We really enjoyed our stay at the Hotel Gabelshus. We chose it because we knew that it provided half board (i.e. an evening meal) as standard. Eating out in Oslo can be expensive, and as we were there for a wedding, we wanted as little additional fuss as possible.
The hotel is slightly outside the centre, a couple of tram stops west of the National Theatre station, but it is easy to get to; National Theatre station itself has direct trains to the airport, as well as being on the Metro.
The area around the hotel is leafy, quiet, upmarket residential, with a number of embassies. The hotel itself is covered in creeper, which gives it a distinctive look.
Check-in was straightforward, and our room was on the fourth floor. It wasn't the largest, but it was nicely laid out, very clean, well equipped. It was unseasonably warm on our visit, and the cooling in the room was much appreciated. There was plenty of room for our suitcases, about 45cm of hanging space, and an ironing board and iron. The bathroom had plenty of room for toiletries etc.
But the real joy for us was the public areas, which meant that, in the evenings, we could enjoy reading or sitting, watching the world go by, either from the lovely terrace at the front of the hotel, or from one of the two dining areas, the library or the lounge. Tea, coffee, hot chocolate, chilled still or sparkling water were available 24/7 from the dining room. In the afternoon, they also provide cake and or waffles from 3pm until 5 pm.
The breakfast buffet provided lots of choice for meat-eaters and vegetarians, both cooked and cold choices - one of the best we've seen. The evening meal was a little more limited: a vegetarian soup, meat or fish main dish, and a selection of salads. On two evenings. there was also a hot vegetarian option, but this does not always seem to be the case. But it sufficed perfectly for our needs.
We didn't use the gymnasium, but it was well equipped, and there was also a sauna (advanced notice is required to use this).
Overall, we had a really nice stay and would happily return again. read more