Life in Coal Mine 3

1st Jan - 31st Dec

3 hours

Per person NOK 950

Join the local mining company, Store Norske Spitsbergen Kullkompani, on a journey through Svalbard’s rich mining history while experiencing the everyday life of a coal miner in Mine 3.

Longyearbyen mining history

Mine 3 was shut down in 1996 and more than 20 years have now passed since the last coal miners entered the mountain to extract the black gold. What was it like to work in the Svalbard mines? We can now enter the mine and experience the everyday life of a Svalbard miner. We will provide suitable clothing and take you on a cultural history experience deep into the mountain.

You will get picked up at your hotel, just like the miners were picked up in days gone by. On our way to the mine, the driver will mention some of the major local attractions along the way. Mine 3 is situated in the mountainside above Longyearbyen airport. On our way to the mine, we will also pass the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. From the mine entrance, there is a wonderful view of the Adventfjord, where the guide will meet you. On this tour you will hear stories about what life was like for the miners of Longyearbyen and what the community here was like in the old days.

Facts

Difficulty: 2

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09:00 - 12:00

13:00 - 16:00

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Minimum participants: 2 persons

Age limit: 12 years

Coal-mine workers

Our working day starts as we enter the building. A lot here is old and untouched. Before entering the mine, we will put on our overalls and collect our helmets and headlamps. You will feel the humid and cold air in the building. Our guide will explain about the mining operations that took place here while you wander around, gather impressions and hear the sounds from the mountain as if it were speaking to you.

We conclude with the highlight of the tour as we walk into the tunnel leading to the mine deep inside the mountain. It’s completely dark here and you will quickly understand the importance of having a fully powered headlamp. The darkness will get to you and it’s all-consuming, but as always there is light at the end of the tunnel!

Level: This tour is suitable for everyone, but wheelchair users are kindly requested to advise us in advance so we can arrange suitable transport.

Supplier of this activity: Gruve 3 (own booking terms apply to trips provided by Gruve 3).