Our History

The story of Pellestova began with Pelle Skalmstad, born Magnus Vladimir Illarionovich Sladnjev, the son of a Ukrainian refugee who married the daughter of the Skalmstad farm in Øyer. In 1944, due to health reasons, Pelle was advised to spend a summer in the mountains. He brought an old pig shed from the family farm and rebuilt it on what he considered the finest plot of land at Hundersetra. The following year, the small cabin became known as Pellestova.

In 1946, Pelle opened the window of his cabin and began serving coffee in chipped porcelain cups. What started as a simple offering soon grew into a mountain lodge and accommodation for travellers seeking fresh air and mountain scenery. With his distinctive personality, warm hospitality and entrepreneurial spirit, Pelle created a destination that attracted visitors from near and far. Over the years, Pellestova became a gathering place for locals, hikers and skiers, and even hosted some of the world’s leading cross-country athletes during their preparations for the winter season.

Following Pelle’s passing in 1990, it became increasingly difficult to carry his life’s work forward. In 2003, Pellestova closed its doors, and the buildings gradually fell into disrepair. In 2006, what remained of Pellestova was sold as a redevelopment project, and after years of dedicated work and significant investment, the hotel reopened in 2009.

Today, Pellestova is owned by Bjørn Rune Gjelsten and has evolved into a modern mountain hotel in the heart of Øyerfjellet. Yet the story of Pelle lives on through historic photographs, treasured memories and the atmosphere that still defines the place. By preserving and sharing this heritage, we continue to connect past and present while safeguarding a unique piece of Norwegian mountain culture.