Snowhotel Kirkenes: An Enchanting Arctic Experience
The Snowhotel Kirkenes, located in the town of Kirkenes in northern Norway, is a unique and enchanting experience for anyone seeking a winter adventure. As the name suggests, the hotel is constructed entirely from snow and ice, offering guests the opportunity to stay in a cozy and warm snow igloo.
The Snowhotel Kirkenes is open every winter season, from December to April. Each year, a team of skilled architects and builders construct the hotel using a combination of natural materials and modern technology. The hotel is built using ice blocks harvested from the local river and snow that is compacted into a solid structure.
The hotel is designed with intricate details and features several stunning ice sculptures, making it a work of art in itself. The interior of the hotel is adorned with beautiful ice carvings and sculptures, and guests are provided with warm sleeping bags and reindeer hides to stay comfortable during their stay. The temperature inside the hotel is kept between -4 to -7 degrees Celsius, ensuring that guests experience a true arctic adventure.
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In addition to the snow igloos, the Snowhotel Kirkenes also features a variety of other accommodations, including cabins and a traditional Sami lavvo. The lavvo is a traditional tent-like structure used by the indigenous Sami people for centuries. It provides a cozy and comfortable space to relax and socialize with fellow guests.
The hotel also offers a range of activities to make the most of the winter wonderland surroundings. Guests can go dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, or take a reindeer sleigh ride. They can also visit the nearby snow village, a permanent structure made entirely from snow and ice, and featuring an ice bar, chapel, and hotel rooms.
One of the highlights of a stay at the Snowhotel Kirkenes is the chance to see the Northern Lights. The hotel is situated in a prime location for viewing this stunning natural phenomenon, and guests can book guided tours to see the lights dance across the sky.
The Snowhotel Kirkenes is also committed to sustainability and minimizing its impact on the environment. The hotel uses renewable energy sources and recycles all waste generated during a guest’s stay.
In conclusion, the Snowhotel Kirkenes is a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone seeking a winter adventure. From sleeping in a cozy snow igloo to exploring the breathtaking arctic surroundings, guests are sure to create lasting memories at this enchanting destination.
King Crab Excursion
The Snowhotel Kirkenes in northern Norway not only offers a unique and enchanting arctic experience but also provides an opportunity for guests to indulge in the local delicacy of king crab.
The king crab, also known as the Alaskan king crab, is a popular dish in the region and is considered a gourmet treat. The Snowhotel Kirkenes offers king crab safaris, where guests can take a snowmobile or a sled ride across the frozen fjords to catch these giant crabs. The safari is led by experienced guides who know the best spots to catch the king crabs.
Once the crabs are caught, the guests can then participate in a hands-on experience of preparing and cooking the crabs. The chefs at the Snowhotel Kirkenes use traditional methods to prepare the crabs, and guests can watch and learn how to cook them to perfection.
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The Snowhotel Kirkenes also has its own restaurant, the Gabba, which offers a range of king crab dishes on its menu. From crab soup to crab salad, crab legs, and even grilled crab, guests can indulge in a variety of delicious and freshly prepared king crab dishes.
One of the most popular dishes at the Gabba is the King Crab Safari menu. This three-course meal includes a starter of king crab soup, followed by a main course of grilled king crab served with a side of baked potatoes and salad. For dessert, guests can enjoy a warm blueberry pie with vanilla ice cream.
The king crab at the Snowhotel Kirkenes is not only a delicious treat but also a sustainable one. The hotel uses only locally sourced crabs, which are caught in a responsible and sustainable manner to ensure the long-term survival of this species.
In conclusion, the Snowhotel Kirkenes is not only a magical destination to experience the arctic wonders but also offers guests the opportunity to indulge in the local delicacy of king crab. From catching the crabs to cooking and enjoying them in the restaurant, the king crab safari is a unique and unforgettable experience that is not to be missed.
