Published
27/11/2025 às 19:55
In the remote town of Kirkenes, Norway — right on the border with Russia — a enterprise An unusual tourist attraction draws attention: the SnowHotel Kirkenes.
Unlike traditional ice hotels that melt at the end of winter, this hotel remains open year-round, even in summer.
It defies natural logic, keeping the ice intact at any time of year — and providing guests with a unique experience.
Where and how does SnowHotel Kirkenes, the ice hotel, work?
The SnowHotel Kirkenes is located in Kirkenes, in the far north of Norway.
It combines rooms and structures made of snow and ice — including artistic sculptures, an ice bar, and themed environments — with infrastructure adapted to ensure comfort and safety, even in sub-zero temperatures.
According to the hotel’s own staff, this is the world’s first permanently maintained ice hotel, meaning it “doesn’t melt even during the summer.”
The experience of sleeping on ice.
Inside the SnowHotel Kirkenes, the ice rooms are carefully prepared to withstand the intense cold.
Guests receive thermal sleeping bags (ready for extreme temperatures), appropriate clothing, and all the necessary equipment to spend the night comfortably, even in freezing conditions.
In addition, the hotel offers more “comfortable” alternatives: heated chalets next to the ice structure — ideal for those who want to observe the Northern Lights in greater comfort.
Those who visit the SnowHotel Kirkenes have much more at their disposal than just a place to sleep.
The hotel features ice sculptures that transform the space into an art gallery, a bar where even the glasses are made of ice, and common areas sculpted with an arctic theme.
To top it all off, there are typical Arctic activities: husky dog sled rides, safaris to see giant king crabs, ice trails, chances to observe the Northern Lights — and all of this can be part of your stay.
Why doesn’t the SnowHotel Kirkenes “melt”?
Unlike traditional temporary ice hotels that use natural ice and snow and only operate during the winter, melting with the arrival of spring, the SnowHotel Kirkenes was designed to withstand all seasons.
This characteristic makes it stand out in unconventional experiential tourism — offering permanent accommodation in the ice, without depending on the typical “expiration date” of this type of construction.
Who is it for — and why is it worth going to the SnowHotel Kirkenes?
- For adventurers seeking an “out of the ordinary” experience: sleeping in an ice room, listening to the silence of the Arctic, waking up surrounded by sculptures and snow.
- For nature lovers and those who appreciate Arctic landscapes — the Kirkenes area and hotel offer unique activities such as husky walks, King Crab safaris, hiking trails, and opportunities to see the Northern Lights in summer or winter.
- For those who appreciate art and design: the use of ice as a raw material combines with artistic creativity in sculptures, a bar, and themed rooms — transforming the hotel into a living gallery.
- For those who want something available year-round — without depending on the cold season — SnowHotel Kirkenes guarantees an ice experience at any time.
The SnowHotel Kirkenes redefines the classic concept of an “ice hotel.” It goes beyond ephemerality and winter, offering a permanent experience where the ice literally “doesn’t melt.”
If you’re looking for adventure, Arctic beauty, art, and comfort—and are drawn to something out of the ordinary—this hotel in Norway ranks among the most fascinating destinations in the world.
Source: NA+