Gamlehaugen Mansion

Visit the official holiday residence of the Norwegian Royal Family in Bergen

Gamlehaugen sits on the outskirts of Bergen, by Lake Nordås. The white manor, complete with grand turrets and elegant gardens, was built in the early 20th century. It now serves as the official residence of Norway’s royal family in Bergen.

The estate dates from 1912, commissioned by industrialist Christian Michelsen, a key figure in Norway’s independence movement. He later became Norway’s first prime minister after the 1905 separation from Sweden. Following his death, the home was purchased by the state.

Now, the entire first floor of Gamlehaugen is open to the public as a museum devoted to the memory of Christian Michelsen, and the interiors have been lovingly preserved as it was at the time of his death.

Visitors can explore the surrounding gardens, stroll along tree-lined paths, and enjoy views across the lake. The mansion itself is occasionally open for guided tours, where interiors showcase period furniture, art and décor, giving a sense of life in Norway’s elite circles a century ago.

There are limited opening hours through the summer, so check online before your visit for more up-to-date times.