SNOW RESORT KIRKENES

About us

Discover the story behind the world's only year-round snow hotel and Northern Norway's leading Arctic adventure provider, committed to authentic experiences and environmental responsibility.

Our Story

How It All Began

The story of Snowresort Kirkenes began with the same bold vision as the Snowhotel itself – to capture the fleeting magic of the Arctic winter and make it last forever.

Kirkenes Snowhotel was founded in 2006 by Kaare Tannvik, a local visionary inspired by the ice hotels he encountered during his travels around the world. He realized that the Arctic town of Kirkenes, with its long, snowy winters and clear northern skies, was the perfect place for such a unique attraction.

The first Snowhotel opened with just eight rooms made entirely of ice and snow, along with an ice bar and reindeer outside. Over the years, it has grown into a full Arctic resort featuring snow suites, warm Gamme cabins, and year-round experiences like dog sledding, reindeer visits, and king crab fishing. What began as a small winter experiment has become one of northern Norway’s most iconic destinations.

The Snowhotel

Snowhotel Kirkenes is the world’s only snow and ice hotel open all year round for overnight stays. Here, Arctic magic never melts – step into a real-life winter wonderland, no matter the season.

Each of our 14 dreamlike rooms is hand-carved by international ice artists, creating a gallery of snow and light where no two rooms are ever the same. Built from 30 tonnes of crystal-clear ice each year, the Snowhotel is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and creativity – a place where nature, art, and innovation meet.

Despite being -4°C inside, comfort is always close. Guests sleep warmly in thermal sleeping bags and unwind in cozy lounges, saunas, and showers nearby.

Snowhotel Kirkenes is more than a hotel – it’s a living work of Arctic art. Open 365 days a year, it stands as a tribute to imagination, sustainability, and the timeless beauty of the frozen north.

The Resort

Snow Resort Kirkenes is more than a destination – it’s an entire Arctic world waiting to be explored. What began with the Snowhotel has grown into a full resort, uniting unique experiences, cozy accommodations, and unforgettable adventures in every season.

Stay in our iconic Snowhotel 365, where ice and art meet, or relax in our Gamme Cabins, inspired by traditional Sami huts and designed for warmth and comfort. Dine on Nordic flavors and local specialties in our restaurant — a full-service venue offering seasonal three-course dinners crafted from the finest Arctic ingredients.

Step outside and discover the north at its purest. Meet our 200 huskies and their devoted mushers, feed gentle reindeer, or join one of our guided tours through the wild landscape. In winter, glide through silent forests by husky sled or snowmobile and chase the Northern Lights across the night sky. In summer, experience king crab safaris, midnight sun hikes, and tranquil bike rides through the tundra.

At Snow Resort Kirkenes, every season brings new adventures — and every moment is touched by the magic of the Arctic.

Our Team

Behind the shimmering ice walls of Snowhotel Kirkenes and Snow Resort Kirkenes stands a team unlike any other. From master ice sculptors and chefs to dog mushers, guides, and hosts – every person here plays a part in bringing Arctic magic to life.

Our mushers care for our beloved huskies year-round, leading guests through snow-covered wilderness and under the dancing northern lights. Our guides share stories of Arctic nature and local life, helping visitors connect with the land, the people, and the culture that make Kirkenes so special.

We are more than colleagues – we are a community. Some of us were born in the far north; others journeyed here from across the world, drawn by a love of adventure and the promise of something extraordinary. Together, we build, guide, cook, and welcome – keeping the Snow Resort alive in every season.

Snowhotel 365

Snowhotel Kirkenes at Snow Resort Kirkenes is a true marvel of Arctic craftsmanship – the first hotel in the world made entirely of snow and ice, open all year round.

Each year, around 30 tonnes of crystal-clear ice are harvested from local lakes to construct the Snowhotel’s intricate architecture and interior. Every wall, bed, and sculpture is meticulously crafted by skilled ice artists, creating a dreamlike environment that changes slightly with every rebuild.

The dog yard

At Snow Resort Kirkenes, our huskies are more than just sled dogs – they are the soul of our Arctic adventure. Whether dashing through snowy tundras in winter or greeting guests with wagging tails in summer, they embody the energy, joy, and wilderness of the far north.

Architecture at the Snow Resort

While the Snowhotel 365 remains a highlight, the architecture at our resort extends beyond the icy realm. Guests can stay in our Gamme Cabins, inspired by traditional Sami hunting and fishing huts, offering a warm and authentic Arctic experience. In December 2023, we unveiled our new Reception, a building that harmoniously blends with the surrounding landscape. Designed by North Norwegian architect Lars Hamran, it is both unique and integrated into nature.
FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Got questions? We got answers!

Find answers to common questions about staying at Snow Resort Kirkenes, the Snowhotel, Arctic activities, and how to plan for your Arctic adventure.

Work with us

Do you want to join our team? We’re always on the lookout for new talent! If you have passion, commitment, and drive – and want to be part of one of the most exciting workplaces in the North – we’d love to hear from you. Send us a message, tell us why you’re the right fit, and include your full CV and motivational letter.

Sustainability

At Snow Resort Kirkenes, sustainability is at the core of who we are. As a certified Eco-Lighthouse company, we are dedicated to protecting the environment, reducing our climate footprint, and ensuring a safe and rewarding workplace for our employees.
100% renewable energy: Our facilities run entirely on locally sourced renewable electricity, reducing CO₂ emissions each year.
Local and sustainable dining: We serve seasonal Arctic ingredients such as sustainably fished king crab, focusing on local produce and minimal food waste.
Animal welfare: Our huskies and reindeer enjoy top care, training, and natural living conditions. Their well-being always comes first.
Proven results: Over 85% of waste recycled or composted, 30% less food waste, and 90% guest satisfaction for sustainability.

Plane

The easiest way to reach Kirkenes is by air. Direct flights from Oslo take about 2 hours, with multiple departures daily. You can also fly via Tromsø or Alta, typically with short layovers. Both Norwegian and SAS offer direct routes, while Widerøe connects through Tromsø.

Despite its remote location, Kirkenes is surprisingly accessible – you can travel here from most European cities in a single day.
Plane
About 2 hours from Oslo

Bus (from Finland)

There are daily bus connections to Kirkenes from Ivalo (4 hours) and Rovaniemi (10 hours) in Finland. Both towns have direct flights from several European cities, making this a convenient route – especially in winter.
Bus
Between 4 and 10 hours

Car

Norwegian roads are well maintained and open year-round, aside from a few remote mountain passes in winter. If you're up for a scenic road trip, driving to Kirkenes is a great option. Rent a car from any major city or combine long-distance express buses with shorter drives for a flexible journey.
Car
Driving time is relative to your starting point.