Planning a trip to Lapland often involves dreaming of snow-covered landscapes, reindeer rides, and the iconic Santa Claus Village. One experience that truly captures the essence of Arctic magic is visiting Snowman World in Santa Claus Village, combined with a dinner in the Snow restaurant. While I haven’t personally done this tour, the detailed reviews, photos, and descriptions paint a vivid picture of what awaits.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to enjoy snow activities like ice skating and sliding on icy hills. Second, the unique setting of a restaurant built entirely from snow and ice—a dining environment unlike any other. Lastly, the opportunity to sip drinks from ice glasses and marvel at snow sculptures adds an extra layer of cool (literally and figuratively).
A potential consideration is the weather, which can influence opening hours or the availability of certain activities. It’s best suited for those who love winter adventures, cozy atmospheres, and memorable culinary experiences. Families, couples, or anyone looking for a distinctly Arctic outing will find this tour appealing.
Good To Know
- Snow Activities: Ice skating, ice tubing, and snow sculptures offer fun and photo opportunities.
- Unique Dining: Dine in a snow and ice-built restaurant offering a 3-course meal with local flavors.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Snow sculptures, ice bar, and icy furniture create an otherworldly setting.
- Convenient & Flexible: Skip lines, flexible booking, and wheelchair accessibility enhance the experience.
- Cost & Value: At $173 per person, it combines activities and a memorable meal, offering good value for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Expert Reviews: Guests praise the environment, food, and friendly staff, making it a highlight of their Lapland trip.
Introduction: What to Expect from this Arctic Adventure
If you’re heading to Rovaniemi, Snowman World and the Snow Restaurant promise a quintessential Arctic adventure. This experience blends snow-filled fun with gourmet dining, all set against the backdrop of Lapland’s frosty landscape.
The tour generally lasts around two hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the snow activities, explore snow art, and settle in for a remarkably atmospheric dinner. We love that this experience combines interactive fun with culinary charm, making it suitable for anyone wanting to add some icy sparkle to their trip.
One thing to keep in mind? The weather can impact the opening hours or availability of some activities, especially in the deep winter months. Dressing warmly is essential, as you’ll be outdoors between the snow activities and the indoor warmth of the ice restaurant.
This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a visual feast, a taste of local flavors, and a fun-filled, wintry environment. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want an unforgettable Arctic memory, it ticks many boxes.
More tours and activities we've covered in Rovaniemi
Exploring Snowman World in Santa Claus Village
The Snowman World attraction is the heart of this experience. Situated within Santa Claus Village, it offers a stunning landscape filled with artfully crafted snow sculptures and interactive snow play zones.
Theres some good ice skating on a frozen rink, which is surprisingly smooth and well-maintained—ideal for beginners and seasoned skaters alike. Reviewers note that the ice skating experience is enjoyable and adds a lively touch to the visit. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the large labyrinth slide—a favorite for those with kids or the young at heart.
For something more relaxed, the ice bar is a real highlight. Serving drinks in glasses carved from ice, it’s a photo-worthy moment and definitely a conversation starter. One reviewer mentions that the snow sculptures on the walls are particularly impressive, adding to the magical vibe of the scene.
Key point: The snow activities are designed to be accessible and fun, whether you want active pursuits or just to soak in the scenery. The group size often keeps things intimate enough for personal interaction, yet large enough to meet fellow travelers sharing your Arctic adventure.
Dine in the Snow: A Gourmet Experience in an Icy Setting
The Snow restaurant is arguably the star of the evening. Built entirely from snow and ice, it offers a mesmerizing environment, illuminated softly to enhance the icy textures and sculptures.
The menu features a 3-course meal, starting with a mushroom soup served with fresh bread—a comforting, warm start that balances out the chilly surroundings. The main course offers Lappish dishes, including the highly praised elk, which many reviewers mention as tasty and well-prepared. The meal concludes with a lingonberry-caramel bavaroise, blending local flavors into a sweet finish.
Multiple guests rave about the service and ambiance—describing the environment as “VIB” and the staff as friendly. One reviewer states, “The restaurant was great. Nice service and nice ambience.” The lighting and snow art on the walls contribute to the sense of dining in a fairytale.
A notable detail: The ice bar within the restaurant offers a chance to enjoy drinks in glasses made of ice, adding to the immersive experience. Though drinks aren’t included, you might find yourself tempted to try the local berry liqueurs or a warm drink to combat the cold.
Practicalities and Tips for Visiting
The tour is offered from December 6 through March 17 (weather permitting), with opening hours from 10:00 to 20:00 in winter months. Booking is straightforward, with options to reserve in advance and pay later, providing a flexible schedule.
The package includes entrance to Snowman World and the dinner, but drinks are not included. So, budget accordingly if you want to sample local spirits or warm beverages.
Dressing warmly is crucial—think thermal layers, hats, gloves, and insulated footwear—since you’ll be outdoors during the snow activities and briefly outside the restaurant. Many reviews mention bundling up to stay comfortable in the cold.
The experience is wheelchair accessible, which is great for travelers with mobility needs. Guides and staff are typically fluent in English and Finnish, ensuring smooth communication.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAuthentic Guest Experiences
Guest reviews highlight the value of the environment and food. One person proclaimed, “Really cool experience! It was a 3-course meal and just as described. I had the elk and everything was very tasty.” Others appreciated the vibe of the ice bar and the snow sculptures, describing them as both impressive and atmospheric.
The friendly staff and well-maintained facilities seem to leave a lasting impression. Guests also mention the “VIB” ambiance of the environment, which makes for memorable photos and a cozy, cinematic setting.
More tours and activities we've covered in Rovaniemi
- Arctic Snowcastle With Dinner in Ice Restaurant
- Full Day Lapland Tour, Including Lunch and Dinner
- Glass Igloo Campfire Dinner Under Northern Lights
- Best of Lapland: Sauna, Ice Swimming, Dinner & Northern Lights
- Rovaniemi Private Northern Lights Tour With Fireside Dinner
- Campfire Tour With Huskies and Dinner
The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Experience?
This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a memorable Arctic adventure that combines snowy fun with exquisite dining. It’s particularly perfect if you love interactive outdoor activities like ice skating or sliding, and if you’re eager to experience dining in a snow-and-ice environment.
Families will enjoy the playful snow activities and spectacular sculptures, while couples or groups of friends will appreciate the atmosphere, unique food, and ice bar experience. The professional guides and accessible facilities make it a smooth and enjoyable outing.
While the cost of $173 per person might seem steep, the combination of activities and a memorable meal offers good value—especially when considering the distinctive setting and the chance to create lasting Arctic memories.
If you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and delicious way to spend part of your Lapland adventure, this experience ticks many boxes. Just remember to bundle up, bring your camera, and prepare for a chilly but enchanting journey into the world of snow and ice.
FAQ
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, families often enjoy the snow activities and the snow sculptures; just ensure kids are dressed warmly.
How long does the tour last?
The tour generally lasts around two hours, which gives enough time for snow activities and dining.
Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included in the ticket price. You can purchase beverages at the ice bar or within the restaurant.
Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.
What should I wear?
Dress in warm, layered clothing, including thermal wear, hats, gloves, and insulated footwear.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility.
Are the snow activities suitable for all ages?
Most activities like ice skating and tubing are suitable for all ages, but always check the safety guidelines for children.
When is the best time to visit?
The experience operates from December through mid-March, with the best snow and ice conditions typically in January and February.
This Arctic experience offers a blend of snow-filled adventure and gourmet delight that’s truly unique to Lapland. It’s an immersive way to embrace the cold, marvel at stunning snow art, and enjoy a cozy, magical dinner in the heart of winter.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Dining Tours in Rovaniemi
- Rovaniemi: Private Glass Igloo Dinner Under Northern Lights
- Rovaniemi: Private Sauna, Jacuzzi and Dinner
- Lapland Full Day Tour With Lunch & Dinner
- Rovaniemi: Traditional Finnish Sauna & Dinner Autumn
- Romantic Glass Igloo Dinner Under Northern Lights
- From Rovaniemi: Snowhotel Aurora Experience With Dinner
More Tickets in Rovaniemi
More Tour Reviews in Rovaniemi
Looking for something different? Other Rovaniemi activities we've written about
- Visit Ranua Wildlife Park with Photographer
- Rovaniemi: Traditional Sauna and Ice Swimming Experience
- Snow Activities and reindeer feeding in nature
- Rovaniemi: Unique Private Lakeside wooden Sauna Experience
- Rovaniemi:Private Aurora Tour-Unlimited Miliage
- Rovaniemi: Snowshoeing in a magical snowy forest
- Rovaniemi: Snowy Forest Night Hike with Northern Lights
- Rovaniemi: Tour to Santa Claus Village with Hotel pick up
- Rovaniemi: Traditional Finnhorse Sleigh Ride at SCV (3km)
- Rovaniemi: Tour to Santa Claus Village with Hotel Transfer
- Rovaniemi: Yoga Class with Infrared Heaters and Herbal Tea
- Rovaniemi: Trip to Ranua Zoo with Tickets