The Froland farmhouse is the best of charmingly traditional Norwegian building. Nestled in a private little valley with its own lake, amongst a hand full of other valley residents, it immediately gives the feeling of having “escaped” from the rest of the world.

There was a fireplace in the living room and a wood heated stove in the kitchen with a good supply of wood in a barn beside the house. Since we were there in December, the fireplace was put to good use warming the bottom floor nicely. With bedrooms upstairs and below the main floor, there was plenty of room. The kitchen was modern and well equipped.

In addition to feeling that we received great value for money, the general atmosphere of both the farmhouse and surrounding area was an extra quality that should not be undervalued. With walking trails all around you get the feeling of being further into the countryside than you actually are. Froland, a modern thriving little community has good grocery shopping and Arendal (10 minute drive) has a good selection of restaurants, movies and nightlife.

The owners were friendly, interesting and intelligent in their interactions with us. They respected our privacy while being cheerfully available to answer our questions.

Our experience in Froland left us with a distinctly positive feeling and a desire to return.