Probably the most design-led hotel in the city, this impressive building, with its rusted-looking thirteen story edifice inspired by the area’s history as a shipyard, sits proudly on the waterfront. Offering indulgence as well as adventure on the doorstep, it’s definitely for those looking for a bit more than a base and a bite to eat.
Even the base-line ‘standard’ accommodation is well appointed, with warm tones, and a mix of material surfaces such as terrazzo, plywood, and even a cork board with a map of the archipelago. Accommodation scales right up to the sumptuous Master Suite, where commanding views are guaranteed.
Wellness-wise, there’s a heated rooftop running track (still quite brisk in the winter… and probably the summer too), a well-equipped gym, and an arctic wellness experience which includes outdoor jacuzzi, cold plunge pool, steam room and, of course, sauna. Having worked up an appetite, there’s a ground floor restaurant and bar using local ingredients, and offering a very good line in alcohol-free beers and mocktails.
Address: Skansegata 7, 9008 Tromsø, Norway
Thon Tromsø/ Thon Polar
Two hotels in one here, and that’s because they are, in fact, part of the same family… just make sure you go to the correct reception. Across the road from each other and sitting just above the main strip of the city centre, the Thon brand provides a reliable bolthole to rest cold feet and weary heads. ‘Budget’ would be pushing it… there’s no such thing in Tromsø, especially in the winter peak season, but the comfortable accommodation has everything you need, including a heated bathroom floor and Chromecast TV.
A decent (though very busy) buffet breakfast is included, and it’s a very short walk away from the fantastic Mathallen restaurant. A reception iPad is exclusively geared to ordering a taxi which, even during peak season, usually turns up within minutes, but while you’re waiting you can help yourself to a complimentary coffee.
Address: Grønnegata 45, 9008 Tromsø, Norway
