For over 30 years, his job had been to offer spectacular nature-based experiences in Voss, Norway. Now, he was on the brink of unveiling a unique landscape hotel that had the potential to put Voss on the world map.
On June 16, the newly designed Elva Hotel in Voss opened its doors. Positioned right on the river bank, the hotel boasted a breathtaking location, combining stunning scenery with convenient access to thrilling activities like rafting, climbing, and extreme sports.
Solbakk held the esteemed positions of CEO at Voss Active and General Manager of Voss Rafting Centre. He was also the visionary behind the remarkable Elva Hotel in Skulestadmoen. Alongside his colleagues, he had dedicated over three decades to fostering innovation and promoting vitality in the town through ventures such as Voss Rafting Centre, the High Rope & Zipline Park, the Ekstremsportveko extreme sport festival, and parasailing. However, running a hotel had never been part of his initial plans.
“We felt a deep calling to develop this site, allowing more people to relish in the splendors of this magnificent place. We had always vowed to avoid venturing into accommodation, as we cherished the ability to return home in the evenings and not be consumed by work around the clock!” Solbakk explained.
A few years ago, Frode and his Voss Active companions had sat gazing across the area outside the rafting center, near the mouth of Lundarvatnet lake.
“It struck us how extraordinarily beautiful this area was. We had taken great care to enhance its appeal, tidying up the surroundings, trimming trees, and creating a small park. We simply believed that this place was too remarkable to be used solely for private residences or conventional businesses and industries. We felt an undeniable calling to develop it further, enabling more people to bask in the wonders of this extraordinary place.”
At the same time, Solbakk and Voss Active found themselves yearning for a change from their rafting and climbing endeavors, seeking a new venture to ensure a thriving financial outcome.
“We deliberated over various types of accommodations, and it became apparent that Voss already offered most of them, ranging from camping sites and hostels to historic and large modern hotels. The only missing piece in Voss was a small, design-oriented boutique hotel that could provide an exclusive and unparalleled experience. We also recognized the growing international demand for such unique accommodations,” Solbakk explained.
Solbakk cited Juvet Landskapshotell in Valldal as a prime example of the type of hotel they aimed to create, while also emphasizing their desire to add their own distinct touch to Elva:
“Many of the exclusive landscape hotels are situated in remote natural areas, far from any conveniences. We wanted to carve out our own niche by blending the exclusive nature experience with thrilling activities like rafting, the High Rope & Zipline Park, and partnering with organizations such as the skydiving club VossVind and the Ekstremsportveko festival. We believe this combination sets us apart on a global scale, and we have already received visits from numerous enthusiastic international travel agents who echo the same sentiment.”
Taking charge as the hotel manager, Jeanette Lillås had previously managed the renowned Voss Bryggeri brewery and now eagerly embraced new challenges at Elva Hotel.
“Every time I step foot into the hotel, I’m astounded, and the view from the hotel rooms gives you the sensation of soaring above the water! It’s truly inspiring to be part of something so extraordinary. With just fourteen rooms and forty-two beds, this is an intimate and exclusive hotel, allowing us ample time to provide impeccable follow-up and service. I thoroughly enjoy engaging with people, going above and beyond, and cultivating a pleasant atmosphere,” Lillås expressed.
In addition to the stunning scenery and thrilling activities, the hotel placed significant emphasis on fine dining, utilizing locally sourced ingredients, which perfectly aligned with Lillås’ passion.
“For me, collaborating closely with local producers has always been essential. At Elva Hotel, we offer exquisite dining experiences, utilizing ingredients sourced locally and from the surrounding region whenever possible. During weekdays, we provide a three-course dinner, and on weekends, guests can indulge in a seven-course tasting menu,” Lillås elaborated.