Guided Tour at Arctic Snow Hotel

Discover the Arctic Snow Hotel in Rovaniemi for an Unforgettable Winter Experience

The Guided Tour at Arctic Snow Hotel offers an engaging glimpse into the magic of Arctic craftsmanship. Priced at $96.36 per person, this 3-hour 30-minute excursion takes visitors through the stunning ice and snow structures of the Arctic SnowHotel, a venue renowned for its spectacular sculptures and unique accommodations. The tour includes a 30-minute transfer, with convenient access from Rovaniemi, Finland, and features a guided exploration of the hotel’s construction, its special features, and arctic specialties like the Snow Sauna.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a refreshing Arctic adventure with insightful explanations from knowledgeable guides. While the Ice Bar visit, where guests can purchase a drink served in a glass made of ice, is optional and incurs an additional fee, the overall experience is centered around the snow hotel’s impressive architecture and artistic sculptures. The tour’s average booking window of 42 days in advance and maximum group size of 100 ensures a well-organized, comfortably paced visit, making it suitable for most travelers.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $96.36 per person for approximately 3.5 hours, including transportation.
• Location and Transport: Departs from central Rovaniemi with a 30-minute transfer to the Arctic SnowHotel.
• Main Highlights: Guided tour of snow and ice structures, spectacular sculptures, and Snow Sauna.
• Optional Ice Bar: Guests can purchase ice shots in glasses crafted from ice at the Ice Bar after the tour.
• Extras Included: WiFi, access to Ice Bar, air-conditioned vehicle, and toboggans and kick sledges in the yard.
• Limitations: No included food or drinks (except WiFi and access to the Ice Bar), and the tour depends on good weather.

Arrival at the Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos

The journey begins with a 30-minute transfer from central Rovaniemi, delivering visitors to the Arctic SnowHotel, an extraordinary venue featuring elaborate snow and ice structures. The hotel is famous for its spectacular ice sculptures and distinctive hotel rooms, all crafted from snow and ice, creating a fairy-tale Arctic atmosphere. As a highlight, visitors get to learn about the construction and operation of the hotel from the guide, gaining insights into this unique engineering feat.

Guests are encouraged to take their time exploring after the guided tour, with the option to order a drink from the Ice Bar served in an ice glass. The Ice Bar experience adds a fun, interactive element to the visit, though it is not included in the ticket price. The entire experience emphasizes the visual beauty and creative artistry of the ice and snow sculptures, making it a visual feast for all ages.

Exploring the Snow and Ice Structures

The main attraction of the tour is the guided explanation of the snow hotel’s architecture and artistic sculptures. Visitors will see spectacular ice sculptures that showcase the artistry and craftsmanship involved in Arctic hospitality. The hotel rooms built entirely from ice and snow are a fascinating feature, offering a glimpse into Arctic luxury.

The guide elaborates on the construction process and special features of the SnowHotel, helping visitors appreciate the technical skill and artistic vision behind this frosty masterpiece. The visual appeal is complemented by informative commentary, making this a rich cultural experience as well as a visual spectacle.

Engaging Activities and Unique Features

Along With the guided tour, visitors can enjoy toboggans and kick sledges available in the yard, adding a fun element for families and kids. The Snow Sauna is highlighted as a unique Arctic specialty, providing a warm retreat after exploring the icy surroundings.

The Ice Bar offers an opportunity to purchase ice shots, served in glasses made from ice, providing a memorable drink experience. This optional activity adds a touch of Arctic novelty, perfect for those wanting to complete their snow hotel visit with something more than just sightseeing.

Logistical Details and Practical Tips

The tour includes WiFi, which allows visitors to share their spectacular photos instantly. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the 30-minute transfer through the cold Arctic environment. Because the group size is limited to 100, the experience remains intimate and manageable.

Though lunch, dinner, and drinks are not included in the base ticket, guests can purchase extra food and beverages at the hotel’s various bars or at the Kota Restaurant. For those who prefer a full Arctic dining experience, alternative packages with dinner options are available, such as Chill & Dine or Food by the Fire.

Flexibility with Cancellation

The tour offers a free cancellation policy, allowing guests to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes the booking flexible, especially in case of poor weather conditions that could impact visibility or safety. If the weather turns bad, the tour can be rescheduled or fully refunded.

Honest Review: Strengths and Limitations

The Arctic Snow Hotel tour earns a 4.5/5 rating based on 8 reviews, praised for its visual beauty and informative guides. Reviewers highlight how the timing and pacing are well-managed, ensuring guests have enough time to explore and enjoy the experience. The spectacular sculptures and themed rooms stand out as major draws.

However, some dissatisfaction is noted regarding organization issues, specifically with transportation and check-in. Visitors should be prepared for potential delays or group size limitations. The price is considered reasonable for the quality of the experience, but lunch and drinks require additional payment.

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or individuals interested in Arctic scenery and ice artistry, and those who want a comprehensive yet manageable visit to the SnowHotel. It’s particularly suitable for first-time visitors to Rovaniemi who want a guided, well-organized experience with a touch of Arctic charm.

Arctic Snow Hotel Tour: Final Thoughts

The Guided Tour at Arctic Snow Hotel offers a beautiful and informative introduction to the artistry and ingenuity of Arctic snow architecture. Visitors enjoy a leisurely exploration of spectacular sculptures, ice rooms, and special features like the Snow Sauna. The optional Ice Bar adds a fun and memorable element, making the tour a great value for those interested in Arctic culture and design.

While minor issues with organization are acknowledged, the overall experience delivers excellent visuals, insightful explanations, and a chance to enjoy Arctic hospitality. This tour is particularly recommended for design lovers, families, and Arctic curiosity seekers looking for a flexible, engaging activity amidst Rovaniemi’s winter wonderland.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the Arctic Snow Hotel guided tour?
The tour includes a guided visit to the snow and ice structures, transportation, WiFi, access to the Ice Bar, and toboggans and kick sledges in the yard. The Ice Bar visit and food or drinks are not included but can be purchased separately.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, including a 30-minute transfer and guided exploration of the SnowHotel.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, visitors can enjoy tobogganing and kick sledging in the yard, which adds to the fun Arctic experience.

Can I buy drinks at the Ice Bar?
Yes, ice shots can be purchased at the Ice Bar, served in glasses made from ice. These are optional extras and incur an additional fee.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, meals are not part of the standard package. Guests can buy lunch from the Kota Restaurant or opt for packages that include dinner.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a 30-minute transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle takes guests from central Rovaniemi to the Arctic SnowHotel.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 100 travelers, maintaining a comfortable group size for guided explanations.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
Cancelling is free up to 24 hours before the tour start time, offering flexibility if weather or plans change.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The cold environment and outdoor activities are engaging for a wide age range.

What should I wear for the visit?
Warm clothing is recommended, especially since the SnowHotel is in an Arctic environment. Some activities and exploration are outdoors.

Can I visit without a guide?
The experience is structured as a guided tour, making it ideal to join the organized visit to fully appreciate the artistry and features of the SnowHotel.