Geilo Information
Apres-ski
Most après-ski in Geilo takes place in the resort’s various hotels and restaurants. Some can get lively, although high alcohol taxes in Scandinavia can dampened the party mood a little.
Skibaren in the Dr Holms Hotel (tel: +47 32 095 700; www.drholms.no) is a popular piano bar for more mature (and well-heeled) grown-ups, while Sofias Cafe & Bar (tel: +47 32 094 100) is a cosy all-rounder, with an attached bakery.
After the sun goes down, the Off Pist Lounge (tel: +47 32 092 888; www.off-pist.no) fills up; one of the main nightclubs in the town.
Eating out
Peppes Pizza (tel: +47 22 22 55 55; www.peppes.no) is a good first stop to sample a top quality meal – expect fresh-out-the-oven pizza, and anything else from chicken burgers to kale salads.
For a nice cafe stop, try A Tartiner Bakeri (tel: +47 95 848 623), known for its great coffee and cakes (the chocolate buns are especially recommended), but also does great salads and sandwiches.
The retro Bowl & Dine in the Dr Holms Hotel is a fun homage to the 1950s American diner. The same hotel also has a French-inspired Brasserie serving a great selection of classic dishes.
For a truly sophisticated dining experience with an atmosphere more typical of the region, try Restaurant Hallingstuene (tel: +47 32 091 250; www.hallingstuene.no) in Geilo town centre, which is run by TV chef Frode Aga who uses local ingredients in his immaculately presented creations.
Resort Information
Beyond the slopes
Geilo has a lot to offer in terms of activities other than skiing and snowboarding. Snowshoeing, dog sledding, sleigh rides, snow kiting and a high ropes course are all on offer. In addition, there are two bowling alleys, a cinema and several swimming pools, spas and gyms in the town itself.
The resort is home to Norway’s longest toboggan run at 1.8km-long (1.1 miles) in Dagalifjell Park (tel: +47 32 093 332). Consisting of straight stages and curves, the custom-built sleds you hire here can apparently reach a speed of 70km/h (43mph). Airboarding (tobogganing on inflatable sledges) is also offered here.
Visitors should also take some time to explore the two national parks that are within easy reach of the ski resort. Hardangervidda and Hallingskarvet National Parks both offer stunning scenery and plentiful opportunities for snowshoeing, winter hiking and ice fishing.
Family fun
Childcare is offered at Geilo’s delightfully named Trollklubben (the Troll Club) in Vestlia (tel: +47 32 09 00 00; www.geiloholiday.no), and dedicated child-only ski areas are available within four of the ski areas: Kikut, Vestlia, Slaatta and Havsdalen.
Tobogganing for small children and those a little bit older (10 to 14 years) is a popular activity at Geilo. The family parallel slalom competitions are always great entertainment, while treasure hunting and ski orienteering are other enjoyable options.
The biggest hotels in Geilo have children's playrooms and swimming pools.
Retail therapy
There are around 40 shops in Geilo town centre, including grocery stores, sports/ski shops (the oldest of which dates back to the 1920s), clothing boutiques, a bookshop, perfumeries, gift shops and florists.
For browsing, Herleiks (+47 32 094 861) offer toys, kitchenware and decorations for the home plus soft clothing made of natural fabrics, whilst Samsara Geilo (tel: +47 32 090 600; www.samsarashop.no) has a great selection of the latest Norwegian fashions.
Splashing out
The Japanese-inspired, 1,000 sq m (10,763 sq ft) Dr Holms spa (tel: +47 32 095 700; www.drholms.no) is an oasis of relaxation in bustling Geilo. Facilities in the luxurious establishment include an outdoor Jacuzzi, Turkish baths and steam room, while all manner of treatments are offered in the beautiful massage parlours.
Hotels
There is a good choice of hotels in Geilo, from beautiful luxury establishments that boast spas and stunning restaurants to more affordable options with basic amenities. Those looking for self-catering options can stay in one of the charming traditional wooden chalets, cabins and lodges that are scattered across the area.
Luxury
Dr Holms Hotel
One of the most luxurious hotels and most popular hangouts in Geilo, Dr Holms Hotel has comfortable rooms, great bars and restaurants, and a lovely spa.
Address: , Timrehaugvn 2, Geilo, 3580Telephone: +47 32 095 700
Website: http://www.drholms.no
Vestlia Resort
Located right by the slopes, Vestlia Hotel offers a heap of facilities including an on-site bar and restaurant, pool, gym, spa, golf course, and perhaps most intriguingly, an 'adventure bathroom'.
Address: , Bakkestolvegen 81, Geilo, 3580Telephone: +47 32 087 200
Website: http://www.vestlia.no
Moderate
Highland Lodge
The Highland Lodge is centrally located with a free ski bus that shuttles guests directly to the slopes. Facilities here include an indoor pool, on-site restaurant and large lounge area with big screen TV.
Address: , Lienvegen 11, Geilo, 3580Telephone: +47 32 096 100
Website: http://www.highland.no
Ustedalen Hotell Geilo
This comfortable family hotel has 86 rooms and 3 luxury apartments. Ustedalen boasts a swimming pool, sauna, lounge, piano bar and a nice view of the Ustedalen Fjord.
Address: , Gamleveien 32, Geilo, 3580Telephone: +47 32 096 700
Website: http://www.ustedalen.no
Cheap
Lia Fjellhotell
A good option for non-skiers, private transport owners or those on a budget, the Lia Fjellhotel offers basic accommodation in a remote and peaceful location, 20 minutes from the ski centre by car. The hotel benefits from great views of the Skurdal lake.
Address: , Skurdalsvegen 660, Geilo, 3580Telephone: +47 32 087 400
Website: http://www.fjellhotell.no
Ro Hotel
Rooms at this budget hotel can accommodate up to five guests, and there is an on-site restaurant. Ro Hotel benefits from a convenient location near the railway station.
Address: , Geiloveien 55-57, Geilo, 3581Telephone: +47 32 095 090
Website: http://www.rohotel.no
