Rustad Hotel, Sjusjøen

From the moment you step through the door of this timber-built hotel, you know you are going to have a very relaxing holiday. The typical Norwegian décor, wood cladding and great sense of tradition create a feeling of cosiness and intimacy, and this is perfectly complemented by the warm hospitality of your genial hosts, the Rustad family, whose personal attention makes you feel more like a house guest.

The well-appointed, comfortable twin and double-bedded rooms in the main hotel all have a shower, television, telephone and wifi, while hairdryers can be borrowed from reception.

The junior suites offer more space, including their own balcony, and, in addition to the standard in-room facilities listed above, are equipped with a minibar, hairdryer and kettle.

The five inviting, log-cabin-style lounges (two of which have an open fire) provide space to unwind after a day on the trails, and there are also two saunas (one for men, the other for women). A television room, a small sun terrace and a bar, plus facilities for table tennis and billiards, complete the picture.

The cosy, intimate restaurant looks out over the snow-clad fells and frozen lake. Unusually – but ideal after a day on the trails – the excellent three-course dinner (which is sometimes a set menu and on other evenings a buffet) is served at 6.30pm. Breakfast is a buffet featuring breads, cold meats, cheeses, jams, eggs and more, from which you can make up a packed lunch.