Arctic Snowcastle with Dinner in Ice Restaurant

The Arctic Snowcastle with Dinner in Ice Restaurant offers a truly unique Arctic adventure in Rovaniemi, Finland. Priced at $194 and lasting approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, this experience combines breathtaking craftsmanship, cultural charm, and delicious cuisine. The tour includes hotel transfers and a three-course Arctic meal, making it a seamless way to enjoy the icy marvels of Lapland. The Ice Restaurant, nestled within the Snowcastle, is the highlight, featuring handmade ice carvings and a magnificent ice chapel.

While the temperature inside the castle stays around 5°C, the tour provides winter clothing (overall and boots), ensuring comfort despite the cold. This experience suits couples, families, and friends seeking an extraordinary evening, though attendees should be prepared for the chilly environment. The guided visit adds insightful commentary, and the dining experience is designed to impress with local Arctic cuisine.

Key Points

• Includes hotel transfers to and from the Arctic Snowcastle
• Experience the largest ice restaurant in Rovaniemi, built by a famous Lapland artist
• Enjoy a three-course Arctic meal, with options including salmon, elk, chicken, or vegetarian
• Visit the ice chapel and marvel at hand-carved ice sculptures
• Dress warmly, as the indoor temperature is maintained at 5°C
• Tour duration is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes

Visiting the Arctic Snowcastle in Rovaniemi

The Arctic Snowcastle is located about 25 km from Rovaniemi’s city center. The structure is impressive — grand, magnificent, and handmade by a renowned Lapland artist. Inside, the ice rooms are decorated with intricate carvings, creating a magical atmosphere that captures the essence of Lapland’s icy artistry. The ice chapel offers a peaceful setting with tranquil surroundings, perfect for sitting quietly and appreciating the Arctic silence.

The Snowcastle is more than just a hotel; it’s an art installation crafted with skill and passion. Visitors are awed by the meticulous carvings and creative design that make each room a piece of frozen art. The entire experience emphasizes local craftsmanship, making it a genuine Arctic highlight.

Exploring the Ice Hotel and Ice Chapel

The Ice Hotel within the Snowcastle features handmade ice sculptures that adorn the corridors and rooms. The ice chapel stands out as a serene space where visitors can sit and take in the peaceful Arctic ambiance. Sitting in the chapel allows for a moment of reflection amidst the tranquil environment created entirely from snow and ice.

The Ice Chapel and the hotel’s artistic carvings are made by a famous Lapland artist, whose craftsmanship is evident at every corner. The delightful carvings and detailed decoration combine to produce an elegant and mesmerizing setting, ideal for those who appreciate art and craftsmanship in cold environments.

Dining in the Ice Restaurant: A Three-Course Arctic Feast

The largest ice restaurant in Rovaniemi is located inside the Snowcastle, offering a unique dining experience. The three-course meal features local Arctic ingredients, including options such as salmon, elk, chicken, or vegetarian dishes. Guests should inform the booking of their preferred main course in advance.

The dining environment is as remarkable as the food, with the entire space made from ice, beautifully carved and lit to create an otherworldly ambiance. The food quality receives high praise, with dishes described as delicious and well-prepared. The experience combines gastronomy and artistry, making each bite feel special.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour departs from Maakuntakatu 29 in Rovaniemi, around 5:00 pm, with pickup times subject to seasonal adjustments. The guide speaks English by default, with other languages available upon request, including French, Italian, Spanish, and Chinese.

Transport is arranged via hotel pickup, making the journey to the Snowcastle comfortable and convenient. The group size is limited to 16 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. Notably, minimum numbers are required: 2 people on weekdays and Saturdays, and 4 on Sundays and public holidays.

Guests should dress warmly, as negative temperatures are common both outside and inside the castle. The winter clothing provided includes overall and boots, but bringing extra layers is recommended for comfort while sitting still for dinner.

What Makes the Snowcastle Experience Unique

The combination of craftsmanship, Arctic scenery, and culinary delight sets this tour apart. The Ice Restaurant is not just a place to eat but an artistic space that captures the magic of Lapland’s icy landscape. The handmade ice sculptures and serene ice chapel offer a visual feast and a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

The guided visit provides insights into ice art and the story of the Snowcastle’s construction, enriching the experience. The three-course Arctic meal allows for a taste of local flavors in an environment that feels like stepping into a frozen fairy tale.

The Experience for Different Visitors

This experience caters well to couples looking for a romantic Arctic evening, families with children over 12, and groups of friends seeking a memorable outing. The warm clothing and short duration make it accessible, but travelers should brace the cold environment and be prepared for the indoor temperature of 5°C.

The tour’s small group size ensures a cozy, intimate atmosphere, ideal for those wanting a more personal connection with the Arctic environment. The delicious food and artistic surroundings make this a highlight of any Lapland itinerary.

The Value and Considerations of the Arctic Snowcastle Tour

At $194, the tour offers a comprehensive Arctic experience that combines art, culture, and cuisine. The hotel transfers and guided visit enhance the value, making it a convenient and memorable outing. The free cancellation policy allows flexibility for changing plans, as long as cancellations are made at least 24 hours in advance.

While the indoor temperature might feel cold for some, the winter clothing supplied minimizes discomfort. The timing in the evening helps create a magical atmosphere, especially with the Arctic lights potentially visible in the sky.

Final Thoughts on the Arctic Snowcastle with Dinner

The Arctic Snowcastle with Dinner in Ice Restaurant offers a truly distinctive experience that combines artistic ice craftsmanship with delicious local cuisine. The guides’ expertise and the beautifully carved environment make it a highlight for anyone wanting to experience Lapland’s icy artistry.

While the cold environment requires some preparation, the warm clothing provided and the convenient logistics make this experience accessible and enjoyable. The delicious three-course meal and the serene ice chapel are memorable touches that will make this tour stand out in any Arctic itinerary.

This experience is perfect for those who appreciate art, craftsmanship, and Arctic scenery, and who want to enjoy a magical evening in a frozen wonderland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel transfers from Rovaniemi, making the journey comfortable and hassle-free.

What should I wear for this tour?
You should dress warmly for the negative temperatures inside the castle. Winter clothing (overall and boots) is provided.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including the visit and dinner.

Can I choose my main course?
Yes, you can select from salmon, elk, chicken, or vegetarian options, but you need to inform the booking in advance.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at Maakuntakatu 29 in Rovaniemi, with departure around 5:00 pm.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 12 must be accompanied by adults and are generally suitable if they can tolerate the cold environment.

What is the cancelation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before are not refundable.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides are available in French, Italian, Spanish, and Chinese upon request.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the maximum number of travelers is 16, ensuring a cozy experience.

What makes the Ice Restaurant special?
It is the largest ice restaurant in Rovaniemi, featuring handmade carvings and a magical atmosphere for a memorable dining experience.