Varangertunet is a family-run guesthouse in Varanger, more specifically Jakobselv, Finnmark, Norway. We started up in 2016 with the goal of becoming your home in Varanger.
After 25 years as a teacher, Jan-Eilif decided it was time for a change. He wanted to create a lifestyle where he could combine work with his hobbies. This became Varangertunet, a place where he can share his interest in nature, rivers and the history of Varanger with people who have a passion for these things.
At the top of the Jakobselv valley, three houses were built in 1976 on a farmstead.
The houses stood empty for many years before we bought the property in December 2015. A desire for a lifestyle change and a dream of creating activity and life on the farm led to the establishment of Varangertunet in 2016.
The buildings were old and worn out. And the property showed signs of having been neglected for many years. In line with our ancestors, we wanted to build stone by stone. With many years of experience from renovating houses and cabins as a hobby, Jan-Eilif took on the job room by room. Year by year, the site has evolved. "We are committed to reuse and sustainability. Nowadays, money can buy everything and demands for higher and higher standards are increasing. But creating something that many would have given up on is a challenge Jan-Eilif appreciates.
"We have chosen to take our guests along on the development of Varangertunet. You will therefore see traces of many time periods in the buildings. But we are gradually developing Varangertunet into the place we dream of. And along the way, we are living the dream.
We have already welcomed thousands of guests from all over the world.
We serve delicious home-cooked food in our main room, which is also used for parties and meetings.
Our houses, rooms and apartments allow for self-catering. There are many fireplaces and patios in the yard.
Here you can enjoy your morning coffee on the stairs and the evening sun from the terrace. Hiking areas are right outside the door in summer and winter.
Here, protected by the birch forest, with a view of the fjord, we can feel our shoulders sinking. This is a great place to be for our guests and for those of us who work and live here.
Welcome to our home at Varangertunet.
Further...
Now you've had a little insight into the start of Varangertunet. That leaves us with one question: What does the future hold for Varangertunet? We don't know exactly what awaits us. But we look forward to the years to come. To developing Varangertunet, so that we can continue to be your home on the Varanger Peninsula.
3reasons why you should stay at the farm!
01 -We have welcomedthousands of guests
We are a family that has lived in Varanger for generations and worked in tourism for over 20 years - in a place that is still described as an unknown gem, we have welcomed thousands of guests from all over the world. That's us! As a guest, you will be welcomed by people who are genuinely interested in Varanger and do their utmost to share this with you as a guest.
02 - You can have unique experiences without the "tourist feeling"
"We used to travel to another destination, but now there are so many tourists that it's not the same," say several of our customers. They don't want to stand in line out in nature, they want to be present in the moment and experience the unique nature. There are advantages to being an unknown gem!
03 - We're not satisfied until you are
We spend time getting to know you as a guest, and how we can help you get the most out of your trip to Varanger. Are you interested in nature, culture, history, fishing or birds? Do you want your food served or do you like to cook yourself? Here you will get recommendations based on your wishes and needs.
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We are a family that has lived in Varanger for generations. We really love this place and everything it has to offer. Something we want to share with you!
Born and raised in Varanger with a passion for nature, fly fishing and local history. He thrives on hard physical work and has a genuine desire to take care of nature in Varanger.
Born and raised in Varanger, with over 20 years' experience in local tourism. The role of host comes naturally to her, and if there is ONE thing she prioritizes highly, it is that the guests should have a good time.
Born and raised in Varanger, despite her age, she has over 10 years of experience in local tourism. She usually works in digital marketing, but helps out on the farm when she can.