Snow in July surprises guests at Hafjell hotel

Guests at Pellestova Hotel Hafjell woke Tuesday to a rare July snowfall, with temperatures hovering just above freezing.

The hotel, located 980 meters above sea level, shared a video on Facebook showing the unusual summer scene, which has been viewed over 10,000 times. “While Norway delivers surprises in the World Cup, Pellestova delivers snow in July. We might not have had this on our bingo card, but the mountain always does as it pleases,” the hotel wrote.

Receptionist Tobias Tønnessen told Dagbladet the snow took staff by surprise as well. “It’s a special experience. It’s not common, but most guests are taking it in good humor,” he said. Some cycling reservations were canceled, though he noted many still ride in all conditions.

By mid-morning, much of the snow on paved roads had begun to melt, though grassy areas remained covered. Tønnessen added that while snow outside winter is occasionally seen in June or September, July snowfall is rare. “I’ve never experienced snow here in July before,” he said.