Have a Drink at the Kirkenes Ice Bar

The most notable of all Kirkenes bars and cafes is undoubtedly the Kirkenes Ice Bar, located right inside the Snow Hotel in Kirkenes. Keep in mind the hotel is temporary and being re-built each year, as it is entirely made out of snow (or more accurately of ice blocks gathered from the nearby lake), so its existence is possible only during the winter months, when the temperatures are constantly below the freezing point.

The Atmosphere

Visiting the Ice Bar is a truly unique experience. Just like the hotel, the entire bar is made of ice blocks and this includes not only the furniture, but also the glasses that your drinks are served in. The bar is lit by purple and blue lights, which create a magnificent winter atmosphere. You have probably never seen bar staff dressed like this. All the bartenders (usually beautiful local women) are dressed in thick fur coats and wear funny caps. In addition, they are very polite and friendly.

The Drinks

The bar offers an extensive selection of high-quality strong alcoholic drinks, usually served in shot glasses. Various cocktails are prepared as well, just like in a regular bar. The Ice Bar specialty is the shot called “Rudolph's Revenge”. It is a cocktail prepared of half vodka and half crawberry juice, and served ice cold. It is tasty and you can easily loose the count of the number of shots you've had, so be careful.