Get an insight into Longyearbyen’s past
Our town, Longyearbyen, would most likely not exist if it wasn’t for the American, John Munro Longyear, who travelled to Svalbard in the early 1900s and a few years later opened Gruve 1 [Mine 1].
Today, you can join us on a tour in Gruve 3 [Mine 3] as we go back in time. A car or bus will pick the guests up at the different hotels and guest houses in town. A bus or car will take you safely to the mine, a 10-minute drive from town.
Up at Gruve 3 you will walk through the facilities where the machinery and equipment were left behind when production stopped.
Each of you will be kitted with a helmet, headlamp and coverall , ready to begin your mining adventure. During the tour you will have the option to crawl on the very low working height the miners experienced daily. Due to the height of the mine, old-fashioned techniques were applied to mine and extract the coal.
The tour culminates by walking into a main tunnel that was excavated in the 1970s.
We promise an exciting tour which will give you a taste of the old days in Longyearbyen as well as an insight into the future of coal mining on Svalbard and for the Norwegian coal company, Store Norske Spitsbergen Kulkompani. Grab a piece of coal on your way out and bring home a locally produced souvenir.
“We have been seeing other mines in Europe but this guided tour was really special and very interesting.”
Times
Monday-Sunday |
| 09:00 — 12:00 |
| 13:00 — 16:00 |
Please be aware that tours and availability can vary during holidays.
Prices
2025 |
|
| Adult | 990 NOK |
| Youth (12-15 years old) | 650 NOK |
| Senior (from 67 years old) | 750 NOK |
Age limit: 12 years old.
Booking
The tour is suited for most people. Are you in need of assistance, please contact us prior to your scheduled booking. Please be aware that most tours are held in English.
N.b. We require a minimum of 2 guests to hold a visit. Translation from group leaders is only possible on private group tours.
Private group tours available for minimum 10 guests. Contact us directly to make a private group booking.
Equipment
You will be kitted with a helmet, headlamp, and coverall (optional).
Terms and Conditions
Read our terms and conditions here.
“Nice to visit and get the story behind the mining activities in Svalbard. Great guide with interesting stories!”
Venue Hire
An old storeroom in the facility is available to hire for your private events, such as dinners, concerts and birthday parties etc.
You are welcome to combine your venue hire with a guided tour into the coal mine.
Capacity seated: 150 people
Capacity standing: 220 people
Contact Us
If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us. Our office hours are Monday-Friday at 08.00-16.00.
