We used the travel agency UpNorway for the land portion of our Norwegian adventure. I was drawn to the company partly because of one of the amazing cabins they featured on one of their suggested itineraries. Funny enough, the cabin is the one place we didn’t stay, but all of the accommodations were outstanding.

Most stylish was Amerikalinjen in Oslo. It’s a classic old hotel that was part of the America Line cruise ships used by many Norwegians to travel to America. The hotel retained its historic details, but added modern amenities. The bed was comfortable, the shower was great (and with a full enclosure, unlike many European hotels), and the breakfast was bountiful. Its location right across from the train station and near the Munch Museum and Opera House made it very convenient. The only downside was our room location- it faced the street so we heard the tram all night. If our room faced the fjord or courtyard it would have been a perfect stay.

Coziest was 29|2 Aurland. Cozy is a positive spin on the low doorways and slanted ceiling in the old fisherman’s cabin that was turned into charming lodgings. After I whacked my head a couple of times entering the room I learned to stay low. But cuddling up under the slanted ceiling amidst the copious pillows and fluffy comforter, I did feel that famous Norwegian “kos.” Only two rooms are this cramped – I mean “cozy” – so it’s possible to enjoy this delightful inn without worrying about getting a concussion.

All meals were included, and in a trip filled with gourmet dining, these meals might have been my favorites. All of the food is local and often organic. The young chef, the owner’s son, is self-trained and creative. The combination of fresh ingredients and a skillful chef made for superb dining.

Most comfortable/practical was the Opus XVI in Bergen. The room and bathroom were both fairly large so we could spread out; there was a coffee maker (not available in 29|2 Aurland); the room darkening curtains worked great, and although the room faced the city it was on a pedestrian-only plaza so it was quiet.

The hotel is rich with atmosphere, reflecting its homage to composer Edvard Krieg. We aren’t big classical music fans, but I always admire a nod to history. The hotel was steps from the harbor and lots of cafes and restaurants, so it was very convenient for our one-night stay. (And one night in Bergen was more than enough for us.)

Best view was at Knutholmen in Kalvag. As our driver pulled into the cluster of wooden buildings surrounding the harbor, he parked in front of one that faced a parking lot. Please, don’t let that be our room I silently prayed. Happily, it wasn’t. We faced the harbor and spent two tranquil mornings and evenings taking in the view.

The room itself was in a new building meant to evoke an old fisherman’s cabin. In this case, I enjoyed the modern conveniences of a high ceiling, kettle for coffee or tea and enclosed shower, while the room still maintained a traditional feel.

Food was included here as well, and although the dinners was good, the timing was off. Our first dinner was at about 9 pm, after a four-hour ferry ride from Bergen. That’s a bit late for a three-course meal. The second dinner was a seafood feast. But after eating the crab, cod and pollock that we caught on our fishing trip, this was also just too much.

Most elegant was Union Oye, another historic hotel in the tiny village of Oye. The hotel has hosted royalty, explorers, authors and travelers since 1891. Each room is named for one such notable and is drenched in period design. Our room, Queen Maud, was once again on the small side. I assume this was due to our budget because many rooms were very spacious, with sitting areas and canopy beds. However, that only encouraged us to make use of the many other rooms and spaces at the hotel – the patio and gardens, the bar, library, parlor and game room. (Snooker anyone?)

The food was delicious, and the service was impeccable. Though once again, we were disappointed not to have a coffee maker or kettle in the room. In this case, I assume it’s for safety reasons, since none of the rooms offered this amenity. (Or is it because they prefer to offer coffee service at $15 per person? We just went down early and asked politely for some coffee.)

Last was our cabin aboard the Havila Polaris. We originally had a cabin with just a porthole, but upon boarding we upgraded to one with a balcony. YOLO, right?

The room is very comfortable and extremely well executed. We have plenty of room for our belongings, and the cabin is situated for maximum scenery exposure with the bed and chairs facing the floor to ceiling sliding windows. Did I mention we like to sit with our favorite beverage and admire the view? Havila definitely delivers.