The ICEHOTEL has spawned many imitators since its first construction in 1989, but has few peers. With each reincarnation, blocks of snow and ice are harvested from the River Torne at Jukkasjärvi in the far north of Sweden, and crafted by architects, sculptors and ice experts into rooms, suites, hallways, galleries, a bar and even a small church.
Art works and sculptures throughout the hotel are thrown into stunning iridescence by judicious lighting, lending further sparkle to proceedings. So extraordinary is the experience that you are presented with a diploma stating the temperature inside and outside the hotel on the night of your stay.
Eat
Any culinary experience at the ICEHOTEL has to start with a trip to the ICEBAR, which promises a fabulously frosty experience involving cocktails in glasses made of ice, and you can choose between a bespoke themed recipe, or one from the more traditional repertoire. Afterwards, head to the restaurant for a more traditional dining experience – this building is not made from ice, though your plates will be.
Sleep
A night at the ICEHOTEL is a night like no other. The rooms and suites here are, of course, made entirely from ice, which means your thick mattress and thermal sleeping bags are vital as the temperature outside your snug cocoon reaches a balmy -5°. You can choose from a variety of suites, which display unique ice sculptures that thaw with the hotel in the spring, or project eerie lighting across the ceiling that is reminiscent of the Northern Lights, while smaller Ice and Snow rooms give you the chance to sleep on an ice bed in a more minimalist fashion.
Introducing ICEHOTEL 365
From 2017, you will now be able to enjoy an ice hotel holiday during the summer months too! We're pleased to report that it is entirely eco-friendly, being solar powered by the Midnight Sun. Guests will be able to stay in beautifully-carved art suites, giving a winter feel to their accommodation, although able to take advantage of all the incredible summer activities available, from Midnight Sun hikes to swimming and kayaking in beautiful lakes. Learn more about ICEHOTEL 365.
Do
Winter activities at the ICEHOTEL quintessentially Arctic, with the enticing wilderness of northern Sweden luring countless travellers out on snowmobile safaris, dogsledding adventures and much more. Adrenaline junkies must hit the slopes for some exciting skiing opportunities, while culture vultures should pay a visit to a Sámi village to learn about the unusual lifestyles of the region’s indigenous people, including their natural affinity with reindeers.
Please note: the ICEHOTEL sells out many months in advance. We recommend you get in touch as soon as possible to ensure you can stay at this very unique place.
