Located in Northern Norway, the Kirkenes Snow Hotel is a truly unique attraction that promises an unforgettable experience for guests seeking to immerse themselves in a winter wonderland. What sets this snow hotel apart is that it was one of the first in the world to be entirely constructed from snow and ice. But what truly sets it apart is that the hotel operates year-round, making it a one-of-a-kind destination.
As guests step beyond the check-in desk, they are greeted by a magnificent polar bear ice sculpture, setting the tone for the magical experience that awaits them. Throughout the hotel's hallways and ice bar, stunning sculptures crafted from ice and snow captivate the eye. Even the tables upon which drinks are served are made entirely of ice. For the truly adventurous, overnight accommodation is available in individually crafted snow caves complete with beds made of ice. Some rooms even cater to families or groups of friends, offering spacious sleeping arrangements.
Despite the chilly surroundings, guests need not worry about freezing during their stay. The Snow Hotel provides guests with thermal sleeping bags that surprisingly keep them warm throughout the night. The only recommended nightwear is woollen underwear, warm socks, and headwear to ensure maximum comfort.
Beyond the enchanting guest rooms and ice bar lies an ice sculpture workshop, a must-visit for those looking to appreciate the artistry that goes into creating these intricate sculptures. The workshop provides visitors with the perfect opportunity for stunning selfies against the backdrop of these masterpieces. Before bidding farewell to the snow hotel, it's essential to explore all the guest rooms as each offers a unique experience.
The excitement continues outside the hotel itself, with activities that allow guests to immerse themselves in the surrounding winter wonderland. Visitors can feed reindeer, meet playful huskies, and embark on thrilling adventures with dog sleds or snowmobiles. Even when there's no snow, huskies are eager to run, allowing visitors to experience the same exhilaration in wheeled carts during the summer months.
For necessary amenities like restrooms and a cafe, a service building is conveniently connected to the snow hotel. Additionally, there is a standalone restaurant and visitor center that ensure guests have everything they need for a comfortable stay. All overnight guests also receive dinner and breakfast as part of their rate, ensuring a delicious experience.
For those who prefer a different accommodation option, wooden cabins are available year-round. These cabins are the ideal choice for guests hoping to maximize their chances of witnessing the stunning northern lights.
Despite its remote location in comparison to neighboring Finland, the Kirkenes Snow Hotel receives a surprising number of daily visitors. This is largely due to the fact that Kirkenes serves as an important turnaround point for the Hurtigruten and Havila ships sailing along the Norwegian coastal route. Guests embarking on a one-way voyage have the opportunity to add an overnight stay at the snow hotel to their itinerary, either before or after their voyage. Alternatively, those who opt for the full coastal route can visit the snow hotel as part of an organized excursion.
For those who prefer to visit independently, the snow hotel welcomes direct bookings. However, it's advisable to thoroughly review the hotel's website in advance to familiarize oneself with the daily schedule of activities, ranging from dog sledding and snowmobile tours to hotel tours and ice bar openings.
The Kirkenes Snow Hotel in Northern Norway is a truly remarkable destination that offers an extraordinary winter experience. With its breathtaking ice sculptures, unique accommodation options, and thrilling activities, it promises an adventure that will be cherished for a lifetime. Truly an enchanting escape into a world of ice and snow.
