A Night of Frost-Bitten Luxury - Karl Johan Hotel Oslo, Norway

December 2023

Photo credit: Zosia Brys

Hi Friend, 

The snow melted beneath my hot step as I wiped away the remnants on a synthetic mat. Golden letters beamed forth: ‘Karl Johan Hotel.’

Snuggled comfortably among the high street of Oslo, the Karl Johan Hotel is both tucked away and yet, concurrently, unmissable. The beautiful structure, nestled between others, lit up the street entirely. 

The Karl Johan Hotel has a rich history dating back to 1874 when it was founded and run by the Larsen sisters. The hotel has been located in the same building on Karl Johans’ gate, which was redesigned in 1899 by architect Ove Ekman. The hotel has been a witness to many historic events in Oslo, with a prime location on the city's main street.

The Larsen sisters were known for their warm hospitality and dedication to their guests, even those who couldn't afford to pay. Over the years, the hotel has maintained its commitment to excellent customer service and has undergone renovations while preserving its historic aura. 

Photo credit: Zosia Brys

Upon entering the hotel, the beautifully mysterious lobby managed to capture a sense of intrigue within its walls—not one that scares you away, but one that makes you feel part of something bigger. Each distinguishably crafted piece of interior is touched by human hands, yet the sophistication of the place never diminishes the history it holds.

The main attraction within the hotel, one variable that is easily noticed, noted, and shared, is the visual appeal the hotel brings. The floor-to-ceiling windows, thankfully not opening all the way, offer a view of Oslo’s current climate, gorgeously covered yet lightly splattered with snow throughout its streets. One might think to be annoyed by the inability to keep balance with each step, yet simultaneously one cannot ignore the joy that the first snowflakes brought to humanity. 

Photo credit: Zosia Brys

After exploring Norway within the limited time we received here, I have drawn a couple of conclusions. Some might call these generalisations, but I believe they support a very strong and positive ideal of Norwegian kindness. I have yet to meet one sour face. 

While the weather is a significant aspect of the experience, the stay was much more than that. If anything, it was an opportunity to remain an observer rather than a participant. The rooms provided a comforting sense of a second home.

Photo credit: Zosia Brys

We were warmly welcomed with breakfast for both mornings of our stay. The breakfast was exceptionally distributed, and the freshness was evident. The chefs were visibly working behind the hot tops, serving the freshest breakfast options: eggs, sausages, potatoes, pancakes, bacon—everything you could think of and more. For those who preferred a lighter meal, the colder section of the room offered fresh produce, fruits, and juices, all handmade daily. You could easily spin around, grab a bowl, fill it with your favourite granola or cereal, then add fresh, cold yoghurt, pack cold blueberries by the side, and drizzle honey on top. 

We plopped ourselves into the cushioned seats, and the warmth radiating within the room oozed out the regret of leaving our cosy bed. I truly wish you were here to see it all. 

Until next time!

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Nicola Sebastian is a writer, thinker, and sometimes a dreamer. Currently finishing up her studies, her words, writing, and thoughts can be found in the small nooks of the big wide web.