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About Bjørnfjell
Your encounter with nature happens the second your foot touches the ground outside Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge. During the autumn and summer months you’ll hear the babbling creek mixed with the bleat from the sheep – a true sound of the old, Norwegian countryside, which you’ll also see represented in our interior and exterior. Here you can enjoy a breath of fresh, ocean air as it mingles with the woody smell of pine. Meanwhile, in the winter and spring, the whole landscape transforms into a white, winter wonderland, where the midnight sun in turn replaces the northern lights and polar night.
The local countrylife and farming traditions are strong and important traditions in Alta and so it was natural for us to use it for inspiration in our building process. From grassy roofs to piles of firewood in the front desk and the cups we use in our restaurant, glimpse into our local traditions and history can be seen everywhere you go. This is our way of inviting our guests into our culture and into a homelike atmosphere that makes them feel relaxed and welcome.
Another important part of our culture that we have made part of Bjørnfjell is our traditional Arctic life. Here in Alta, most of us locals are a mix of three cultures; Norwegian, Sámi and Kven (Finnish origin) and all these cultures lay the foundation for our traditions and our relationship to nature. To be together in nature is the greatest joys of life up north. Winter, spring, summer and autumn our families and friends gather outdoors to spend hours together in the fresh arctic air. Whether we are ice fishing, skiing or just enjoying each other’s company around the bonfire, the most important thing is to spend time together and create memories.
This something we want to share with our guest, along with the escape to cabin life and country living, where time moves differently and you can enjoy a refreshing break from everyday life. Surrounded by beautiful Arctic nature, eating delicious food and sleeping in a comfy bed – few things in life can bring as much joy as this.
How It All Started
Jan – The Entrepreneur
Jan’s entrepreneurial spirit emerged early. At just 10 years old, he would rise before dawn, trek 5 km to the fjord with his sled, fish through the ice, and sell his catch on the way home—earning his very first salary. Over the years, Jan has founded several successful businesses. In 1978, he started a mechanical contracting company that played a significant role in developing Alta’s infrastructure, employing up to 50 people at its peak. In 1989, Jan co-founded JARO, a concrete factory that has since become one of Alta’s largest employers with around 80 employees. JARO has contributed to many of Alta’s buildings and remains a cornerstone of the community.
Later, Jan was approached to take over a project involving a ski resort and cabin area, Sarves. After discussing with his daughter Synnøve—who fondly remembered her own experiences there together with her own children—they recognized the site’s potential and took on the project together, sparking a new chapter of growth. A proud farmer’s son and one of six siblings, Jan inherited his strong work ethic from his Norwegian father and Finnish-speaking mother. Married to Karin for 64 years, he is a father of five, grandfather of 10, and great-grandfather of seven. Family is at the heart of everything he does. Whether skiing straight from his cabin or hunting with his dog Ella, Jan cherishes time in nature.
Now 83, Jan continues to work daily, driven by his passion for new ideas and the joy of shaping this remarkable place he calls home.
Synnøve
Synnøve was working as a junior high school teacher when her father, Jan, introduced her to the Sarves project. Recognizing its potential, she decided to leave her teaching career and partner with him to bring the project to life. The facility they took over was in poor condition, so they rolled up their sleeves and got to work. Piece by piece, they rebuilt the center, adding a café and, in 2016, the world’s northernmost climbing park.
While the new features were exciting, the local population base was small, making year-round operations challenging. Synnøve realized that attracting more visitors would not only secure the facility’s future but also provide enriching experiences for the local community. At the same time, tourism in Alta was growing, and she envisioned offering unique experiences, such as skiing under the Northern Lights, to international guests.
During her first meeting with tour operators, it became clear there was a demand for unique accommodations. This sparked the idea for Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge. For Synnøve, it was natural to draw inspiration from traditional Norwegian cabin culture—a place for family to gather, enjoy good food, play games, and have meaningful conversations. Cabins represent simplicity, coziness, and a connection to nature, with adventure waiting just outside the door.
Though she’s passionate about her work, Synnøve is deeply family-oriented. She’s married to Viktor, whom she met at 17. They have two daughters and two grandchildren, and family time is precious to her. Synnøve also loves meeting new people, especially when she gets to share her love for the Arctic and its breathtaking nature with her guests.
Meet the Bjørnfjell Team
Nadia
Nadia grew up between mountains and water in Jukkasjärvi far north in Sweden. She moved to Alta in 2020 and loves the fjords and the outdoor culture. Outdoor living means something different for us up north – to her it means hours spent in front of a bonfire, skis on her feet or exploring where a new trail leads. Ever since she started working at Bjørnfjell in 2021, no day is alike and that is one of the best things about her job. Another great thing about working here is her colleagues, and the many great moments spent together.
Benedicte
Benedicte was born and raised in Alta, and only moved away for three years to study marketing at the University of Tromsø. In her free time she loves taking walks in the nearby nature, read books and travel around the world. Her favorite part of living in Alta is the varied seasons and the magical Arctic Light. The best thing she knows about working at Bjørnfjell is that no work day is the same, getting to know new people from every corner of the world, and her amazing colleagues.
Alvin
Alvin is originally from the Philippines, and came here 8 years ago to study Arctic Tourism in Alta. He has been working at Bjørnfjell ever since he finished his degree at the university. His favorite part about living in Alta is the cold, clean air and of course the peaceful nature. The Northern Lights and the Midnight sun is an added bonus! The things he loves most about working at Bjørnfjell are his coworkers and all the kind guests he gets to meet from all over the world.
Tora Vilje
Tora came to Alta to experience Finnmark and completed her master’s degree in sports science. The plan was to stay for one year, but the people, the nature, and the lifestyle made her want to stay. As an activity leader at Bjørnfjell, she truly appreciates the warm and homely atmosphere – and especially the wonderful colleagues and animals. She feels lucky to spend much of her workday outdoors, sharing nature experiences with guests from all over the world. Being from Western Norway, she’s especially fond of the climate – the sun is always shining in Alta!
Samanta
Samanta is originally from Latvia and lived in Sweden for a few years, but now calls Alta home. She loves the surrounding nature – the mountains, snow, Northern Lights, and the sudden appearance of rainbow-colored clouds. Alta is peaceful and inspiring. Working at Bjørnfjell, she enjoys the friendly atmosphere and working with a great team. Being part of the guest experience is rewarding, and she loves meeting people from around the world.
Torill
After 33 years in an office job, Torill retired, but quickly found that she was not ready to stop working, and started working as a host at Bjørnfjell 2 years ago. Her favorite thing about the job as a host, has been getting to know colleagues and guests from all corners of the world. In her free time, she fishes in both summer and winter, and goes on short and long roadtrips with her camper. Otherwise, she is skilled at both knitting and sewing, which comes in handy at work as well!
Sustainability
The Environmental Lighthouse is Norway’s most widely used certificate for businesses that want to document their environmental efforts and demonstrate social responsibility. The certificate is recognized by the authorities for public procurement.
The businesses meet requirements and implement measures for sustainable operations and a better working environment.
Learn more about the measures we have and our values regarding sustainability as a hotel here.
The Bjørnfjell Sheep
Just outside the main lodge, you’ll find a fenced area where our flock of Norwegian wild sheep spend the winter. During summer, they roam the nearby ski slopes, grazing to help keep the vegetation clear before the snow returns.
In May, we welcome adorable newborn lambs and get to watch them thrive and play throughout the summer.
From October, we’re able to serve the most local and sustainable mutton in our restaurant. Our sheep enjoy a happy, free life in the surrounding forest and hills, nourished by the rich pastures and supplemented with leftover vegetables and bread from our kitchen.
Come by and say hello when you are visiting us! They love cuddles – especially if you have some snacks to feed them with.
Photos: Dánil Røkke
Want to Become a Part of Our Team?
Our team consists of hosts, chefs, cleaners, waiters, guides and more. We offer positions based on both permanent or season basis. Find out more about which positions are available now, and apply today!