The Well
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Check Availability on Booking.comView the official listing on the MICHELIN Guide.
Hotel Details
Location
Sofiemyr
Norway, Europe
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Key Highlights
- ✓Guests appreciate the variety and quality of the food, including excellent vegan and vegetarian options.
Expert Review: The Well
The Well, a Michelin Key Selected property in Sofiemyr, Norway, stands out as a luxurious and comprehensive wellness retreat, consistently garnering high praise for its extensive spa facilities, serene forest setting, and dedication to guest well-being. It has been recognized as one of the Luxury Lifestyle Awards' TOP 100 Spas of the World for 2024.
Overall Rating & Sentiment
The overall sentiment for The Well is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing it as "amazing," "perfect in every way," and "beautiful." On Booking.com, it holds a "wonderful" rating of 9.0 based on over 1,025 reviews, with high scores for cleanliness, facilities, and comfort. The hotel is considered a "transformative experience" and a "sanctuary of relaxation," emphasizing a digital detox philosophy.
Key Highlights
Guests consistently laud The Well for its unparalleled spa and wellness offerings, which are among the largest in Northern Europe, spanning approximately 10,500 square meters. The spa boasts 10 to 11 different pools, including indoor and outdoor options, a Japanese Onsen pool on the rooftop with scenic views, and an impressive 13 to 15 saunas and steam baths, alongside a Japanese bathhouse and a Turkish hammam. Daily themed infusions and rituals, such as Aufguss ceremonies, further enhance the experience. The hotel maintains an adults-only (18+) policy, ensuring a tranquil environment. The "natural nudity" policy in saunas and steam baths, while an initial adjustment for some, is often found to be liberating by guests, with swimwear being optional in pools and coverings available.
Beyond the spa, the hotel's exceptional architecture and Norway's largest private art collection, featuring works by artists like Herb Ritts and Robert Mapplethorpe, are significant draws. Its location within a pine forest contributes to a serene and remote ambiance, complemented by a sculpture forest and hiking trails.
Room Quality
The Well offers 104 luxurious hotel rooms and suites, designed with a quiet, simple, and Scandinavian style. Rooms are "super cozy," "modern and relaxing," and decorated in forest-inspired hues. They feature parquet floors, comfortable Wonderland beds, Høie linens, and modern bathrooms with walk-in showers. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide natural light and forest views. While the spa encourages a digital detox, rooms are equipped with Marshall speakers and Nespresso machines. Amenities also include air conditioning, a minibar, electric kettle, and free WiFi.
Dining Experience
The Well provides a diverse culinary experience with three to four on-site restaurants.
- MORI offers Asian fusion cuisine in a fine-dining setting, with a menu designed for sharing and blending Asian and Scandinavian flavors. Guests praise the "amazing quality of food and wine" and the availability of a seven-course tasting menu.
- Brasseriet serves French-inspired cuisine and hosts the breakfast buffet in a cozy, modern atmosphere. Breakfast is consistently described as "fantastic" and "outstanding" with generous portions. Hotel guests can comfortably enjoy breakfast in their bathrobes.
- The Naturli'® Wellness Lounge, located within the spa area, focuses on healthy and sustainable dishes, offering a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan snacks for lunch and dinner.
- A Library Bar is also available for drinks and relaxation.
Guests appreciate the variety and quality of the food, including excellent vegan and vegetarian options.
Service & Staff
The service at The Well is frequently highlighted as exceptional. Guests describe the staff as "dedicated," "friendly and welcoming," and ensuring every guest feels special. The staff are seen as "artisans of wellness, weaving genuine care into every interaction," with attention to detail that enhances the guest experience. Many guests noted an "amazing code of respect amongst guests and hotel staff."
Location & Accessibility
The Well is situated in Sofiemyr, a quaint village nestled in a serene pine forest, providing a pleasingly remote and tranquil atmosphere just a 15-minute drive south of Oslo. This location offers a harmonious blend of nature and urban accessibility.
The hotel is well-connected by public transport, with buses departing from Oslo Central Station (Oslo S) every ten minutes on weekdays, and the Granholtet stop conveniently located right next to The Well. Travel from Oslo Airport takes approximately 45-50 minutes by car or taxi, with fixed-price taxi services available. On-site parking is available for a fee. The proximity to the Oslofjord also allows for easy access to activities and island excursions.
Value & Pricing
While The Well offers a luxurious experience, guests generally rate its "value for money" at 8.8, suggesting they find it to be worth the cost. Room rates can start from approximately $125 USD for a double room with breakfast and spa access for one night, as seen in some offers. As a Michelin Key Selected property, it is recognized for offering exceptional stays, where inspectors consider aspects like value for money. Booking directly through the MICHELIN Guide may offer guaranteed best prices.
Common Complaints
One common aspect that guests may need to adjust to is the "natural nudity" policy in certain spa areas, specifically saunas and steam baths. While optional in pools and with coverings available, it can be a new experience for some visitors, though many ultimately find it freeing. A guest noted feeling somewhat out of place as a solo traveler in pools dominated by couples. It's important to note that any negative employee reviews found during research pertain to a different "The Well" location (likely in NYC) and do not reflect guest experiences at The Well, Sofiemyr, Norway.
