With activities like dogsledding, whale safaris, and hunting for the northern lights, the Lappland and Northern Norway region is a natural destination for travelers with kids. Most area lodging readily caters to groups and families—here are four of the best options, from Tromsø hotels to traditional tents in the wilderness.
## Exploring Family-Friendly Accommodations in Lapland and Northern Norway: A Detailed Guide
Lapland and Northern Norway offer a unique and unforgettable experience for families seeking adventure and breathtaking natural beauty. Finding the right accommodation is key to ensuring a comfortable and memorable trip. From modern hotels in bustling cities to traditional cottages nestled beside fjords, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. This guide provides a more in-depth look at some fantastic family-friendly lodging options in the region, ensuring your vacation is nothing short of extraordinary.
### Thon Hotel Polar: Your Tromsø Home Base
One of the significant advantages of choosing a reputable hotel chain like Thon Hotels is the consistency and reliability they offer. No matter where your travels take you, you can expect a certain standard of quality and service. In the case of **Thon Hotel Polar** in Tromsø, that translates to beautifully appointed, clean rooms that provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for families with children.
**Thon Hotel Polar** stands out for its incredibly central location right in the heart of downtown Tromsø. This prime spot makes it an ideal starting point for many of the exciting winter tours the area has to offer. Imagine stepping out of your hotel and being just moments away from thrilling dog sledding adventures, mesmerizing northern lights chases, or exhilarating snowmobiling expeditions. The convenience extends to transportation as well, with close proximity to the airport bus stop, making arrivals and departures seamless.
Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities at **Thon Hotel Polar**. Many Thon hotels offer dedicated family rooms designed to provide ample space and comfort for everyone. Some even feature small play areas specifically for younger children, ensuring they have a fun and engaging space to unwind after a day of exploration. With a mid-tier price range (typically under 900KR for a family room), **Thon Hotel Polar** provides excellent value for its central location and family-friendly offerings. It’s a safe and reliable choice for families seeking a comfortable and convenient base in Tromsø. The hotel provides a delicious, complimentary breakfast that sets you up perfectly for a full day of touring.
### Manndalen Sjoebuer: Embrace Coastal Charm on the Lyngenfjord
For families seeking a more authentic and immersive experience, **Manndalen Sjoebuer** offers a unique opportunity to stay in a traditional fishing hut-turned-cottage right on the breathtaking Lyngenfjord. These charming cottages provide a glimpse into the region’s rich maritime history while offering all the modern comforts you need for a relaxing stay.
Imagine waking up to stunning views of the Lyngenfjord, with its crystal-clear waters and majestic mountains. The cottages at **Manndalen Sjoebuer** are designed in a classic cabin style, featuring full kitchens that allow you to prepare your own meals and enjoy a sense of home away from home. WiFi is also included, ensuring you can stay connected and share your incredible experiences with loved ones.
While the cottages offer a secluded and peaceful setting, they are located approximately two hours outside of Tromsø. However, the journey is well worth it for the opportunity to experience the tranquility and beauty of village life in Northern Norway. The small village of Manndalen has a population of only around 900, providing a genuine glimpse into the local culture and way of life.
The price for a stay at **Manndalen Sjoebuer** is roughly equivalent to that of a standard hotel in the city, but you get so much more for your money. The spacious cottages, stunning views, and immersive experience make it an excellent choice for families seeking a unique and memorable adventure. If you’re willing to make the short trek, you and your children will be rewarded with a truly unforgettable taste of Northern Norway.
### Lyngen Experience AS: Luxury Amidst Fjord Majesty
If you’re looking to indulge in a truly luxurious experience, and your budget allows, the apartments at **Lyngen Experience AS** are an exceptional choice. These modern apartments offer a unique blend of comfort, style, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Imagine stepping into an igloo that has been completely reimagined and upgraded to the highest standards of contemporary design. That’s the feeling you’ll get when you enter one of the six stunning units at **Lyngen Experience AS**. Each apartment boasts panoramic views of the fjord and mountains, bringing the stunning landscapes of Northern Norway right to your doorstep.
With two-, three-, and four-room options available, you can choose the perfect apartment to accommodate your family’s needs. Each unit is equipped with all the amenities you could possibly desire for a comfortable and convenient stay, whether you’re planning a short getaway or an extended vacation.
**Lyngen Experience AS** offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Lyngenfjord while enjoying the utmost in luxury and comfort. It’s an experience that will create lasting memories for your entire family.
### Snowhotel Kirkenes: A Winter Wonderland of Ice and Snow
For a truly unique and unforgettable experience, consider a stay at the **Snowhotel Kirkenes**. This remarkable ice hotel offers a magical winter wonderland setting that will captivate both children and adults alike.
Imagine being surrounded by ice but feeling completely warm and cozy. The **Snowhotel Kirkenes** features 20 intricately designed ice rooms, a stunning ice restaurant, and an impressive main building adorned with incredible ice sculptures. The enchanting, sprawling grounds are home to resident reindeer and huskies, adding to the magical atmosphere.
Families can choose to stay in specially designed family igloos that can accommodate up to five guests. And with a special rate for children 12 and under (half the regular price), it’s an affordable way to experience this extraordinary destination.
In addition to the ice hotel itself, **Snowhotel Kirkenes** offers a range of exciting activities, including king crab fishing in the nearby fjord. This is a truly unique and immersive experience that will create lasting memories for your family.
### Camp Tamok: Embrace Sámi Culture in the Arctic Wilderness
For families seeking a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage, a stay at **Camp Tamok by Lyngsfjord Adventure** offers a unique opportunity to experience Sámi culture firsthand.
The Sámi are one of Europe’s northernmost Indigenous people, with a rich history and unique way of life. At **Camp Tamok**, you can stay in a traditional *lavvu*, or tent, and learn about Sámi traditions and customs.
Far from the lights of civilization, a stay in a lavvu provides an unforgettable, authentic experience and is a great base for spotting the aurora borealis. Perfect for kids 12 and older, a stay in the lavvu at **Camp Tamok** can be coupled with ice fishing, dogsledding, and other traditional winter-weather activities. Sleep in ultra-warm winter sleeping bags on beds of reindeer skins that will keep you warm even when temperatures dip below zero. Note that the lavvu here is a large group tent with separate sleeping berths that you will share with other guests.
If you want a more private experience or have younger kids with you, there are also 2 comfortable cabins available for rent. **Camp Tamok** is located south of Tromsø near the Swedish border.
### Hotel Hullu Poro & Hotel Taivaanvalkeat: Budget-Friendly Comfort Inland
For budget-conscious travelers, there are plenty of excellent accommodation options available inland. **Hotel Hullu Poro** (Finnish for “reindeer”) is a fantastic example, offering all the amenities of a big city hotel at a fraction of the price.
Located near the Finnish-Norwegian-Swedish border, **Hotel Hullu Poro** offers family rooms and apartments, welcomes pets, and even features some rooms with saunas and/or balconies. You’ll be right in the heart of Levi, surrounded by tons of trails for walking, hiking, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
**Hotel Taivaanvalkeat** (operated by the same company) is five miles away and offers similar amenities with one key difference: no street lights, just scenery. If the kiddos can handle it, this is a great option, too. Both hotels provide a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the beautiful landscapes of Lapland.
These family-friendly lodging options in Lapland and Northern Norway offer a diverse range of experiences, ensuring that every family can find the perfect accommodation to suit their needs and preferences. From luxurious apartments with stunning fjord views to traditional cottages nestled in charming villages, there’s something for everyone in this magical region. Be sure to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you get the best choice and availability. With careful planning and the right accommodation, your family vacation in Lapland and Northern Norway is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.
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