Clarion Hotel Admiral - Bergen, Norway 

We stayed at this hotel on two separate occasions in late June, the first after disembarking from the coastal steamer and the second after returning from a few days in Balestrand. The only redeeming quality of the hotel is its proximity to most attractions in central Bergen. The hotel is currently under renovation and looks as if it has been for several months. Our first room had been renovated but was very small and had far too much furniture for the size of the room. Moving around the room was a serious challenge. This was a classic case of form over function . . . designed to look very modern but not very functional. Our second room was larger but except for the bathroom was in serious need of redecorating. The furnishings were something that you might find in a third rate motel. In both cases the mattresses were the softest that I have slept on in years and quite uncomfortable. Breakfast was not up to the standards experienced in other Norwegian hotels. The choice during our first stay was minimal, better the second time around. In both cases there were few staff so the tables were not cleared quickly and one had the impression that staff did not know what they were doing. (I was told that getting staff in full employment Norway is a real problem) There is only one computer in the lobby for checking email and it was not working during our visit. All-in-all, a disappointing stay and not a hotel that I can enthusiastically recommend.

We spent 2 nights at this hotel, within easy walking distance to everything. It is certainly worth paying for a superior room to guarantee a view of the beautiful Bergen harbour. In fact you get the impression the hotel sits on the water. O ur room was really lovely and very comfortable. You could even have a bath while watching the cruise liners or boats sail by. The staff were very friendly and helpful. Unfortunately the power points in our room didn't work, so we were moved to another newly refurbished room the next day. These rooms were a little sterile and not as nice as the traditional rooms, but still bright and breezy. Breakfast was included in our room rate and was exceptional. You had everything you could expect and much, much more. Free Internet was available in the lobby and in the business centre if you needed a printer. I would definitely stay at the Clarion on my next visit in this charming city.