Engø Gård was constructed during the historic reign of the United Kingdom’s famed Queen Victoria, who sat on the British throne from 1837 to 1901. Originally built in 1845 as the popular summer country inn Pihls Pensjonat, Engø Gård Hotel and Restaurant is among Norway’s most historic destinations. This spectacular establishment has been managed by several unique characters over the years, including Frithjof Pihl and his sister Daisy. Frithjof then invited his second wife Dorothy to help run the business, whose quirky and distinctive personality left a lasting impression at the hotel. Imaginative and knowledgeable, Dorothy was a strong-minded English woman that changed the style of the building to that of an unmistakable British-style country home. Soon, luminaries and prominent personalities of Norway and other countries choose Engø Gård to experience an intimate and private tranquil escape from.

The inn closed during World War II, but later reopened during the 1960s when it served as a summer residence for the owners. In 1983, Nina Felling and Harald Andersen acquired the hotel and oversaw extensive restoration, expansion, and upgrades. The hotel reestablished as Engø Gård in the summer of 2000 and has remained an exquisite choice for luxury accommodations and gracious service.

Engø’s historic charm is distinguishable by the surrounding yard, which has remained in its original state since Frithjof Pihl erected the dining rooms, Spisestuebygning, and Drengestuene, in the 1920s. While modern enhancements have been made in recent years, the unique features of the original buildings have been maintained. The remaining fixtures of the former Pihls Pensjonat give the country inn an unmistakable style, as well as an atmosphere of elegant nostalgia.