Hotel Review: Amanstavanger, Norway

Mr. Harper preparing to rappel down to his Fjord View Suite.

We've just returned from Amanstavanger, Amanresorts' extraordinary new property in Stavanger, Norway, and can only say that Mr. Zecha has clearly outdone himself. Eight spacious Fjord View Suites, carved into a sheer granite cliff face, afford stunning views of the soaring glacial valley between Stavanger and Haugesund. After a quick rappel down to our suite from the summit of Prekestolen (Pulpit Rock), we toasted our lofty new environs with a bracing bowl of Fiskesuppe (fish soup) and a healthy dram of aquavit. Our hostess Alfgerd was the picture of hospitality as she clambered up and down the cliff face bearing room service trays and a broad Nordic grin. The decor consisted of minimalist Asian hardwood furniture with the occasional Laplandic flourish. The bathroom, unfortunately, was a bit dark.

Editor's Note: April Fools!