resort-style stay without losing the sense of place. It’s perfect for travelers who want nature on the doorstep, a good meal at night, and a proper swim or sauna between. If you’re after edgy minimalism or downtown nightlife, this is not that. If you want fjord drama with a soft landing, this is your spot.
Let’s dive into what it’s like to stay here, what stands out, and a few local tips to stretch your time and budget in Loen.
Location and First Impressions
Loen sits at the inner end of Nordfjord, with mountains lifting straight from the water and glaciers perched inland. Arriving by car is half the fun, whether you come via Stryn or along the fjord from Olden. The hotel itself is set just back from the water, with lawns that spill toward the fjord and views that change mood with the weather. On sunny evenings, the light can turn the water silver. On rainy mornings, low clouds thread the peaks like wool. Both are good.
The lobby is classic Norwegian resort style. You get warm wood, big windows, and clusters of seating that invite board games, long coffees, or planning tomorrow’s hike. It’s not trying to be a city hotel. The vibe is relaxed, multigenerational, and genuinely welcoming. Staff are quick with practical advice about hiking conditions, opening hours, and where the roadwork is today. That local know-how is gold in the fjords, where weather and logistics matter.
Rooms and Views
Rooms vary in size and style, but the common denominator is comfort and very good sleep quality. Beds are what you want after a day outside. If view matters to you, book it. Fjord-facing rooms are worth the premium, particularly in summer when sunset paints the mountains late into the night. Many rooms have balconies that become your private lookout. If you’re a light sleeper, ask for a quieter wing away from any bus drop-off points.
Storage space is decent, and bathrooms are modern and functional rather than flashy. Heating and ventilation handle changeable fjord weather without fuss. If you travel with wet gear, use the thoughtful drying spots in the room and the hotel’s common areas. It’s a small thing, but in Norway it matters.
Dining: Hearty, Local, and Crowd-Pleasing
The dining program is built around solid Norwegian classics with a modern touch. Breakfast is a highlight. Expect a generous buffet with proper bread, smoked fish, eggs, cheese, and fresh fruit, plus hot options to fuel a long hike. Coffee is plentiful, and there’s enough variety that even picky eaters leave happy.
Dinner leans seasonal and regionally sourced. You’ll see fjord trout, lamb in autumn, and berries when they’re at their peak. Portions are generous, flavors are clean, and you never feel like the view is doing all the work. If you want something more casual, the hotel’s lounge menus and bar snacks do the trick. Prices are in line with rural resort Norway. Translation: not cheap, but fair for the quality and setting.
Norwegian tip from someone who grew up with this: book your dinner times in high season. The summer rush can fill popular slots, especially if a group arrives after a day on the Loen Skylift.
Spa and Pools: A Real Reason to Stay In
Alexandra’s pool and spa area is a full afternoon in itself. You get both indoor and outdoor pools, family-friendly zones, and quiet corners if you’re here to unwind. The outdoor pool on a chilly evening is a small luxury, steam lifting into the mountain air while the fjord sits still beyond the glass. Saunas are well kept, and there’s an appealing menu of treatments if you want to lean into the resort side of life.
For families, the pool complex is a lifesaver on wet days. For couples, early morning or late evening is your time to enjoy a more peaceful soak. Bring your swimsuit in your carry-on on arrival day; you’ll want to use the facilities even if your luggage runs late.
Activities Right Outside: Loen Skylift, Via Ferrata, and Glaciers
From the hotel, you’re minutes from Loen Skylift, which whisks you from fjord level to alpine views in a steep, thrilling glide. Up top, there are walking paths, a restaurant, and that big silence you only get in the high mountains. On clear days the panorama is ridiculous. On moody days the clouds make the peaks feel close enough to touch.
More adventurous travelers have the via ferrata options, zipline experiences, and high-elevation hikes that need good shoes and respect for weather. If you want a softer day, drive to Lovatnet and do short lakeside walks, or take a boat ride that shows you the glacier valleys in a gentler frame. Glacier walks on Jostedalsbreen can be arranged with licensed guides; they’re unforgettable when conditions are right.
Local tip: Weather shifts fast here. Check conditions in the morning and again after lunch before committing to longer hikes. If the mountain forecast turns sour, do the Olden valley drives, waterfall stops, and bakery runs instead. Nobody loses when cinnamon buns are involved.
Service and Atmosphere
This is a place where lots of Norwegians bring family for big birthdays or long weekends. That means the staff are used to many types of travelers, from toddlers figuring out the pool to grandparents tackling a short trail. The tone is unfussy and helpful. If you need something, ask. They’ll either sort it or point you to the person who can. I’ve appreciated the honesty here: if a hike is unsafe after heavy rain, they’ll say it plainly, then hand you three solid alternatives.
Practical Tips and What I’d Do Differently Next Time
First, the seasons. Summer is peak, with long light and everything open. Spring and autumn are quieter, often better value, and still deliver big scenery. Winter is deeply peaceful, though some activities close and you plan your days around light. If your priority is hiking high, aim late June to early September. If you want stillness, come in shoulder seasons.
Second, book the right room type. If the budget allows, go fjord view with balcony. If not, no shame in choosing a comfortable room and spending on activities instead. You’ll be outside a lot.
Third, car rental unlocks the area. The public transport connections exist, but a car gives you freedom to chase weather windows and find less-visited corners. Fuel up in Stryn or Olden, and keep an eye on road notices.
Fourth, make a simple plan for wet days: spa, a shorter walk by Lovatnet, a cafe stop, maybe the local museum. You’ll still feel like you’re doing the fjords right without pretending the rain isn’t rain.
What I’d do differently next time: build in one “do nothing” afternoon on purpose. Swim, read, nap, repeat. The place is built for it, and you’ll enjoy your big adventure day more when you’re not cramming.
Who Will Love Hotel Alexandra
If you want a resort-style stay with true fjord character, this hits the mark. Families get space to play and recover, couples have the views and spa time, and solo travelers get reliable comfort after long days out. It also works well for multi-generation trips, where activity levels differ and everyone still wants to gather over dinner.
Travelers who thrive on nightlife or sleek urban design might feel the hotel leans traditional. Consider that a feature, not a flaw. Alexandra is confident in its skin, and the setting is the real star.
Nearby Alternatives and Pairings
If you’re stitching together a longer route, consider pairing Loen with Ålesund for art nouveau streets and island views, or with Geiranger for the classic UNESCO fjord scenery. Closer by, Olden has additional lodging and glacier access, and Stryn offers shops and cafes for a looser day. If you prefer a smaller guesthouse vibe, the valley has charming farm stays, but you’ll give up the big spa and pool facilities.
For my money, Hotel Alexandra is where you stay when you want to mix adventure with ease. You wake up, check the mountains, decide your plan, and know that whatever the weather does, you’ll end the day well-fed and warm, watching the fjord settle as the light lingers. That’s the Norway many visitors hope to find. Here, it’s right outside your window.