Kleivstua in Norway: Is this Historical Hotel and Lodge Worth the Hype?
- Anne-Ki Magraff
- Nov 6, 2025
- 6 min read
Updated: Nov 9, 2025
Perched high on the dramatic Krokkleiva climb in Hole kommune, this historical lodge/hotel is truly unique, and I'm not just saying that!
It’s a small village of 18 beautifully restored buildings, where the history of Norway doesn’t just hang on the walls - it breathes right next to you.
While most people in Southern Norway are familiar with Kleivstua, and it's internationally recognized, it still feels like a true hidden gem that you absolutely must visit.
Usually, I'd save the best for last, but my 24 hours at Kleivstua were so good that I have to tell you right now: You absolutely must visit this place!
Experiences you won't forget
When you think of Norway, what pops into your mind? Fjords, northern lights, maybe some Viking history?
Sure, those things are amazing, but if you’re like me, you want to find those special places that may not be part of the tourist route. You want to experience something unique — the kind of experiences that you know you won't forget.
I particularly enjoy it when nature and history are involved because that means a lot of interesting stories are lurking around waiting to be told. And I do like good stories.
Besides, people tend to be in better moods when they're surrounded by nature, making getaways like this pretty drama-free. And when you add ridiculous, lovely views into the pot, I know my time will be well spent.
Anyway, let me tell you about Kleivstua in Hole kommune, Norway.
A Cabin with a Star’s Secret
Kleivstua is actually a small village, comprised of 18 beautifully restored buildings with a total of 43 rooms. What I loved right away was that each cabin and room has its own identity. You won't find cookie-cutter hotel rooms here!
My Kleivstua adventure started in a charming, quiet cabin called Løvlia. The room was incredibly comfortable, and you could sense the deep history all around. The cabin itself started out centuries ago as a simple sæter (a small summer farm) where people lived while their animals grazed.
The cabin also held a fun secret - a gorgeous, finely carved wooden headboard that was a gift from the legendary singer Diana Ross. She must've loved being here!
Of course, I had to investigate the headboard further, and I found some old initials carved at the bottom of the board. Judging by the writing, they appear to be quite old. Very old. Very cool. I wonder where Diana Ross picked up this piece of history?
I can also tell you that the room was spotless, and the bathroom was functional, quaint, and very clean. And that says a lot about a place.
The King’s Road: Norway’s Old Highway
Kleivstua's history is closely tied to the Bergen King’s Road (Den Bergenske Kongevei), Norway’s historic and significant old highway, which was intended to link Oslo (then known as Christiania) and Bergen.
The road was officially opened over the Krokskogen area between 1805 and 1807. It wasn’t just a path - it was the life of the country, moving mail, goods, and people - from kings to common folk.
Kleivstua was put right at the top of the seriously steep Krokkleiva gorge.
This climb is almost 1.5 km long and ascends 278 meters - it was so challenging that the person running Kleivstua actually had an official job (around 1820) helping travelers get their horses and heavy wagons up that hill.
Back then, the area became a huge tourist draw in Europe due to its dramatic climb and the amazing views.
The Barrel Lift
Speaking of that tough hill, from 1958 to 1977, they had this quirky invention called the "Tønneheisen" (The Barrel Lift).
It was a simple lift system that used barrels to haul things like food and supplies up the steep cliff face, saving the effort of driving the whole way up. It’s a fascinating piece of history that reveals how isolated this spot used to be.
I learned a great deal more about this, but the whole story actually deserves an article of its own.
Secrets and Ghosts
I was also lucky enough to speak with Andy Friedrichs, the current gjestgiver (innkeeper), who has lived in the area for 24 years. He loves the untouched nature and how easily accessible Oslo and the neighbouring towns and villages are, and has no plans to move back to Denmark, from where he grew up, which I understand.
He told me that Kleivstua takes pride in keeping the place authentic. Most of the furniture is antique, and they ensure it remains in good condition so that guests can actually use it. Yep, you can sit in old chairs and dine on tables that hold secrets dating back hundreds of years.
When I asked if Andy had any good ghost stories to share with me, he smiled. He said the buildings definitely have their old stories and possibly lingering spirits, but that many of them had “moved on".
He’s never seen or heard anything himself, but he quickly said lots of people have. A place that’s been around since 1780 and has seen so many travelers simply has to have a few secret watchers!
Whispers in the Forest
The forest of Krokskogen is the real center of the mystery. This place is famous for its legends, partly because of the renowned fairytale collectors, Asbjørnsen and Moe. They spent a considerable amount of time here.
When you drive up the 400-meter climb to the lodge, you're following a path full of old rumors. People have always talked about seeing the "little people" (huldrefolk) and other ghosts roaming the old King’s Road and the surrounding trees. It definitely gives you a special feeling when you walk the trails. Exciting if you ask me!
The Trails: Great Fun All Year
Beyond the history and the great hotel experience, another reason to visit is the fantastic hiking and cross-country skiing opportunities. These trails are great all year round and are perfect for enjoying the outdoors.
Hiking: You can walk sections of the old King’s Road, or take the easy walk to the amazing Kongens Utsikt (The King’s View) and Dronningens Utsikt (The Queen’s View). These spots, named after royal visits, offer a stunning, wide-open view of the entire area. It’s hard to believe you’re this high up in a forest!
Skiing: In winter, the Norwegian Ski Federation (Skiforeningen) turns this place into a paradise by converting the old routes into miles of perfect cross-country ski tracks. This makes Kleivstua an ideal, easy-to-reach spot for a fun winter trip.
The Food: Local & Delicious
The atmosphere carries over into the dining room. Kleivstua is renowned for hosting large-scale events, but its food philosophy is straightforward: serving local and fresh ingredients.
Instead of a huge à la carte menu, they serve one amazing main meal each evening called "Dagens" (The Day's Meal).
This focus means the quality is always high. They are very accommodating, though - just call ahead if you have allergies or need vegetarian or vegan options.
The breakfast was great too, and yes, you get to make your own waffles!
Getting Work Done by the Fire
As a bonus, I was even able to complete a little work! Kleivstua has these amazing, cozy living rooms that any guest can use. And the sofas were very comfortable.
I curled up in one with a roaring fire going, and with that atmosphere, I became quite productive.
So, if you're looking to live like a digital nomad for a while, write a book, or go on a mini-adventure, this is a great place to be and will get your creative juices flowing.
My Final Review of Kleivstua in Norway
I can honestly say I could stay here for weeks. It was incredibly relaxing, yet it gave me a great deal of energy. The views are incredible, the history is deep, and the feeling you get is just unmatched.
Another positive aspect of visiting Kleivstua is that it's just an hour's drive from Oslo!
The staff are super friendly and real. They're professional, but not overly formal, which is perfect for a historical spot like this.
The only negative comment I have is the checkout time at 10 am. It should be 11 or 12, as this allows people time to enjoy a nice, long breakfast and perhaps even take a morning hike before returning to the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
You will not regret visiting this historical lodge/hotel. And who knows - maybe you might hear or see something that will be hard to explain to friends and family. :)
You can find Kleivstua's contact info on their website: www.kleivstua.no
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