Eilert Smith Hotel: A Boutique Retreat in the Heart of Stavanger

Smack in the middle of Stavanger, the Eilert Smith Hotel offers a rich history, luxurious accommodations, Michelin-starred dining, and an unforgettable chance to escape into comfort and luxury.

Nestled on the southwestern coast of Norway, Stavanger has, over time, evolved from a sleepy coastal town into a thriving metropolis. Known for its picturesque wooden houses, rich maritime heritage, and brilliant culinary scene, the city has something for everyone. Should you, however, want to enjoy and explore the city through an entirely exclusive and luxurious lens, look to the Eilert Smith Hotel.

“The Eilert Smith Hotel is a boutique hotel in Stavanger, named after the local architect, Eilert Smith, who drew the building in 1937,” says hotel director Stina Karlsson.

With just 12 rooms and suites, the hotel focuses on providing a personalised and intimate experience. Each room is thoughtfully designed, offering both style and comfort while ensuring guests feel at home. The interior celebrates both local heritage and modern Scandinavian minimalism with comfort, where the rooms are filled with luxurious amenities, bespoke furniture, and local artwork, creating a welcoming and elegant atmosphere.

“A key feature here is the high level of service. With 12 employees working across our 12 rooms, we offer personalised attention to each guest,” says Karlsson.

As a part of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the Eilert Smith Hotel is more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination in itself.

Small, local, and of world-class quality

Originally designed in 1937 by local architect Eilert Smith, the building was initially constructed to house a warehouse and store for Felleskjøpet Rogaland, a company catering to the agricultural needs of the region. However, the local couple Signe Anne and Kristoffer Stensrud saw potential in this historical space and began the transformation into what is now the Eilert Smith Hotel.

After a soft opening in 2019 with restaurant RE-NAA moving in, everything was finalised in May 2020; the hotel now retains the building’s architectural integrity while offering a fresh, modern experience for today’s travellers.

“Despite the unintentional soft start that came with the pandemic, we’ve had a great journey and have welcomed visitors from all over the world. Most of our guests come from abroad, particularly the United States,” says Karlsson.

Stavanger’s unique status as both a global business hub and a cosy, historic coastal town makes it a great destination for both corporate travellers and those seeking a quiet getaway. Eilert Smith Hotel fits seamlessly into this dynamic, offering a personal, curated experience for its guests.

Exclusive experiences and local delights

One of the standout features of Eilert Smith Hotel is its Michelin-starred restaurant, RE-NAA. Led by celebrated Chef Sven Erik Renaa, RE-NAA holds three Michelin stars, placing it among an elite group of restaurants worldwide.

“The culinary team creates a menu that reflects the bounty of the surrounding region, with dishes featuring fresh seafood from the nearby fjords, locally sourced vegetables, and wild game from the surrounding mountains,” says Karlsson

The team’s commitment to showcasing local ingredients and their dedication to excellence are reflected in every course, making RE-NAA a true gem for food lovers and a destination in itself.

Beyond its luxury accommodations and world-class dining, the Eilert Smith Hotel offers a range of exclusive, bespoke experiences for guests.

“Eilert Smith Hotel caters to guests with interests from bucket list hiking trips to once-in-a-lifetime Michelin-star dining. With a staff well-versed in the best Stavanger has to offer, your trip will be curated with activities and experiences that will be absolutely unforgettable,” says Karlsson.

Whether it’s a private boat trip on the fjords, a day of scallop diving, or a foraging tour of the local flora, the hotel seeks to help create unforgettable memories. These activities offer guests the chance to connect with the natural beauty of the Stavanger region, which blends stunning fjords, lush forests, and rugged mountains.

“Stavanger is undoubtedly the hidden gem of Norway. With pristine beaches, magnificent fjords and world-class dining all within a quick drive, this small coastal city caters to all interests. With a staff well-versed in the best Stavanger has to offer, your trip will be curated with activities and experiences that will be absolutely unforgettable.”

Web: www.eilertsmith.no
Facebook: Eilert Smith Hotel
Instagram: @eilertsmithhotel