The incredibly sweet staff truly made me feel so welcome and everything, from the adorable welcome bottle of apple juice to the incredibly helpful tips to travel around Bergen, was truly special. It’s also the best spot to start a stroll around the narrow, cobblestoned alleys (or “smau”) of Bergen that is pretty much mandatory for the first-time traveler. Also, it is a perfect place to plunge into the history of Bergen.

As you might guess, the hotel is closely related to the history of Bergen, drawing on the rich heritage of the Grieg family and the historic backdrop that connects us to the traditions of Scottish hospitality. It’s not just another luxury hotel but has all of the above and more

I was impressed to learn that the hotel was originally built in 1876. That’s more than a century ago! It was built for Bergen’s largest bank and thus is known as “Banco Rotto”. I love being able to say that I’ve slept at a famous landmark in Bergen. It has it’s own unique style with distinctive bricks and an intriguing architectural style.

Once I was inside, I was blown away by the interior. It feels like you’ve just wandered into a real life fairytale. The grand room located on the main floor is designed with heavy granite walls and ionic colums in polished marble, making me think I’ve just walked into a chapter of Cinderella’s story. The hotel actually has an original part and a slightly newer architecture. The original part of the hotel, including all it’s decorative details, was designed by an architect called Herman Schirmer. The last extension of the hotel was in 1918 by a man called Schak Bull. You might recognize him as the person who drew Edvard Grieg’s residence called “Troldhaugen”. Architect Schak Bull was, coincidentally, Edvard Grieg’s cousin.

It’s safe to say that, because they’re closely related to Edvard Grieg, they want to bring you a unique experience. It’s classic, yet modern feeling really gave me a taste of what Edvard Grieg’s life would have been like, what his relationships were like and all in all just how his unique life story unfolded. The first floor of the hotel is filled with information about the life of Edvard Grieg, and it’s certainly worth your time to take a look at it.

The decor of the hotel is modern and lush. I love how the hotel incorporates plants and flowers into its atmosphere. The Opus XVI is such a relaxing and calming escape from a day roaming the city – just what any hotel should be!

On the first day, we got a chance to join the fjord cruise by Rodne. It lasted just a few hours but gave me so many feelings that will last forever!

I suggest adding a Fjord cruise to your bucket list – the contrasts of fjords in Norway are fascinating. In the blink of an eye, it can change from rough and cold to a sunny autumn day. It was sunny both days. Since Bergen has a reputation for a rainy city, we struck it lucky!

After walking around Bergen all day and stopping at some spots to take pictures, we were so excited to dive into our bed with comfortable white sheets and a plethora of pillows! I felt like I was sleeping on a cloud.

The Suite was spacious and cozy with LCD flat-screen TV, tablet for personal use, walk-in shower, Iron & ironing board (which is a really good feature coz I always have to ask for an iron even in luxury hotels), in-room Nespresso coffee machine and tea making facilities, heated bathroom floors and much more.

Even though my stay was short it felt like a home away from home. Next time you are visiting Bergen I highly suggest this gem of a hotel.

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