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Sorrisniva

Sorrisniva

Northern Norway, Norway

Sorrisniva

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With a name that means ‘running water’, it’s no surprise that Sorrisniva is perched on the bank of a river, making it ideal for exploring the region’s landscapes just outside the city of Alta. All the rooms and suites have enormous windows that overlook the Alta River, as well as skylights that let you take in the northern lights (if you’re lucky).

The mid-century modern design reflects Scandinavian style, with an emphasis on wide horizontal lines, rich earth tones, and plenty of interesting textures, both inside and out. Pops of royal blue and harvest orange complement the natural beauty outside the windows.

Sorrisniva’s Maku Restaurant overlooks the river and serves a menu that focuses on the gastronomic possibilities of Arctic cuisine, with locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. For a more casual meal, Lavvu Restaurant also makes the most of regional cuisine in a relaxed setting that was designed to emulate a Sami tent.

Every winter, the hotel hosts remarkable artist-designed ice sculptures, which you can explore. Additionally, the hotel can arrange a wide array of activities to help you make the most of the remote location.

OUR OPINION:

One of the most luxurious options in Norway’s Arctic, Sorrisniva makes a great base for exploring the landscapes around Alta. We love the views, especially from the skylights, which can be used for aurora spotting from the comfort of your own room.

OUR RATING: Deluxe

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TrustScore 4.8 | 3960 reviews

Photos of Sorrisniva

  • Lobby, Sorrisniva
    Lobby, Sorrisniva
  • River room, Sorrisniva
    River room, Sorrisniva
  • Aerial View, Sorrisniva
    Aerial View, Sorrisniva
  • Winter Aerial View, Sorrisniva
    Winter Aerial View, Sorrisniva
  • King Suite, Sorrisniva
    King Suite, Sorrisniva
  • River room, Sorrisniva
    River room, Sorrisniva

Rooms

All the rooms and suites offer private terraces so you can enjoy the river views outside. Additionally, the hotel’s large windows are designed to make the most of the surrounding landscape, while skylights provide views of the northern lights (when they’re present).

Inside, the decor complements the Arctic wilderness, with warm wooden walls and floors, plush velvet and wool textiles, and a palette of deep blue, sunset orange, and warm gold. The furniture recalls the sleek lines of mid-century modern designers, and playful lighting brings a sense of whimsy to the rooms.

Bathrooms are generously sized, with stone floors, walk-in showers, and backlit mirrors that evoke the midnight sun.

Location

Though it’s only a 30-minute drive from Alta Airport, Sorrisniva feels very remote. The Arctic landscape unfurls around it, with a rushing (or frozen) river in the front and a steep mountain covered in evergreens behind it.

Food and drink

  • Maku Restaurant serves an adventurous menu featuring local ingredients.
  • Lavvu Restaruant offers casual fare in a building designed to look like a Sami tent.

Families

  • Suites can sleep families with up to two children.

Accessibility

With no stairs, walk-in showers, and easy access from the parking area, Sorrisniva makes a good option for those who might have mobility issues.

Location & places nearby

Places & hotels on the map

    Alternative places to stay nearby

    Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favourite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can't be bettered.

    Experiences while staying here

    The following activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences of the area where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can also suggest outdoor pursuits and activities, such as cooking classes, that will introduce you to the traditions of the area's inhabitants.

    • Snowmobiling across Finnmarksvidda plateau
      Finnmarksvidda, Alta Region

      Snowmobiling across Finnmarksvidda plateau

      Snowmobiling across Finnmarksvidda plateau

      Home to Arctic hares, moose, and herds of reindeer, the Finnmarksvidda plateau is a landscape few ever glimpse. This snowmobiling trip across the snowy plains gives you a chance to explore the wilderness first-hand.

      View details

    Northern Norway and nearby places