The story of Sorrisniva dates back to 1885, when the Wisløff family settled here by the Alta River, making their living through farming and salmon fishing. The river and surrounding nature have been an important part of the family’s life ever since and remain at the heart of Sorrisniva today.
In 1970, the family began taking visitors on riverboat excursions along the Alta River towards the spectacular Alta Canyon. This marked the beginning of a tourism journey that, over several generations, has transformed Sorrisniva from a local activity provider into an internationally recognised Arctic destination.
From Riverboats to a Year-Round Destination
Over the years, the family has continued to develop new ways of sharing the nature and way of life in the North with guests from around the world. Sorrisniva was an early pioneer of organised snowmobile experiences, and in 1992 the distinctive Lavvu Restaurant opened its doors.
Around the turn of the millennium, a new chapter began when Sorrisniva built Norway’s first ice hotel. Today, Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel is rebuilt entirely from snow and ice every winter, featuring a new artistic theme each season. The hotel has become one of Alta’s most iconic landmarks and is the world’s northernmost ice hotel.
In 2021, Arctic Wilderness Lodge opened, establishing Sorrisniva as a complete year-round destination. Situated directly on the banks of the Alta River, the lodge has been designed to bring guests closer to nature, with expansive panoramic windows overlooking the river and surrounding wilderness.
Arctic Experiences Through Four Seasons
Every season offers a different way to experience Sorrisniva. Winter brings the Northern Lights, snow, the Igloo Hotel and adventures in the Arctic wilderness. As summer arrives, the landscape is transformed by the Midnight Sun, the mighty Alta River and long, light-filled days.
Throughout the year, Sorrisniva offers a wide range of guided nature experiences, from traditional riverboat excursions and hiking to snowmobiling, Northern Lights experiences and other activities shaped by the changing seasons.
What connects them all is a desire to bring our guests closer to the nature, history and people that have shaped life in the North.
A Taste of Sorrisniva
Food and hospitality have always been an important part of Sorrisniva. At Maku Restaurant and Lavvu Restaurant, the seasons and ingredients of the North take centre stage.
Our menus draw inspiration from Arctic nature and local culinary traditions, combined with modern gastronomy. At Maku, the dining experience is complemented by an extensive and carefully curated wine list.
Family-Owned – With Our Roots by the Alta River
Although Sorrisniva today welcomes guests from around the world, it remains family-owned and deeply rooted in Alta.
From the first riverboat excursions in 1970 to today’s Arctic Wilderness Lodge, Igloo Hotel, restaurants and Arctic experiences, Sorrisniva has been guided by the same philosophy: to share the very best of Arctic nature, culture and hospitality with our guests.
Welcome to Sorrisniva – for all seasons
Are you ready for one or more wonderful experiences with us in Sorrisniva? We offer many different activities tailored to each season.