Perched at the water’s edge amongst several pristine canals in the Tjuvholmen area of Oslo, The Thief Hotel is surrounded by some of the city’s newest and most fantastically designed buildings. A stone’s throw from the Astrup Fearnley Museum and central Oslo, The Thief couldn’t be poised any better to offer guests the perfect location for their stay. With an eye for design and as detail-oriented as can be, this hotel is surely Oslo’s best and the only option when choosing a luxury property in the city.
118 rooms make-up The Thief’s interior. Furnishings have been selected from the collections of: Antonio Citterio, Tom, Dixon, StokkeAustad, Bruno Rainaldi and Anne Haavind – making an exciting moment for design lovers and for those who appreciate good art. Arriving to the hotel, you feel as if you’ve been taken to a secret location only those “in the know” can understand. The glass and steel building blends with its surroundings, but you can easily pick out The Thief by its distinct sign and sculptures gracing the front entrance. Checking-in is a breeze and pleasant, as lovely blonde-haired representatives meet you to tell you more about the property, your stay and the amenities at the hotel. The impresario of the hotel, Mr. Dominic Gorham, is often seen at the front entrance conversing with guests or locals who frequent the hotel for its elegant bar and restaurants.
Immediately at check-in guests are given a small packet with the hotel’s “cool certified” recommendations of food, sights, shopping and more. For anyone interested in where to go and what to see now in Oslo, The Thief has its pulse on this information – which is yours for the taking. In room, you will find a space well-outfitted for even the most discerning traveler. Here you will see a king-sized bed from Hilding, floor to ceiling windows with balconies, a work station, large bathrooms with rainforest showers, 42-inch plasma televisions, wool blankets by Røros Tweed, robes and Nespresso machines. On request, you can have a Playstation brought-in or allergy-friendly pillows. Rooms are comfortable, to say the least, and put those who are, shall we say, environmentally sensitive, at ease.
Exploring the hotel leaves you excited to stay a while longer with offerings of fantastic dining and an incredible spa. The spa is stunning with a beautiful pool, experience showers, several types of saunas, five treatment rooms, separate VIP-treatment room for full makeovers, a complete beauty lounge, spa shop, gym and bar. You can see the Norwegian influence around you with the close ties to nature and offerings of fresh pressed juices and snacks as well. I could spend all day here.
Breakfast at The Thief is an experience of enjoying small plates from local purveyors. You will find a selection of homemade eggs, sausages, pancakes and breads as well as cheese, yogurt, jams and pastries, all made locally from ingredients found through nearby suppliers. Farm names are listed by butters – this is the level of detail. Outstanding. If you’re in the mood for more food after a day out on the town, you can return for lunch at FRU K, or snacks at the FoodBar. Any food option here is wonderful. I enjoyed drinks and snacks on the roof especially.
Service at The Thief is remarkable. The staff, despite being busy with a full house during my stay, was helpful, knowledgeable and willing to go above and beyond. This made an impression, and all the difference. As a place frequented by well-known people of importance, there is no real distinction or hierarchy. If you’re there, you’re important. This is the legacy of The Thief and the reason we felt the goodness in every detail and moment of our stay.