Venture into a world of frozen beauty and architectural achievements and discover some of the world’s best ice hotels. This guide invites you to explore some of the most spectacular ice hotels around the globe, where you can experience staying in a room carved entirely from ice and snow. These hotels are incredible places to stay, and art installations that change every year with new designs and themes. From the famous Icehotel in Sweden to the enchanting Hôtel de Glace in Canada, each destination offers a unique blend of icy artistry, cultural experiences, and wintery activities.
1. Icehotel, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Henk Vrieselaar
The world-renowned Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, is the pioneer of ice hotel construction and a masterpiece of ephemeral architecture. Each winter, artists from around the world gather to create this temporary art exhibit and accommodation, using ice from the Torne River. The hotel features intricately carved rooms, a bar, and even a chapel, all made of ice. During your stay, immerse yourself in a range of Arctic activities, from Northern Lights tours to dog sledding. The Icehotel also offers warm accommodations and a restaurant serving local Sami cuisine.
Insider’s Tip
Book a guided tour of the Icehotel to learn about its construction and artistry.
When to Travel
December to April for the full ice experience.
How to Get There
Fly to Kiruna Airport and take a short transfer to Jukkasjärvi.
2. Hôtel de Glace, Quebec, Canada
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Kathy images
Hôtel de Glace in Quebec is North America’s only ice hotel, offering an enchanting stay with its majestic ice sculptures and snow vaults. The hotel is redesigned each year, featuring themed suites, an ice bar, and an ice chapel. Besides the surreal experience of sleeping on an ice bed, guests can enjoy outdoor hot tubs and saunas. The hotel is located just 30 minutes from Quebec City, making it easily accessible for a magical winter getaway.
Insider’s Tip
Spend an evening at the ice bar, where cocktails are served in glasses made of ice.
When to Travel
January to March for the optimal ice hotel experience.
How to Get There
Fly to Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport and drive or take a shuttle to the hotel.
3. SnowCastle of Kemi, Finland
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Janice pama
The SnowCastle of Kemi in Finnish Lapland is a seasonal structure boasting magnificent snow architecture and art. This icy fortress includes a hotel, a restaurant, and a chapel. Each year, the castle is built with a new theme, offering a unique experience for visitors. The hotel’s snow rooms are equipped with sleeping bags designed for Arctic conditions, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep.
Insider’s Tip
Dine at the SnowRestaurant for a unique culinary experience in a frosty setting.
When to Travel
Late January to early April, coinciding with the castle’s annual construction.
How to Get There
Fly to Kemi-Tornio Airport, with the SnowCastle located nearby in the town of Kemi.
4. Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, Alta, Norway
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Situated in Alta, Norway, the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel is an exquisite work of ice art set amidst the stunning landscapes of the Arctic. This hotel features beautifully illuminated ice sculptures, an ice bar, and a chapel. Guests are provided with thermal sleeping bags for a cozy night’s rest. The hotel also offers a range of Arctic adventures, including snowmobile safaris and Northern Lights excursions.
Insider’s Tip
Take a guided tour of the hotel to learn about the intricate ice sculpting and construction process.
When to Travel
Mid-January to late March for the best conditions.
How to Get There
Fly to Alta Airport and take a short drive to the hotel.
5. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finland
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Iris van den Broek
While not entirely made of ice, the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort in Finnish Lapland offers unique glass igloos that allow guests to gaze at the Northern Lights from the comfort of their beds. The resort also features traditional snow igloos, providing a more authentic ice hotel experience. The surrounding area is perfect for winter activities like husky safaris and reindeer sleigh rides.
Insider’s Tip
Book a glass igloo for a chance to witness the Northern Lights in comfort.
When to Travel
December to April for the Northern Lights and snow igloos.
How to Get There
Fly to Ivalo Airport and take a shuttle to the resort.
6. Icehotel 365, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Henk Vrieselaar
An extension of the original Icehotel, Icehotel 365 in Jukkasjärvi offers a year-round ice experience, thanks to solar-powered cooling technology. Guests can enjoy ice rooms and art suites even during the summer months. The hotel includes an ice bar and an ice gallery, providing a unique Arctic experience regardless of the season.
Insider’s Tip
Visit during the summer for a unique contrast between the midnight sun and the cool interior of the ice rooms.
When to Travel
Year-round, with each season offering a different experience.
How to Get There
Fly to Kiruna Airport and transfer to Jukkasjärvi.
7. Schneedorf Igloo Village, Austria
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Rita Januskeviciute
Nestled in the Austrian Alps, the Schneedorf Igloo Village offers an adventurous ice hotel experience. The igloos are built annually and feature artistically designed interiors. The village provides a communal atmosphere, with a shared dining area where guests can enjoy warm meals. Outdoor activities such as snowshoeing and tobogganing enhance the Alpine experience.
Insider’s Tip
Participate in an igloo-building workshop for a hands-on experience in igloo construction.
When to Travel
December to March for the full winter experience.
How to Get There
Fly to Innsbruck Airport and take a transfer to the Ötz Valley, where the village is located.
8. Iglu-Dorf, Various Locations in Switzerland and Andorra
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pandora Pictures
Iglu-Dorf operates several igloo villages across Switzerland and Andorra, each offering a unique setting amidst the stunning Alpine scenery. The igloos are artistically designed and provide a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Each village features an ice bar and offers activities like snowshoe tours and spa services.
Insider’s Tip
Opt for a romantic package that includes a fondue dinner and a private jacuzzi session.
When to Travel
December to April, depending on the location.
How to Get There
Choose the nearest major airport to the specific Iglu-Dorf location you plan to visit, and then take a train or shuttle.
9. Hotel de Glace, Sweden
Image Credit: Shutterstock / sssubinpark
Hotel de Glace, located near Kiruna in Sweden, is an ice hotel that offers a blend of modern design and traditional ice craftsmanship. The hotel features ice rooms, an ice bar, and a restaurant serving Scandinavian cuisine. Guests can enjoy nearby winter activities like ice fishing and dog sledding.
Insider’s Tip
Book a guided Northern Lights tour for a chance to witness this spectacular natural phenomenon.
When to Travel
December to April for the best winter conditions.
How to Get There
Fly to Kiruna Airport and take a transfer to the hotel.
10. Balea Ice Hotel, Romania
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Mikadun
The Balea Ice Hotel in Romania is a hidden gem located in the Fagaras Mountains. Each year, the hotel is rebuilt with a new theme, featuring ice sculptures and artistic rooms. The surrounding area offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities, making it a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Insider’s Tip
Try the traditional Romanian dishes served at the hotel’s ice restaurant for a unique culinary experience.
When to Travel
January to March for the most stable ice conditions.
How to Get There
Fly to Sibiu International Airport and then take a transfer to the Fagaras Mountains.
The Bottom Line
Staying in an ice hotel is a unique lodging experience and an adventure into a world of artistry, resilience, and natural wonder. Each ice hotel offers its own interpretation of life in a frozen landscape, from the artistic suites of Jukkasjärvi to the alpine charm of the Schneedorf Igloo Village. As you plan your icy retreat, consider the location’s climate, accessibility, and available activities. Prepare to be mesmerized by the intricate ice sculptures, the ethereal glow of the rooms, and the exhilarating feeling of sleeping in a room made entirely of snow and ice. Remember to pack warmly and embrace the unique charms of these frosty havens. Your journey to the land of ice is a foray into a fantastical world that defies the ordinary.
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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.