The Manshausen Resort in Norway’s Arctic Circle, off of the Lofoten Islands, is part 2 of our Norway’s Best Hotels and Airbnb series. You’ll see why this is Norway’s best luxury hotel, and foodies are in for a real treat.

The Manshausen Hotel, owned by Norway’s most prolific polar explorer, Borge Osland, is a masterclass in blending luxury, nature, and minimalist Scandi architecture and panoramic views. It had me drooling from the minute I stepped off the private boat that whisks you across the water to this secluded retreat. (This tiny 14 acre island is part of the Steigen Archipelago.) Almost every cabin is strategically perched over the water, with floor-to-ceiling windows that invite the outside in. The interiors – a chic, Scandinavian mix of functionality and comfort – provide a cozy retreat after a day of exploring the wilderness.

Any respectable foodie will love the hotel’s dining experience. Embracing a ‘farm-to-table’ ethos, the menu is a mix of food grown on the property, local produce, and an emphasis on fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is a sleek yet inviting space, and what you’ll experience there isn’t just a meal but a journey through Norway’s rich culinary heritage. The chefs are as innovative as they are friendly, eager to tell you about the origins of each dish, adding that rare personal touch.

Adventure-seekers and tranquility-hunters alike will find something here. From kayaking on clear Arctic waters to some seriously challenging hiking in the mountains around the resort, there’s tons for outdoor enthusiasts to choose from. If you want to relax, no problem… maybe wallow in the resort’s wood-fired hot tub (pro tip: book a time before you arrive, it’s popular), or take a dip in the sea and sprint to the resort’s sauna to shake off that ice-cube feeling.

Manshausen is not just a hotel; it’s a destination where luxury, adventure, and the magic of the Arctic converge, creating one of my all time favorite resort experiences.