This Amazing Restaurant Is Made Entirely From Snow

In 1996 the people of Kemi decided to build a snow castle as a gift to all the children of the world. That first castle drew over 300,000 visitors and was such a success that they did it again the next year, and every year since. Each time a different architect has been used, thus making each castle unique and different. And come the spring, it all melts away.

As well as the snow restaurant, there’s also a snow chapel, which is popular as a wedding venue, and a snow hotel, where guests can spend the night. There’s also ice sculptures, as well as other exhibitions. The area makes a great base for exploring, with plenty of other activities on offer in the region, such as a cruise on an ice breaker.

Seated on fur-topped tree stumps and sat at a table made of solid ice must rank as a pretty unique dining experience. But the ice theme doesn’t stop there, even the drinks – made from pressed local berries – are served in solid ice cups. For something a little warmer, mulled wine and hot chocolate are provided, and if you fancy something stronger, the restaurant is fully licensed.

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The food is broad in range and simple in design so that there’s something for every visitor, but of particular note is the Snow Castle Feast (€58). This starts with a warming vegetable soup, followed by fillet of reindeer, vegetables and a sauce made with loganberries. A dessert of cranberry mousse cake brings things to a close. If you fancy something a bit lighter, then a simple lunch menu featuring Finnish pasties and soups is available.

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If you want to visit the Snow Castle, it opens in January 2018. See www.visitkemi.fi/en/snowcastle for more details.