Luxury hotel with stunning views and spa loved by royals | Europe | Travel

One rather unconventional royal wedding recently took place at a luxury hotel in Norway.

Princess Martha Louise of Norway tied the knot with American Shaman Durek Verrett at the Hotel Union Geiranger, a family-run hotel located amongst the beauty of the Norwegian fjords.

The original timber hotel was built in 1891 and has since been renovated several times. It now consists of 197 guest rooms (including 17 suites), numerous restaurants and bars, and a luxe spa.

All those staying at the hotel are able to make use of the spa’s indoor heated pool, children’s pool and heated outdoor therapy pool during their stay.

The Princess’s decision to marry at the hotel marked something of a break with tradition. Her first wedding, to the late Ari Behn had taken place at Nidaros Cathedral in 2002.

Martha Lousie’s brother Haakon, Crown Prince of Norway tied the knot with Mette-Marit Tjessem Høiby at Oslo Cathedral in 2001.

This same cathedral was also the location of the wedding of King Harald V (then Crown Prince) and Sonja Haraldsen back in 1968.

However, for her marriage to Durek, Martha Louise opted against a traditional Cathedral wedding, likely due to the couple’s rather unconventional spiritual beliefs.

Speaking to Hello! about their choice of location, the Princess said: “It’s one of my favourite places in the world. Ever since my parents brought me here for their silver wedding anniversary, I’ve loved it.”

And it’s not just Royals who love the hotel, with 394 excellent reviews on TripAdvisor, the Hotel Union is considered one the best hotels in the Geiranger region.

One impressed visitor wrote: “Hotel Union has the best view in town! The views from our room on the 5th floor were simply majestic.

“The bed was comfortable, the room clean, and the amenities were amazing. I wish I could have stayed longer to enjoy the spa or the pool. The food was delicious and they had such a variety that you could not eat it all!”

And another said: “Wonderful experience especially if you get a fjord view room. The SPA and swimming pool are also excellent with an external hot tub with breathtaking views. The restaurant and breakfast were also very good.

“There is a small classic automobile collection onsite which is worth a look with some impeccably restored cars that were used at the hotel in the past. A games room in the basement is a nice bonus to keep kids occupied.”

While a third added: “Beautiful hotel. The pools/spa area is an absolute must-do while in Geirganger. There is a car museum in the basement of the hotel. Clean rooms. Decent breakfast. My husband enjoyed his dinner at the restaurant.”