Norway: Kirkenes Snowhotel
Enjoy the ultimate Arctic experience in an Ice Hotel
Norway is a wonderful country brimming with captivating attractions, unspoilt scenery and fascinating history. A holiday to the Kirkenes Snowhotel is the perfect destination for a family winter break. This spectacular hotel is situated among beautiful Norwegian countryside and guests can take part in a range of thrilling (chargeable) activities. Speed over icy terrain on a snowmobile, meet adorable reindeer and huskies, or try your hand at fishing for King Crab. A stay at the Kirkenes Ice Hotel in Norway is a truly wonderful experience. Snuggle up in one of the roomy ice suites that are adorned with artistic lighting and magical snow sculptures. An insulating sleeping bag will keep you warm throughout the night.
Guests staying at the Kirkenes Snowhotel also have the opportunity to witness the enchanting Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. These Arctic regions are renowned for the fantastic displays that illuminate the wintry landscape, and a guided Northern Lights tour will take you to some of the most advantageous viewpoints. There are few things more magnificent than watching the dancing rays of the Aurora swathe snow-covered trees in an ethereal glow at the Kirkenes Snowhotel. See the exciting activities detailed in the itinerary below and start creating your own fairytale holiday in this winter wonderland.
Day 1 -
Fly to Kirkenes
Fly to Kirkenes for your Kirkenes Snowhotel break and transfer to the Rica Arctic Hotel where your winter adventure really begins. The evening is free for you to spend at leisure. Perhaps explore the surrounding landscape and keep watch for the Northern Lights.
Meals included:
Breakfast
,
Dinner
Day 2 -
Leisure Day With Optional Activities
The first of two days where you can explore your location independently, relax in the hotel or enjoy some of the fabulous (chargeable) activities on offer. You can learn the secret of husky ‘mushing’ and embark on an escapade over the snowy fells which envelop the Kirkenes Snowhotel. During this four hour tour you'll stop for a picnic lunch in the midst of the snowy Arctic wilderness.
If you are a creature of the night, our magnificent Northern Lights bus tour will be right up your street, taking you to various vantage points, off the beaten track and away from the glare of the bright city lights. As the bus journeys through the icy Arctic wilderness, relax in warmth and comfort anticipating the appearance of the dazzling Aurora Borealis.
Looking for a real hands on adventure? Well, how about a spot of King Crab fishing? This Norwegian speciality is a real treat and, once you have your catch, you will be invited to the home of your fisherman guide to sample this tasty treat.
Meals included:
Breakfast
,
Dinner
Day 3 -
Leisure Day With Optional Activities
More free time today at the Kirkenes Snowhotel to get to grips with your location or get active with the local (chargeable) activities. Start off by learning the basics of cross-country skiing before setting out to explore the deep snowy tracks. This is a great way to discover Norway’s unparalleled scenery and keep a look out for the native wildlife. Alternatively, learn how to snowshoe so you can hike across the striking countryside absorbing the beauty and tranquility of the Kirkenes Snowhotel’s environs. And if you fancy a real thrill, an invigorating snowmobile safari is an absolute must. Snowmobiling is great fun and easy for beginners to get to grips with. Whizzing along Arctic tracks, you'll really be able to explore the ice-covered landscape.
Please note: a full driving licence is required for those taking part in the snowmobile tour.
Meals included:
Breakfast
,
Dinner
Day 4 -
Overnight at the Kirkenes Snowhotel
Spend time in the morning admiring the striking snowy scenery or, if you prefer, yet more of the optional (chargeable) activities. Early evening, once you have packed your luggage, a guide will escort you to the Kirkenes Snowhotel. We travel there by traditional kick sleds which are a great way of seeing the picturesque countryside. You will be welcomed at the Kirkenes Snowhotel with a refreshing drink in the remarkable Ice Bar where everything, including the glasses, is carved from ice. Tuck into a delicious meal at the hotel’s restaurant, which can be found in the rustic wooden building nearby, and keep warm by the crackling fire.
Following dinner there will be time to take a look around the Kirkenes Snowhotel or you could perhaps meet the huskies or reindeer at the farm next door. Before you retire to your ice suite for the evening, you will be given instructions on how to keep warm during the night.
Meals included:
Breakfast
Day 5 -
Return to the UK
Following a warming sauna and breakfast at the Kirkenes Snowhotel, it's time to travel to the airport for your return flight.