The Snow Hotel has always intrigued me so I took the opportunity to check it out on a recent trip to Norway and found it not to be as I expected at all! I had imagined that the Snow Hotel would be a romantic choice for couples, perhaps a honeymoon or Valentine’s destination? So, while you are advised to sleep as near naked as possible snuggled up in your individual high-tech sleeping bags which are designed to withstand even outdoor sub zero temperatures, you won’t be getting too cosy with each other! Also hope you won’t need to go to the loo in the night as the toilet facilities are located in a separate utilities block – perhaps more a test of endurance, but if you are looking for an exciting arctic adventure this is the place!
The Snow Hotel is located within the Arctic Circle in Kirkenes (which means church headland), Northern Norway right on the Russian border. It is built each year from scratch using artificial snow, which is less powdery than real snow. The sleeping compartments are created by packing snow around an inflated balloon, which is burst and then removed. Sculptures are created from the snow and ice and the effect is truly amazing. Most people only book in for one night, this is an experience and probably won’t be the most comfortable nights stay in a hotel you have had, but it will certainly be the most unique!
Alternatively you can stay in one of the new wooden cabins complete with bathroom facilities and under floor heating. During the snow season there are plenty of activities from hunting the Northern lights, to dog sledding, snowmobiling, skiing, snowshoe walking and King Crab fishing!
Visit the Snow Hotel as an excursion from a Hurtigruten Arctic Circle Cruise where you can also meet the huskies and reindeer! Call us for information on 01932 866565 or email us for details.
