Inside Britannia Hotel Trondheim, The World’s Most Northerly Grand Dame

Arriving quite late following my journey from London, the warm welcome at reception immediately dissolved any travel fatigue. Exceptional hospitality commenced the moment I stepped inside, setting a reassuringly high standard for the days ahead. David from the front desk thoughtfully escorted me upstairs, effortlessly managing my luggage while providing a comprehensive overview of the property. His genuine enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge regarding the hotel’s intricate history made this late-night check-in wonderfully engaging. Such meticulous attention to detail ensures guests feel entirely looked after from the very first interaction.

Residing on the fifth floor of the historic wing, the magnificent Colonialmajoren Suite has been uniquely designed to the highest standards. Spanning an impressive footprint, the space features a grand seating area, a dedicated ‘glam’ room, and elegant wardrobes. British design influence shines brightly through exquisite Fromental wallpaper and stunning lighting fixtures from Heathfield & Co. Creating the ultimate sanctuary for rest, the bedroom boasts a handcrafted Hästens mattress dressed in breathable Norvegr down duvets.

Bathing within this signature suite elevates the daily routine to an art form. Anchoring the spectacular Carrara marble bathroom is a gold-plated, freestanding Catchpole & Rye bathtub, handcrafted in Kent, England, The UK. A separate rainfall shower and secondary guest washroom ensure absolute convenience during your stay. Turndown service arrives as a standard luxury, perfectly preparing the serene space for a restorative night’s sleep.

Morning rituals find their ultimate expression within the majestic surroundings of Palmehaven, built originally in 1918. Serving what is widely considered Norway’s finest breakfast, this leafy, oasis operates as the beating heart of the hotel. Colossal granite columns and a meticulously restored stone floor create a breathtaking environment for starting the day. Quality takes absolute precedence over quantity across the elegantly presented buffet, showcasing premium meats and cheeses from award-winning local producers. Freshly prepared warm dishes provide a comforting, personalised touch alongside barista-crafted coffee and vibrant açai berry bowls.

Evening libations are elevated to high art inside the timelessly sophisticated Britannia Bar. Serving the history of Trondheim in a glass, the menu sets an entirely new standard for cocktail craftsmanship. Executive Bar Manager Øyvind Lindgjerdet has curated a brilliant selection of signature drinks inspired by unique portraits and regional heritage. He was exceptionally kind in helping me select a bespoke creation perfectly suited to the late-evening mood. Enjoying these artistic concoctions within such a luxurious, deeply comfortable setting proves utterly captivating for any discerning spirits enthusiast.

Gastronomic brilliance awaits at Speilsalen, Britannia’s crown jewel and Michelin-starred dining destination. Securing a seat at the intimate Chef’s Table provided a front-row view of culinary theatre at its absolute finest. The 12-course Grand Symphony tasting menu is deeply rooted in the magnificent produce of the surrounding Trøndelag region. Watching the kitchen operate with such quiet precision while assembling intricate plates was genuinely mesmerising. Each meticulously crafted course delivered profound flavour and structural elegance, cementing the restaurant as a world-class epicurean sanctuary. You can read more about my dining experience in details here

Descending into the beautifully designed Britannia Spa reveals a modern, elegant oasis of pure tranquillity. The facilities are truly exceptional, encouraging guests to embrace an unhurried, restorative morning. A heated 12.5-metre lap pool serves as the calming centrepiece, flanked by a soothing sauna and an invigorating cold plunge. Spending time within the steam room and infrared cabin gently melted away the lingering tension of international transit. Embracing the same exceptional service standards found throughout the hotel, this wellness centre delivers an unparalleled environment for physical and mental rejuvenation.

Frequent travel inevitably takes its toll, making the Britannia Signature Hot Stone Back Massage an absolute necessity. This deeply therapeutic treatment combines tailored massage techniques with smooth stones heated to a precise 50-60 degrees Celsius. The penetrating warmth rapidly loosens tight muscles, softening stiff joints and overworked tendons across the back, neck, and shoulders. Targeted pressure expertly alleviated the persistent aches accumulated from long hours at a desk and cramped aircraft cabins. Leaving the treatment room, I felt profoundly restored, completely rid of lingering stress and tension.

Concluding the weekend, the venerable palm-lined ballroom hosts a remarkably generous Sunday Buffet. This burgeoning Trondheim tradition invites guests to gather around a leisurely, abundant table filled with exquisite seasonal flavours. Talented chefs prepare a stunning array of hot and cold dishes, featuring crisp salads, expertly roasted meats, and vibrant vegetable accompaniments. Ensuring a spectacular finale, Britannia’s pastry team constructs an irresistible dessert table overflowing with handcrafted cakes and delicate sweet treats. It is the perfect, indulgent prelude to a relaxing Sunday evening in the city.

For those mornings that demand absolute privacy, the in-room dining service provides exceptional comfort. Enjoying a leisurely breakfast within the elegant confines of the Colonialmajoren Suite’s living room felt wonderfully decadent. Beautifully arranged trays bearing fresh pastries, rich coffee, and delicate egg dishes transformed a quiet morning into a private feast. Watching the city awaken through the historic 1897 windows while savouring flawlessly executed cuisine offers a rare moment of serene isolation. It remains the ultimate luxury for travellers seeking a slow, unhurried start to my day.

Cultural exploration requires barely any effort, thanks to the recent opening of PoMo right across the street. Set within Trondheim’s beautifully restored former post office, this striking new museum champions modern and contemporary art. Wandering through the galleries, I encountered Catherine Opie’s thought-provoking exhibition, Mountains Don’t Know Their Names. Adjacent rooms showcased Ken Price’s magnificent ceramic-sculpture presentation, Alien Terrain, adding brilliant visual texture to the visit. Having such profound artistic inspiration located mere footsteps from the hotel lobby greatly enhances the overall destination experience.