Kristiansand Feriesenter

The hotel operates as a large holiday park or campsite, with its primary appeal being its extensive range of family-friendly outdoor activities and direct water access. It's particularly well-suited for families with young children seeking an active and engaging holiday experience, as well as travelers looking for a good value, basic accommodation for a short stay. Guests frequently highlight the abundance of recreational options and the convenient proximity to a beach and swimming areas. While the setting is generally praised for its natural beauty, some guests note issues with noise levels, particularly from children playing late into the evening. To ensure a more comfortable stay, it is advisable to inquire about room locations away from high-traffic play areas and to be prepared for potential additional charges for amenities like bed linen and electricity, which are not always included in the initial booking price.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a wide array of recreational facilities designed primarily for families and children, making it a lively destination. Guests can enjoy various activities such as a ping pong table, pool table, mini golf, and a large bouncy pad, which are popular among younger visitors. The property also features extensive playground areas. Its location right on the water provides excellent swimming options and access to a beach, though some guests noted issues with seaweed. While the focus is on outdoor fun, some accommodations include a basic kitchenette or access to shared kitchen equipment, which can be convenient for self-catering. However, specific details about amenities like Wi-Fi or TV functionality were less consistently highlighted, with one guest mentioning a non-working TV remote.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is mixed, with many describing the accommodations as small rooms and basic but generally sufficient for sleeping. The beds are frequently praised for being comfortable, ensuring a good night's rest. However, several guests reported issues with the overall cleanliness of the rooms, mentioning instances of hair in the shower and generally poor cleaning. The bathrooms are often described as small and sometimes cold, with one review noting a hole in the toilet door. Noise is a significant concern for many, with complaints about noise levels from other rooms, slamming doors, and children playing outside late into the evening. Some rooms also suffered from poor lighting and worn-out furnishings, including broken or damaged trim. A recurring point of contention is the lack of sheets provided, often requiring an additional purchase.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel provides on-site dining options, which are particularly important given the limited availability of other eating establishments nearby. Guests have access to a cafe and a reception area that sells fresh baked goods and kiosk items, offering convenient choices for snacks and light meals. While some guests found the food quality to be good, others experienced issues with menu availability, such as missing ingredients like chips or salsa, and noted long wait times for orders like pizza. There is no traditional breakfast buffet offered, and the dining experience is more akin to casual street food or quick-service options. This means guests often rely on the hotel's offerings, making the consistency of service and menu items a key factor in their experience.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly praised coastal location, offering beautiful views and direct beach access with various swimming options. It is conveniently situated a short drive from Kristiansand, making it accessible for those exploring the region. Key attractions like Dyreparken (Kristiansand Zoo and Amusement Park) and Sørlands senteret (a shopping center) are also within easy reach. While the natural setting is a major draw, some guests found the road leading to the campsite to be narrow, and the property itself was occasionally described as difficult to find due to poor signage. The hotel's proximity to the ferry terminal is a plus for some travelers. As a large holiday park, it implicitly offers on-site parking for caravans and cars, though specific details about parking fees or availability were not consistently highlighted.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receive positive feedback, with many guests describing them as friendly and helpful. Reviewers appreciate the welcoming demeanor of the team, contributing to a pleasant overall experience. The service is often highlighted as good, indicating that staff are attentive to guest needs and willing to assist with inquiries. While the majority of interactions are positive, a few guests noted that staff could be somewhat rigid regarding certain rules, particularly concerning check-in procedures or payment requirements upon arrival. Despite these minor points, the prevailing sentiment is that the staff are accommodating and contribute positively to the atmosphere of the holiday park, ensuring guests feel supported during their stay and can navigate the various amenities and activities available on the property.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several mandatory charges that are not always clearly communicated upfront, leading to some frustration. A significant point of contention is the electricity fees, which are charged per day and can accumulate, even if minimal power is used. Similarly, linen rental for sheets and towels is often an obligatory payment, surprising guests who expected these to be included or who wished to bring their own. The hotel operates on a self-catering model, meaning there is no breakfast buffet, and guests are expected to manage their own meals, often relying on the on-site cafe or bringing supplies. The property is described as a former folk high school that rents out rooms and campsites during the summer, which explains its basic yet functional setup. It is also noted that having a car is highly recommended for convenience due to the property's location and the limited public transport options.