I could not wait to discover the stunning beauty of Alta, Norway, and embark on an exhilarating snow scooter safari. Nestled in the heart of Norway’s Arctic region, Alta is a captivating destination renowned for its mesmerizing landscapes and thrilling winter adventures.
As we travelled north through Norway we were eager to get to the enchanting world of Alta and have an unforgettable snow scooter safari experience. Breathtaking snow-covered vistas, adrenaline-pumping rides, and encounters with the magical Northern Lights.
A day of speed on the snow followed by drinks in the bar of the ice hotel. Perfect!
Alta, Finnmark
Alta is a captivating place located in Finnmark, Norway. It is a destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the moment I arrived in Alta, I was immediately captivated by its picturesque snowy landscapes and the welcoming atmosphere.
One of the highlights of Alta is undoubtedly the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. The town is situated in the heart of the auroral oval, making it an ideal location to witness this mesmerizing natural phenomenon. Standing under the dancing lights of the Northern Lights is an experience that words cannot fully describe.
Aside from its enchanting natural wonders, Alta has a rich cultural heritage. The town is home to the UNESCO-listed Alta Museum, which houses ancient rock carvings dating back thousands of years. Exploring these ancient carvings was like stepping back in time and getting a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of our ancestors.
Furthermore, Alta offers a range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. Whether it’s hiking through scenic trails, kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of the Alta River, or exploring the majestic Alta Canyon, there is no shortage of opportunities to immerse oneself in nature.
The local cuisine in Alta is a delightful fusion of traditional Norwegian flavors and modern culinary techniques. From fresh seafood to reindeer dishes, every meal was a delightful exploration of local flavors and ingredients.
Snow Scooter Safari
Well here we were, ready to experience the thrill of a snow scooter safari in Alta, Norway. A snow scooter safari is an exhilarating adventure that allows you to explore the pristine wilderness in a unique way. Hopping on a powerful snow scooter and embark on a thrilling ride across the snowy landscapes of Alta.
I had always wanted to do a snow scooter ride in the Arctic Circle and here was my chance. These snow scooters are designed to navigate through the snow-covered terrains, allowing you to venture into untouched landscapes. This means you can discover hidden gems and explore areas that are inaccessible by other means of transport.
One of the key advantages of a snow scooter safari is the adrenaline rush it offers. I had had an adrenalin filled day just a few days earlier on the Lillehammer Bobsleigh run but here we go again as you zip through the snow at high speeds, you’ll feel the wind on your face and the excitement coursing through your veins. It’s an experience that combines the thrill of speed with the beauty of the winter wilderness.
In addition to the adrenaline rush, a snow scooter safari in Alta, Norway provides stunning panoramic views of the snowy landscapes. You’ll witness breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and majestic forests. It’s a visual feast that immerses you in the beauty of nature.
Planning a Snow Scooter Safari in Alta
The best time to visit Alta for a snow scooter safari is generally from December to April. During this period, the region experiences heavy snowfall and offers ideal conditions for snow scooter adventures. It is important to note that the exact timing may vary depending on weather conditions and the availability of snow.
Sorrisniva Igloo, Ice Hotel
The Sorrisniva Igloo, Ice Hotel in Alta is the northernmost Igloo Hotel in the world. What better place to head to for a drink and rest after a day racing around over the arctic snow. This hotel is constructed entirely out of ice and snow, providing a truly immersive Arctic experience.
From the moment you step inside, you’ll be amazed by the intricate ice sculptures and stunning ice architecture that adorn the hotel. Each year, skilled ice artists come together to create a new and captivating design, ensuring that no two visits are the same.
The hotel features comfortable ice rooms, complete with ice beds and ice furniture, all covered in warm reindeer skins to keep you cozy throughout the night. Despite the chilly surroundings, the hotel provides warm sleeping bags and thermal clothing to ensure a comfortable stay.
In addition to the ice rooms, the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay. You can enjoy a meal at the ice restaurant, where even the tables and chairs are made of ice. The hotel also boasts an ice bar, serving refreshing drinks in glasses made entirely of ice.
That was the order of the day for us. Blue Vodkas please!
Conclusion
What a day. Exploring the snow and ice wilderness around Alta, Norway on an adrenalin filled snow scooter safari, followed by drinks in the bar of the world’s northernmost Ice Hotel.
A day that more memories were made that is for sure.
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Hi,
very nice blog with much experience.
I like it very much and want see often what is new.
Many thanks and best regards
Mallika with husband Volker Otto Gerhard
So before seeing the Northern Lights you were staying at an Ice Hotel!
What an amazing experience! This entire Norway trip looks like a dream.
Thanks for sharing Paul
Stunning photos, Paul. But let me ask the obvious noob question. Is there no heating of any kind allowed inside the hotel? Or do they need to make running repairs whenever someone takes a shower?
Absolutely breathtaking photos – Norway is definitely high on my list of places to visit now 🙂