Embark on an unforgettable 4-night journey to Alta, Norway, a land of breathtaking Arctic landscapes and captivating cultural experiences. This exclusive itinerary combines thrilling adventures with the cosy charm of a private cabin at Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Nestled amidst the stunning scenery of the Arctic wilderness, stay for 3-nights in the Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge providing the perfect base for your adventure. You'll enjoy the comfort and privacy of your own cabin, a warm and inviting retreat after exhilarating days exploring the snowy wonderland. Your last night will be spent in the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, experience the thrill of the Arctic with a stay in the Igloo Room at the world’s Northernmost igloo hotel. This meticulously crafted itinerary is designed to immerse you in the magic of the Arctic, offering a diverse range of experiences: Snowmobiling through the Wilderness: Navigate snow trails on a thrilling snowmobile adventure (Activities are dependant on date of travel). Explore the vast landscapes and witness the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Dog Sledding Excursion: Experience the magic of dog sledding, a traditional Arctic mode of transport. Team up with a pack of energetic huskies and glide through the silent, snow-covered forests, connect with nature and witness the incredible bond between humans and these amazing animals.
Enchantment of the Igloo Hotel: Embark on a guided tour of the world-famous Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel. Marvel at the intricate ice sculptures and learn about the unique construction and operation of this remarkable winter wonderland. Perhaps even enjoy a drink at the ice bar!
Sámi Culture and Reindeer Encounter: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the indigenous Sámi people. Experience a traditional reindeer sled ride and learn about their fascinating history, customs, and connection to the Arctic environment. This cultural encounter offers a unique insight into a way of life deeply intertwined with the land.
Chasing the Northern Lights: Under the vast Arctic sky, embark on a magical Northern Lights hunt. Away from the city lights, you’ll have the best chance of witnessing the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis dancing across the heavens. This breathtaking spectacle is a truly unforgettable highlight of your trip. (Northern Lights sightings are subject to weather conditions and solar activity.)
*Prices starting from
Overview
Highlights
- Snowmobile Tour
- Polar Night Bonfire
- Aurora chase on snowshoes – optional extra
- Self-drive dog sledding
- Mountain sledding
- Guided tour of the igloo hotel – optional extra
- Sámi and reindeer experience under the Northern Lights (Seasonal Dates) – optional extra
What’s included
- 3-nights with breakfast in a private cabin at Bjørnfjell Mountain
Lodge - 1-night in an Igloo Double Room – Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel (2 People) For 2 Adults and 2 Children: Family room – Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel
- Snowmobile tour or Nordic skiing (Seasonal Dates)
- Polar Night Bonfire
- Self-drive dog sledding
- Northern Lights Hunting
- Breakfast, Lunch and Evening Meals
- Transfers from Airport to the lodge and back
Optional Extras
- Sámi and reindeer experience
- Option to upgrade to Private Transfers and Private Tours
- Guided tour of the igloo hotel
- Aurora chase on snowshoes
A note on flights
While flights are not included in the holiday price, our team will happily provide a quote and arrange them for you. Simply ask one of our Travel Experts for details of the available options.
Day by Day Itinerary
Arrival in the Arctic and Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge
Your Arctic adventure begins today! Upon arrival at Alta Airport (ALF), you’ll be greeted by your guide for your private transfer, to whisk you away to the beautiful Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge.
As you settle into your private cabin for the next few days, take some time to unpack and familiarise yourself with the lodge’s amenities. Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge is known for its warm hospitality and stunning location. One of the highlights of your stay is the complimentary provision of high-quality warm clothing, ensuring you’re comfortable and prepared for the Arctic climate. Take this opportunity to try on your new gear and make sure everything fits perfectly, ready for your Arctic explorations.
In the evening, indulge in a delicious 3-course dinner at the lodge’s restaurant. Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge prides itself on its culinary offerings, featuring local specialties and international favorites, all prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. After dinner, relax by the fireplace in the cosy lounge, perhaps sharing stories with fellow guests, or step outside to admire the stunning Arctic scenery surrounding the lodge.
Keep an eye on the sky – if the conditions are right, you might catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights. Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge’s location, nestled amidst the mountains, is ideal for aurora viewing, away from light pollution. The lodge staff will be on hand to offer guidance and information about this breathtaking natural phenomenon, and perhaps even share some local folklore surrounding the Aurora Borealis.
Enjoy your first night in the Arctic at the beautiful Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge, surrounded by the tranquility of nature and the anticipation of the adventures to come!
Arctic Adventures - Snowmobiles and a Polar night bonfire
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the lodge, fueling you for a day of exciting activities.
Depending on the time of year, you’ll have the opportunity to experience one of the Arctic’s most thrilling adventures:
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Snowmobile Tour (approx. 3h, shared tour, 2 pax per snowmobile): Available from the 1st January up to the 1st April, this exhilarating tour will take you through the stunning Arctic landscape. Share a snowmobile with a companion and explore the snowy trails, feeling the rush of adrenaline as you navigate the winter wonderland. This is a thrilling adventure! Exploring the beautiful arctic nature in the midst of the Finnmark tundra with a snowmobile. Your journey begins at the Bjornfjell Lobby, where you will meet your guide and receive warm overalls and instructions on how to safely operate the snowmobiles on this exciting adventure. You will start your journey as you drive from the deep green forest up to the open Finnmarksvidda. Surf on the snow between pine trees and birches and experience the breathtaking view of the Mountains surrounding you
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An alternative to Snowmobiling – An Introduction to Nordic Skiing (approx. 2h, shared): For those visiting in December and after April 1st, or who prefer a different kind of adventure, an introduction to Nordic skiing awaits. Learn the basics of this traditional Scandinavian activity and glide through the serene landscape. Gather at the reception area to meet your guide. They’ll assist you with the necessary equipment and then provide instructions, teaching you the fundamentals of cross-country skiing, Norwegian style! Near the ski center, there’s a beginner-friendly track available. For those with more experience, the guide can take you to higher elevations on the mountain where you’ll find tracks tailored for advanced skiers.
After your morning adventures, return to the lodge for a delicious 2-course lunch, replenishing your energy for the afternoon’s relaxation.
Optional Extra Add On:
Enjoy private access to the wellness lounge, where you can unwind and rejuvenate after your active morning. A delightful Norwegian snack platter will be provided, allowing you to sample local delicacies while you soak in the tranquil atmosphere. This experience lasts approximately 2 hours.
As evening approaches, embark on a magical Polar Night Bonfire Trip (approx. 3-4h, shared). Venture out into the darkness and gather around a crackling bonfire, surrounded by the stillness of the Arctic night. This is a perfect opportunity to socialise with fellow travellers, share stories, and perhaps even witness the Northern Lights if the conditions are right.
Dog Sledding and Aurora Hunting
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the lodge, preparing you for an unforgettable day of adventures.
Today, you’ll embark on a self-drive dog sledding adventure (approx. 2.5h, shared tour, 2 persons per sled). This is your chance to take the reins and lead your own team of huskies through the breathtaking Arctic wilderness. Feel the thrill of the dogs pulling you across the snow-covered landscape, and experience the unique bond between human and animal. Join a team of Alaskan Huskies and let them take you on an unforgettable ride through the stunning Northern-Norwegian nature around Alta. You will be take out onto the tracks where they train the race dogs into athletes, along the Alta River and the path where Europe’s best mushers race towards the finish line for the famous Finnmarkslopet. After your exhilarating ride, warm up with a delicious lunch at the barn, included in your tour. Transfers to and from the dog sledding location are also provided.
Return to the lodge to relax and freshen up before another delightful culinary experience. A delicious 3-course dinner awaits you at the lodge’s restaurant, offering a chance to savour more local flavors and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Optional Extra Add On:
As darkness falls, prepare for an exciting Aurora Chase on Snowshoes (approx. 2.5-3h, shared). Venture out into the Arctic night, equipped with snowshoes to explore the landscape under the starry sky. Your guide will lead you to prime viewing spots, away from any light pollution, maximizing your chances of witnessing the magical Aurora Borealis. The quiet of the night, the crunch of snow beneath your snowshoes, and the potential to see the Northern Lights, make this a truly unforgettable Arctic experience.
Mountain Sledding, Igloo Hotel, and Sámi Culture
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the lodge, fueling up for another exciting day of Arctic adventures.
This morning, get ready for some fun on the slopes with Mountain Sledding (approx. 2h, shared). Enjoy the thrill of racing down the mountain on a sled, taking in the stunning views as you go. It’s a fantastic way to experience the Arctic landscape in a fun and engaging way. After your sledding adventure, return to the lodge for a well-deserved 2-course lunch, replenishing your energy for the afternoon’s explorations. Take the ski lift to the top of the mountain and from there you’ll reach a special track dedicated
to mountain sledding. Race down the mountain and enjoy power sliding through the snow
Following lunch, a private transfer will whisk you away to the renowned Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel. Prepare to be amazed by this incredible feat of engineering and artistry.
Optional Extra Add On:
A guided tour of the igloo hotel (approx. 1h, shared), including an ice drink and entrance. Explore the intricately designed ice rooms and marvel at the craftsmanship that goes into creating this unique accommodation. Come and visit the World’s Northernmost Igloo Hotel and admire this magical world of snow and ice. This hotel is built new again each year. Everything inside the hotel, the ice bar, the chapel and gallery room, is made 100% out of snow and ice. The tour guide will tell you all about the building process. Whilst admiring the ice sculptures you will finish your tour with an ice drink, served in an ice glass around the bonfire.
In the evening, indulge in a truly special dining experience with a 3-course fine dining meal at Maku restaurant, located at Sorrisniva. Savor exquisite dishes prepared with local ingredients, while enjoying the elegant ambiance of this exceptional restaurant.
3-course fine dining at Maku restaurant: Maku means “Taste” in Kven Language. Situated in the Arctic Wilderness Lodge the Maku Restaurant offers a fantastic culinary experience whilst overlooking the Alta River and surrounding wilderness. The fine dining menu in our new Maku Restaurant provides a culinary adventure that your tastebuds will never forget. The menu at Maku changes with the Arctic seasons and brings the finest ingredients gathered from nature’s larder into the Arctic Wilderness Lodge, where you will witness our talented chefs create a feast before your eyes from the open kitchen.
Optional Extra Add On:
After dinner, you can immerse yourself in Sámi culture with a unique Sámi and Reindeer Experience under the Northern Lights (approx. 1.5h, shared). Learn about the traditions and customs of the indigenous Sámi people, and have the opportunity to interact with reindeer. If the skies are clear, this is a truly magical setting to witness the Aurora Borealis, adding another layer of wonder to this cultural experience.
This extra experience is only available from December 9th to March 31st.
Finally, a private transfer will bring you back to Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s diverse and memorable activities.
Returning Home
Enjoy one last leisurely breakfast at Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge, savouring the final moments of your Arctic adventure. Reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve enjoyed, from the thrill of snowmobiling and dog sledding to the magic of the Northern Lights and the cultural immersion of the Sámi experience.
After breakfast, it’s time to check out of your private cabin. Your private transfer will be waiting to take you to Alta Airport (ALF) for your departure. As you journey to the airport, take one last look at the stunning Arctic landscape, etching the memories of its beauty and tranquility into your mind.
We hope you leave with a heart full of unforgettable experiences and a longing to return to this magical corner of the world. Safe travels home!
Where You'll Stay
Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel
The Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel was the second of its kind and is the World’s Northernmost Igloo Hotel. Each year our experienced artists and builders come together to build a new and unique hotel with a special theme. The Igloo Hotel has an area of 2,500 m2 and it takes 250 tonnes of ice and 7,000 m3 of snow to build it. We harvest the ice from Sierravann, which is only a few kilometers further into the Alta Valley from Sorrisniva, and we produce the snow using the water from the famous Alta River located only meters away from the hotel.
The Igloo Hotel is open from mid/end December until the beginning of April for overnight stays and visitations. Experience the thrill of the Arctic with a stay in the Igloo Room at the world’s northernmost igloo hotel.
Constructed entirely from large ice blocks and snow, the Igloo Double Room offers an authentic Arctic experience. The centerpiece of the room is an extra-large ice bed, topped with an insulated mattress and soft reindeer hides to keep you warm and cozy throughout the night. Staying in an Igloo Room is your chance to immerse yourself in a true winter wonderland, where the beauty of ice and snow surrounds you, and the Arctic adventure begins right at your doorstep.
The Igloo Family Room consists of two connecting double rooms with a king-size bed (240 cm wide), a bed frame made of ice and a real mattress covered in reindeer hides.
Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge
With its location amongst mountains and open landscape, the area catches the spirit of skiers, hikers, Northern Lights enthusiasts, families, and more. The accommodation lies 379 km above the arctic circle, and 20 km away from Alta City Center, which makes it a stunning location to be engulfed by open nature and natural phenomenons.
Nestled in the heart of the Arctic, Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge exhibits a deep-rooted connection to Norwegian farming traditions and cabin culture. On average, Norwegians spend 60 days a year in cabins—a cherished part of their cultural heritage. In earlier times, farmers would take their livestock to graze in the mountains each summer, living in small cabins where they relied on homemade foods, gathered berries, and nature’s offerings to sustain them. At Bjørnfjell Mountain Lodge, we invite you to experience this authentic Norwegian cabin lifestyle. Stay cozy in one of our private cabins or in a room at the main lodge while immersing yourself in the beauty of the surrounding Arctic nature.
The ski slopes and mountain tubing are only a few of the options available for young and old to enjoy together. The lodge is a home away from home and offers a cozy lounge and restaurant area where your warm loafers will be ready for you upon arrival. The views from the lodge are magnificent and reach as far as Alta fjord. All you have to do on a clear night is step outside an gaze at the stars or the lights. The rooms are decorated with natural materials and warm and calming colors. From your window you can see the surrounding nature and spectacular landscape that Bjørnfjell is situated within. The main lodge has several common areas such as the restaurant, lounge, outdoor seating, and of course the great outdoors. Craft your own adventure during the day, and return to a good night’s rest. Norwegian cabin culture places emphasis on being social and active with those you’re travelling with. In this sense, the private cabins are
geared towards a restful night, yet encourage you to spend time during the day being social or out in nature. Our private cabins that feature 4 beds with fully equipped kitchen, a loft, a dining area, a living area, and a fireplace. There are window seats that let you feel close to the outside world while staying in the comfort of your cozy cabin.
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See what our clients say
I found Aurora nights just through a google search. Alex, my Aurora expert was so helpful in helping us have the perfect trip to the Arctic. He had personal experience of the activities and places to visit there that would make our trip really special. This followed through to a particularly unforgettable and wonderful holiday. Everything was sent to us with care and attention before hand and we were supported by the team throughout our holiday. All of the recomendations were wonderful especially the Ice Hotel, dog sledding and of course the beautiful Northern Lights. The transportation arrived on time every time. I would highly recomend this company for their experience in the field and their due care and attention to you as a customer. It was faultless and we had the most awesome time.
This was a bucket list trip. The company are specialists and I’ve valued their advice. Everything from the when to go for the best opportunity to see the lights and equipment needed and provided.Our activities included, the Ice Hotel, night photo shoot, snowmobiling, guided walk and the sky station meal. All excellent and well run by knowledgeable experts and guides. The Abisko Lodge is warm comfortable and relaxing the food is excellent and the staff welcoming, friendly and very helpful. I would highly recommend if you’re looking for a different and exciting experience.
We booked with Aurora for a short winter break to celebrate an event. We wanted something special and that’s what we got. Clear information was backed up with straightforward booking detail, and we had a super, holiday with no complications.
The holiday exceeded my expectations and I will use Aurora in the future. Thank you!
This vacation has without without doubt, has been the best experience we have ever had. The organisation from the minute we landed in Kiruna until we departed at the close of our trip was second to none. The transition between hotels was always seamless and punctual. Everywhere we stayed was beautifully clean and the meals were top quality. Every driver was polite, entertaining and very knowledgeable, furnishing us with invaluable information about Sweden and the activities in which we were to participate. The snowmobiling was wonderful giving access via our guide, to stunning panoramic views of the mountain whilst viewing reindeer in their natural habitat.
Our guide demonstrated how to use the snowmobile safely he was pleasant and informative. When visiting the reindeer on the Sami reservation; we found the brother and sister team who hosted lovely. Again they were so hospitable and helpful and feeding the reindeer up close was a wonderful experience.
They provided additional activities for us to try and we were treated to a traditional Sami lunch in their hut. They provided us with invaluable information appertaining to their culture and caring for their reindeer. The reindeer were in superb condition and happy in their environment. Similarly, when out with the dog sleds the experience was magical. Two hours of beautiful scenery, and frozen lakes, finishing with a one-on-one experience massaging the dogs. Magic! We were so impressed with the care that was placed upon ensuring the dogs were comfortable, well-nourished and so loved by their owners/handlers.
Now to the photographic experience. A large group of us were treated to a demonstration of how to operate some serious camera equipment with tripod. Each of us was loaned the camera and given assistance setting up the camera on a frozen lake in preparation for the appearance of the Northern Lights. We were taken to this lake on large wooden sleighs pulled by a snowmobile. We cannot speak too highly of the two young men who accompanied us on this experience. They could not do enough for us. They were there to offer assistance with our cameras throughout the two-plus hours we were on this beautiful lake.
They advised where to position the camera and when the Lights appeared, what a performance. We had a two-hour display of this most breathtaking phenomenon. We were so fortunate to be able to experience this once-in-a-lifetime occurrence for which we are so grateful. We will never forget this memorable holiday and cannot thank you and everyone who assisted in making a lifetime dream come true. Karen & Andrew Adamson
We had the most fabulous time and everything worked like clockwork. The guides were extremely knowledgeable and extremely competent. The food was excellent and the experiences, especially Husky Homes, were brilliant. We saw the aurora lights at the mountain top in Abisko where the photography tour will be an enduring memory of a wonderful time. I would very much recommend Weekend a la Carte as a proficient tour operator.
Thoroughly enjoyed the trip. The Abisko Mountain Lodge was fantastic, every member of staff was friendly welcoming and charming. Accommodation, upgraded room was excellent. The food in the lodge definitely deserves the high reviews. Good breakfast, great hime made lunch soups and extremely tasty evening dinners.
The included trips were great. The only let down was the camera night, couldn’t see the lights no one fault, but we were walked through thigh high snow to be left on a frozen lake for the duration of the trip. There was no warning of the difficult walk and we had a 91 year old with us and I have hip problems! That said the guide was great, as were the ones on the skimobile and husky rides. We went up to the sky station in a snow storm with high winds, added to the experience!
Would go back in a heart beat.
We had little communication with Weekend a la carte, no need as all communications were clear and contained all the information we needed. Very informative emails
Would use again if going back
1. Gourmet Cabins was excellent and Johan was a friendly and knowledgeable host. The food, cabins, hot tub and sauna were brilliant.
2. Dog sledge was a fantastic experience and we were given the opportunity to drive our own sledge
3. Snow Mobile – really got off the beaten track and into the spectacular mountains
4. Saw the Northern Lights twice in two days. There is no description that can really do them justice
We had a fantastic 4 nights that included glaciers, waterfalls, geysers, the aurora borealis and more! Lovely hotels, especially Hotel Ranga. We filled every moment and felt thoroughly invigorated on our return.