The ferry glides across the open sparkling water, moving further away from Drøbak’s contemporary Norwegian architecture. The islands are fast approaching. The row of enormous grey machine guns is startling at first as they peak out amongst the island’s grass banks. Yet, they are soon accepted as visitors lay their eyes on the Oscarsborg Hotel and Resort and catch their breath. Everyone on the boat takes in the thick fortress walls and historically aged bricks.

Thirty minutes from Oslo, the Oscarsborg Hotel and Resort can only be visited by boat from the nearest town Drøbak. The hotel dwells on the Kaholmen Islands within the beautiful Drøbak Sound Lake, offering 86 rooms and suites. While staying at the resort, guests will also discover several galleries, museums, outdoor hiking trails, and historical monuments.

The History of Oscarsborg

The Oscarsborg Hotel and Resort has a rich military background and is best known for sinking the German cruiser ship, the Blücher, in the Second World War during April 1940. The victory allowed King Haakon VII to leave Oslo and defend other parts of Norway. During the war, no other defeat had the same political or military significance for Norway. The enormous metallic machine gun was nicknamed Moses after the battle and can still be found within the fortress today, standing guard over the island’s waters.

The Minimalistic Interior Rooms & Suites

While the exterior architecture of Oscarsborg has a military style, the hotel has a beautiful contrast of interiors on the inside. One of the many rooms guests can stay in is the Deluxe Suite, located in the student Skaserna at Oscarsborg. The suite has a minimalistic interior style with shades of grey and white. Yet, it still has small features of colour like the turquoise blue cushions that decorate the king-size bed. The room’s minimal design draws guests to the incredible views of the sound between Oscarsborg and one of the nearby islands, Håøya. The natural beauty of the harbours clear blue water, and surrounding greenery entices guests to spend their whole visit exploring the hotel islands.

The Surrounding Museums & Hotel Activities

During their stay, guests can visit museums and galleries such as the Oscarsborg Fortress Museum, one of Norway’s most significant historical fortifications. The Kaholmen Islands have been used as a military fortress since the 1640’s due to its strategic position and advantage over any incoming intruders. The museum’s various exhibitions present the different stages within the historical timeline of the fortress and the Coast Artillery, with emphasis on the Second World War. The primary exhibitions are located in the eastern part of the main fort.

The hotel also offers a range of activities to keep guests amused, including a murder mystery event. Friends and family can experience an authentic Agatha Christie style evening and become one of the many characters in her beloved novels. All participants receive their own character and role to help them find clues and solve tasks during the evening. Guests not only receive sensitive information but are also awarded money to help them find the murderer. The experience is about discovering the killer and trying to become the wealthiest person when the game finishes.

Dinning At Oscarsborg

Guests have all their meals in the Oscarsborg dining hall. The juxtaposing décor of light beechwood, black walls, and yellow-tinted lighting gives the interior a magical feel, making guests feel welcome and comfortable while dining. Each meal is laid out in a buffet-style, offering local and international cuisine. The dining hall’s best feature is the terrace, and when open in the summer season, guests are invited to enjoy their food while basking in the sunshine.

The Oscarsborg Hotel and Fortress offers a stay that is full of monumental history and a chance to explore Norway’s natural beauty through hiking trails and the island’s sandy beaches. This hotel is designed for guests who enjoy a combination of relaxation through nature and learning about a country’s recent past.