WorldHotels Brings Norwegian Heritage to the Global Stage Through De Historiske Partnership
Operations, Brand & Hotel Groups, MarketingMay 18, 2026

WorldHotels Brings Norwegian Heritage to the Global Stage Through De Historiske Partnership

The addition of 25 De Historiske properties expands the WorldHotels Scandinavian portfolio to nearly 40 hotels and deepens its Crafted collection's focus on cultural heritage

WorldHotels, a global brand of independent luxury and lifestyle hotels, has entered into a partnership with De Historiske, a network of more than 102 unique hotels, restaurants and historic ships in Norway. In the initial phase, 25 hotels will join the portfolio and become part of the WorldHotels Crafted collection, which highlights hotels with strong identities, creative design and experiences that reflect the character of the destination. The brand alignment provides De Historiske's members with extensive distribution across the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union. In addition, the collaboration strengthens WorldHotels' presence in Norway, bringing its Scandinavian portfolio to 37 hotels.

A Partnership Rooted in Authenticity

"We are proud to welcome De Historiske into the WorldHotels portfolio. This partnership brings together two brands united by a shared commitment to authenticity, heritage, and exceptional guest experiences," said Ron Pohl, President of WorldHotels. "De Historiske represents some of the most characterful and culturally significant historic hotels and restaurants in Scandinavia, each with a story that spans generations. We are excited to work together to further our mission of celebrating the individuality of each hotel and connecting travelers to destinations rich in stories, heritage and meaning around the world."

The expansion broadens WorldHotels' reach in Norway, from coastal destinations and fjord landscapes to historic urban environments and mountain areas, strengthening its presence beyond the largest cities and creating a more diverse portfolio for both leisure and business travelers.

Expanding the Scandinavian Footprint

"This is a collaboration that is fully in line with our values. We seek partnerships with hotels that are run with passion, have a clear identity and wish to preserve their distinctive character, while also recognizing the strength of collaborating on visibility and loyalty. By working with De Historiske, we are strengthening our focus on hospitality and experiences. It is a natural step in our growth strategy in Scandinavia and an opportunity to reach more guests who are looking for something more than just a room," said Johan Michelson, CEO of BWH Hotels Scandinavia.

Among the hotels joining the WorldHotels portfolio are Bekkjarvik Gjestgiveri, led by Bocuse d'Or winner Ørjan Johannessen; the venerable Kviknes Hotel; and the historic Sundvolden Hotel, with more De Historiske hotels expected to join in future phases.

Celebrating Local Heritage

Bound by a passion for authenticity and local character, WorldHotels and De Historiske champion independent properties that celebrate their local heritage. Together, they redefine hospitality as a universal feeling—where every traveler, whether in a bustling city or a quiet fjord, finds a place where they truly feel welcome.

"Our hotels in De Historiske will contribute to WorldHotels while also attracting more international guests to cultural and heritage tourism at unique historic sites in Norway. Norway is a unique destination, and we look forward to welcoming guests from all over the world through our collaboration with WorldHotels," said Nils Henrik Geitle, CEO of De Historiske.

Guests can browse the full list of hotels and make room reservations online at worldhotels.com.

WorldHotels and De Historiske partnership announcement featuring Norwegian historic hotel imagery

The addition of 25 De Historiske properties expands the WorldHotels Scandinavian portfolio to nearly 40 hotels and deepens its Crafted collection's focus on cultural heritage

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