Photo: iNSIDE EUROPE.
A historic anchor to Trondheim’s past coupled with a bold testament to its future, the Britannia Hotel provides a 5-star experience and a window into the soul of the city. Recognizable for its striking domed white façade, the Britannia Hotel has welcomed everyone from Queen Elizabeth II to U.S. presidents to Beyonce and Jay-Z since its opening in 1870. Having reopened in April 2019 after a multi-year $160 million dollar renovation, the Britannia Hotel welcomes you as its next guest.
Sight-Sleeping in the Britannia
Sight-Sleeping is a signature iNSIDE EUROPE experience — and the Britannia Hotel is a perfect example for a one-of-a-kind hotel to stay in. With 256 rooms and 11 suites, options are plentiful. Choose between, Superior, Deluxe, and Junior Suites–each decorated with bespoke furnishings, custom-handcrafted Hästens beds and Carerra marble bathrooms. Additional amenities include nightly turn-down service, access to Britannia Spa and Fitness, concierge service and a gourmet à la carte breakfast in the iconic Palmehaven.
More than a beautiful place to rest, Britannia Hotel is “a restaurant house in Trondheim, catering to all preferences and palettes.” Whether you are in the mood for a fine dining experience, Afternoon Tea, or something delicious in one of the more informal options, Britannia has a venue for all occasions.
Eating & Drinking in the Britannia
Overseen by Chef Christopher Davidsen, the Silver medal winner of the Bocuse d’Or in 2017, Britannia’s culinary arts bring six options to the table. Davidsen’s signature restaurant, Speilsalen, exudes elegance at every turn. Fine dining reigns in a historic mirrored room with shimmering chandeliers.
“Life is full of surprises, and if you look closely, you will find inspiration and influence all around you. This is what we want our guests to feel when they visit us.”
Christopher Davidsen, Bocuse d’Argent World Champion Chef and Head Chef at Speilsalen — one of Britannia’s six restaurants.
Inspired by Paris, Lyon and New York’s Balthazar, the Britannia Brasserie provides a classic French menu along with an extensive selection of craft beers. Outfitted with table-top grills, Jonathan Grill specializes in Japanese, Korean and Norwegian fare in a casual setting. A little slice of heaven for oenophiles, the Vinbaren wine bar boasts a 10,000-bottle cellar. Its lounge, tasting room and bar offer tapas, charcuterie and cheeses.
Beautifully decorated with marble and crystal, the Britannia Bar has quickly become Trondheim’s must-visit cocktail bar and lounge. Delving into the hotel’s history, Britannia Bar’s head bartender, Øyvind Lindgjerdet created inspiring storybook-style signature cocktails to enhance the menu.
If a hotel has a beating heart, Britannia’s is the stunning glass-domed Palmehaven. First unveiled in 1918, Palmehaven has served as a treasured meeting place for aristocrats, politicians, artists, intellectuals, musicians and anyone desiring a touch of inspiration for centuries for more than 100 years. Hosting breakfast, lunch, brunch, afternoon tea and dinner, Palmehaven offers a true taste of Nordic flavor.
Did you know that on February 17, 2020 the Britannia host the Michelin star revelation gala dinner?
Body Care in the Britannia
Entering the Britannia spa and fitness center you’re met with a living wall of greenery. Instantly, you’re transported to a peaceful world of tranquility. The spa boasts six treatment rooms, a heated lap pool, sauna, steam room, ice bath, mineral pool, gym, infrared cabin and much more. Developed by a hand-picked team of spa and fitness professionals, Britannia Spa’s menu includes a range of massages, wraps and scrubs, facials, pedicure & manicure, gentlemen’s spa and a specially developed series of treatments for kids and teens.
Keep your fitness goals on track in the state-of-the-art fitness center outfitted with Life Fitness and Hammer Strength equipment. Yoga and Pilates classes are available every day, and personal trainers are on hand to assist with any questions or fitness tips you desire.
Inspiration from the Britannia Story
As fetching as the Britannia Hotel is, the story behind its rebirth provides unparalleled inspiration. Born in Trondheim in 1951, Odd Reitan set his sights on a dream at age 14—to own the Britannia Hotel. It was an unlikely venture for a teenage boy hailing from a working-class family.
Ultimately becoming a Norwegian financier and billionaire, Reitan bought the Britannia Hotel and poured his heart into her renovation. Always the “grande dame” of the North, the Britannia Hotel continues its reign with more sparkle than ever before. It seems in Trondheim dreams do come true!