Snow Hotel Tour and Ice Restaurant Dinner – An Unforgettable Experience in Rovaniemi, Finland

If you’re visiting Rovaniemi and you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, then the Snow Hotel Tour and Ice Restaurant Dinner is a must-try activity. With this tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a hotel that is entirely made of ice and snow. You’ll take a tour of the chilly interior and learn about its construction before enjoying a 3-course dinner at an ice restaurant. Here are some of the most frequent questions asked by tourists about the activity:

What does the tour involve?

The tour includes a comfortable and climate-controlled bus ride from Rovaniemi to the Snow Hotel. You’ll take a tour of the hotel’s construction to learn about the making of a hotel that is fully made from ice and snow. After the tour, it’s time for dinner at the nearby Ice Restaurant. The restaurant has a special soft chocolate dessert that you don’t want to miss!

What’s on the menu for dinner?

The restaurant offers a selection of Lappish dishes. You’ll have the option to choose your preferred main course before the meal. The dinner is a 3-course meal, including a starter, a main course, and a dessert. You don’t have to worry about getting cold during the dinner as you will be provided warm clothing.

What time does the tour start and how long does it last?

The tour starts in the late afternoon, and the exact time may vary depending on the time of year. The duration of the tour is approximately 4 hours, but this may vary slightly depending on the location of your accommodation.

Is there any age limit for this tour?

The tour is suitable for all ages and families with children are welcome. You should keep in mind, though, that the ice hotel’s temperature is below freezing, so you should dress warmly.

How to book the tour?

You can book the tour using the following link. The booking process is simple, and you’ll receive a confirmation e-mail once you’ve booked the tour. You can also check the availability of the tour using the link.

What else to do in Rovaniemi?

Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland and has plenty of things to offer. You can visit Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa himself and cross the magical Arctic Circle. The Arktikum Museum is another must-visit place in Rovaniemi, which offers an extensive exhibition on the Northern nature, culture, and history.

How to get to Rovaniemi?

Rovaniemi can be reached by plane or train. The Rovaniemi airport is located about 8 km outside of the city center, and there are daily flights from Helsinki. If you prefer the train, you can take the overnight train from Helsinki, which offers a comfortable sleeper cabin service.

Final Words

The Snow Hotel Tour and Ice Restaurant Dinner in Rovaniemi is an unforgettable experience that you don’t want to miss. The tour offers a great opportunity to learn about the construction of an ice hotel and enjoy tasty Lappish dishes in an ice restaurant. Rovaniemi itself is a charming city with plenty of things to explore, including Santa Claus village and the Arktikum Museum. Book this tour to add a unique and memorable experience to your Rovaniemi trip.

Insider’s Guide to Rovaniemi, Finland

Nestled deep in the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is the capital of the Finnish Lapland and is most famous as the home of Santa Claus. However, the city has a lot more to offer than just Christmas-themed attractions. Rovaniemi is a winter wonderland, with plenty of exciting things to do and unique experiences to enjoy. In this insider’s guide, we will take you on a journey through the city’s hidden gems, cultural experiences, and adventurous activities.

Local Attractions

Rovaniemi is home to a wide range of local attractions that are worth exploring. The Santa Claus Village is a must-visit place in Rovaniemi, which is open all year round. Kids can meet Santa Claus and his elves, ride a reindeer sleigh, send postcards with an official Santa Claus postmark in the Santa Claus Post Office, and cross the magical Arctic Circle line. One can also visit the Arktikum Museum & Science Centre which showcases the Arctic region’s history, culture, and environment. The museum has a beautiful collection of geological, botanical, and zoological specimens from Lapland.

Another fascinating attraction is the Rovaniemi Art Museum that features contemporary art by Finnish and international artists. One can visit the Ounasvaara Ski Resort to go skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Visitors can also enjoy dog sledding tours across snowy landscapes and snowmobile safaris. Moreover, Rovaniemi’s Sky Park is a unique attraction for stargazing enthusiasts. It is an observation tower with a viewpoint that offers a stunning view of the northern lights.

Dining Spots

When visiting Rovaniemi, one must indulge in traditional Finnish cuisine. Local restaurants offer dishes made with reindeer, elk, and fresh fish from the nearby rivers. One can experience a unique dining experience at Lapland’s SnowHotel, followed by a dinner at the Sky Restaurant. The restaurant offers Michelin-star quality food with a stunning view of the Northern Lights. Another famous restaurant is Roka Kitchen & Wine Bar, known for its excellent wine, cocktails, and international dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

For a traditional Lappish meal, head to Bistro Restaurant Nordic Kitchen that offers a wide variety of local delicacies such as Reindeer Meatballs, Arctic Char, and Sautéed Reindeer. If you are looking for a laid-back atmosphere, Cafe & Bar 21 is a great spot to enjoy a beer or two and grab a bite to eat with friends.

Cultural Experiences

Rovaniemi has a rich and unique culture that is worth exploring. The Sami Cultural Center Sajos is a great place to learn about the local indigenous community and their way of life. The center has a museum, restaurant, and hosts cultural events that are open to the public. The Korundi House of Culture is another cultural landmark that hosts music, dance, and theatre performances. Visitors can also attend a Northern Lights-themed concert at Snowcastle Concert Hall.

For a spiritual experience, visitors can take part in a traditional Finnish sauna ceremony. It involves relaxing in a wooden sauna heated with a wood-fired stove, followed by a dip in the icy waters of a nearby lake. It is an ultimate Finnish experience that will rejuvenate your senses.

Local History

Rovaniemi has a rich and intriguing history. During World War II, the city was heavily bombed and destroyed by the Germans. As a result, the city had to be rebuilt from scratch, and the famous Finnish architect, Alvar Aalto, was commissioned to design the city’s layout. A fascinating way to learn about Rovaniemi’s history is to visit the Pilke Science Centre that showcases the forestry industry’s role in building Finnish society.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

For those looking to get off the beaten path, head to the Korouoma National Park, situated about an hour’s drive from Rovaniemi. The park is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, with stunning waterfalls, frozen gorges, and dramatic landscapes. Another unique experience is a visit to the Ranua Wildlife Park. The park is around half an hour’s drive from Rovaniemi, where one can see various animals indigenous to Lapland, such as brown bears, wolves, lynxes, and reindeers.

In conclusion, Rovaniemi, Lapland is the ultimate destination for those seeking adventurous experiences and cultural immersion. From the Northern Lights to the Sami culture and authentic Finnish cuisine, Rovaniemi is a wonderland of unique and unforgettable experiences.