Ice and igloo hotels offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience, combining luxury with adventure. Whether it’s sleeping in a room carved of ice or gazing at the Northern Lights from a glass igloo, these hotels provide an unforgettable stay. While not for everyone due to their cold environment and premium pricing, they certainly offer a unique way to experience the world’s colder regions.
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Introduction to Ice and Igloo Hotels
What They Are: Ice and igloo hotels are unique accommodations, primarily found in cold climates, offering guests a chance to stay in rooms made entirely or partially from ice and snow. These hotels are known for their extraordinary architecture and often feature intricate ice sculptures and designs.
Best Ice and Igloo Hotels Around the World
Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos (Rovaniemi) Opens on 15th December
Location: Near Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland, situated above the Arctic Circle.
Amenities: Glass igloos with 360-degree views, a snow hotel, Ice restaurant, Ice chapel, Ice bar.
Activities: Optimal Northern Lights viewing, snow and ice experiences, motorized beds in igloos.
Pricing: Information on specific pricing is not mentioned, but offers a range of accommodations and experiences.
The Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos, located in Finnish Lapland, offers a unique and memorable accommodation experience. This facility stands out as one of the largest snow hotels in the Nordic countries. It features 30 rooms, all made of snow, and includes an Ice restaurant that can accommodate up to 150 people, an Ice chapel, and an Ice bar.
Located just above the Arctic Circle and near the shores of Lake Lehtojärvi, the hotel is approximately 16 miles (26 km) from Rovaniemi, the provincial capital of Finnish Lapland. It’s conveniently situated on the Arctic Circle, about a 30-minute drive from central Rovaniemi, making it an accessible destination for those looking to explore this northern region.
One of the most distinctive features of this hotel is its Glass Igloos. These igloos offer a 360-degree panoramic view of the night sky, perfect for observing the Northern Lights. The igloos are equipped with motorized beds, allowing guests to adjust their viewing angle with just a touch of a button. Additionally, the igloos are designed with heated floors and thermal-glass roofs to ensure a warm and comfortable experience, even in the cold Arctic climate. Each igloo comes with a private bathroom featuring a shower, ensuring that guests have all the necessary comforts during their stay.
The Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos in Rovaniemi, Finland, offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure, making it a bucket-list experience for many travelers. Its unique style and the chance to witness the spectacular Northern Lights in a cozy, warm setting makes it an unforgettable destination.
Lapland Hotels SnowVillage (Kittilä) Opens on 25th December
Location: In Kittilä, Finland, known for its breathtaking snow and ice constructions.
Amenities: Snow suites for overnight stays, a top-class à la carte restaurant, and drinks served in ice glasses.
Activities: Unique Arctic adventures with opportunities to explore the snow and ice structures.
Pricing: Information on specific pricing for stays and activities is not provided, but it is a highly rated and unique accommodation experience.
Lapland Hotels SnowVillage in Kittilä, Finland, offers a truly unique arctic experience, earning its reputation as one of the most special hotels in the area. Situated in an excellent location in Kittilä, this hotel has garnered numerous positive reviews for its unique offerings and high-quality service. It stands out as the number one among two special hotels in Kittilä, with high ratings for its location, cleanliness, and service.
SnowVillage presents guests with breathtaking constructions made entirely of snow and ice, offering an array of arctic adventures. Guests can opt for a night stay in a snow suite, dine at a top-class à la carte restaurant, and enjoy drinks served in ice glasses. This immersive experience is tailored for those who seek an adventurous and novel lodging experience in the heart of the Arctic.
The hotel has been recognized as the second among 16 points of interest and landmarks to visit in Kittilä, highlighting its significance as a destination. The unique experience, coupled with the great staff, courtesy, and kindness, contributes to its high ratings and positive guest reviews. The SnowVillage stands out not just as a place to stay, but as a destination in itself, offering visitors a glimpse into a world of ice and snow, beautifully crafted into an inhabitable space.
Overall, the Lapland Hotels SnowVillage in Kittilä is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the Arctic in a unique and unforgettable way. Its combination of artistic ice constructions, comfortable amenities, and exceptional service makes it an ideal choice for adventurous travelers seeking a unique stay in Finland’s winter wonderland.
Kemin LumiLinna - The SnowCastle of Kemi (Kemi)
Location: In Kemi, Finland, at Mansikkanokankatu 15, featuring the world’s largest snow fort.
Amenities: SnowRestaurant with ice tables and reindeer fur, SnowChapel, SnowHotel with artist-decorated rooms.
Activities: Adventure land for children, theatre, ice art exhibitions, performances by opera singers and dancers.
Pricing: Admission €18.00 for adults, €10.80 for children; guided tours available upon request.
The SnowCastle of Kemi, also known as Kemin LumiLinna, is a remarkable winter attraction in Kemi, Finland, renowned for being the largest snow fort in the world. This awe-inspiring structure is reconstructed annually, each time featuring a different architecture. It first opened in 1996 and has since drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors, making it a significant point of interest in the region.
Open every day of the year, the SnowCastle Resort offers a variety of winter-themed attractions and activities. From January to April, visitors can explore the SnowHotel, SnowCafé, and admire the stunning snow art. Additionally, the resort features a fun tube slide, adding to the myriad of activities available for guests of all ages.
For those looking to extend their visit, the SnowCastle provides unique accommodation options. Guests can book a room inside the Snow Castle, offering an immersive and frosty overnight experience. Prices for a room start at €425 per night, with children under four staying for free if they share a bed with their parents. The resort also hosts a dinner service at the Snow Castle, with meals priced between €51-58, and requires reservations at least two days in advance.
The Kemi SnowCastle, through its ephemeral beauty and unique construction, has become a dream destination, carving out a place of enchantment in snow and ice. It stands as the second among 17 attractions in Kemi on Tripadvisor, showcasing its popularity and appeal to visitors from all over the world.
In summary, the SnowCastle of Kemi offers a magical and unique experience in the heart of Finnish Lapland. Its ever-changing architecture, array of winter attractions, and special accommodation options make it a must-visit destination for those seeking an extraordinary adventure in a winter wonderland.
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finland
Location: In Finnish Lapland, close to the Urho Kekkonen National Park.
Amenities: Glass igloos, log cabins, a restaurant, and a sauna.
Activities: Aurora viewing, husky safaris, reindeer safaris.
Pricing: Glass igloos start at approximately $450 per night.
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort in Saariselkä, Finland, offers a unique and enchanting experience for visitors seeking adventure in the Arctic. Rated as the second of three lodges in Saariselkä, it has garnered a very good rating with 2,112 reviews, reflecting its popularity among guests. The resort is noted for its excellent location, cleanliness, and a range of services, although it has received a slightly lower rating in terms of value.
One of the highlights of Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is its range of amenities designed to enhance the guest experience. These include free parking, internet access, a sauna, complimentary breakfast, skiing opportunities, activities for children, airport transportation, baggage storage, and a bar/lounge. These facilities ensure that guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay, regardless of the season.
The resort features various room types, including non-smoking rooms and suites, many of which include a fireplace for added warmth and ambiance. The resort is family-friendly and caters to international guests, with staff speaking multiple languages including English, Russian, Chinese, and Estonian, among others.
Guest reviews often highlight unique experiences such as staying in the east village glass igloo, queen suites, log cabins, and enjoying activities like husky safaris and aurora hunting. The igloo village offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view the northern lights in a winter wonderland setting. Guests also appreciate the art gallery and the variety of dining options available, including breakfast and dinner.
A particularly notable feature of the resort is the kelo glass igloos, which are spacious, warm, and well-equipped, often including a private sauna. These igloos provide a cozy and comfortable setting for viewing the spectacular Arctic skies. The resort’s staff are commended for their friendliness and ensuring guests are well-catered for throughout their stay. Activities like husky dog carting are a highlight for many visitors, with the well-loved dogs adding to the charm of the experience.
In summary, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort offers a magical and unforgettable Arctic experience, with its unique accommodations, range of amenities, and the opportunity to witness the northern lights and engage in unique Arctic activities. It’s a destination that combines comfort, adventure, and the beauty of the Finnish Lapland wilderness.
Icehotel, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
Location: Located in the Swedish Lapland, north of the Arctic Circle.
Amenities: Art suites, ice bar, chapel, and a warm building with traditional hotel rooms for those not staying in ice rooms.
Activities: Northern lights tours, dog sledding, ice sculpting.
Pricing: Prices vary widely depending on room type and season, typically starting from around $200 per night.
The Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, is an extraordinary destination, combining the allure of a hotel with the marvels of an art exhibition. Founded in 1989, this unique hotel, constructed annually from natural ice from the Torne River, has become a renowned attraction. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5, it stands as one of the top hotels in Jukkasjärvi.
Guests can expect a variety of amenities, including a bar, lounge, and restaurant, offering a comfortable stay amidst the icy wonders. The hotel provides non-smoking rooms, ensuring a pleasant environment for all guests. The Icehotel is not only a place to stay but also a center for unique activities and experiences. Visitors can embark on tours to explore the intricately designed ice rooms, each showcasing impressive creativity and skill. The Ice Bar is a highlight, offering a distinctive experience, especially for children. Guests are provided with parkas to keep them warm during their exploration.
The cold rooms of the Icehotel offer a ‘once in a lifetime’ experience, where guests can spend the night in rooms that melt back into the river come spring, offering an authentic and ephemeral winter experience. The Ice Bar, a part of the hotel, is noted for its exceptional design and ambiance. For outdoor activities, guests are advised to book in advance due to high demand.
The Icehotel also offers warm rooms or lodges for those preferring a more conventional stay. The cold rooms, open for exploration during the day, are available for overnight stays from 6 pm. These rooms provide a unique sleeping experience, with the hotel providing special sleeping bags to keep guests warm in the sub-zero temperatures. Dining at the Ice Hotel restaurant is highly recommended, with excellent food offerings for both dinner and breakfast.
Reviews highlight the hotel’s extremely friendly staff and unforgettable experiences. Activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling through the stunning landscapes of Swedish Lapland are also available, adding to the hotel’s appeal. The chance to see the Northern Lights in their full glory is a significant draw for many visitors.
In summary, the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi offers a remarkable blend of art, adventure, and comfort. From its ice-crafted rooms and unique dining experiences to the plethora of activities available in the enchanting Swedish Lapland, it presents a truly unique and unforgettable experience for its guests.
Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, Alta, Norway
Location: In the northern reaches of Norway.
Amenities: Ice rooms, an ice bar, ice chapel, and a warm restaurant.
Activities: Northern lights tours, snowmobile safaris.
Pricing: Prices start at about $250 per night.
The Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, located in Alta, Norway, offers a unique and serene overnight experience. Rated 4.5 out of 5, it is known for its outstanding cleanliness, excellent service, and overall value. This one-of-a-kind hotel, constructed entirely of snow and ice, features beautiful ice sculptures and an ice bar where guests can enjoy drinks in a chilly yet cozy ambiance.
In terms of amenities, the hotel provides free parking, internet access, a sauna, and complimentary breakfast. These amenities ensure that guests have a comfortable and convenient stay amidst the icy surroundings. The Igloo Hotel offers various room types, including bridal suites, non-smoking rooms, suites, and family rooms, catering to a diverse range of guests. The hotel is known for its charming style and friendly service, with staff speaking both English and Norwegian.
Visitors often highlight the ice sculptures, the unique experience of staying in an ice hotel, and the magical atmosphere of the surroundings, which includes a chance to view the Northern Lights. The hotel provides warm sleeping bags for a comfortable night’s sleep in the ice rooms. Each year, the hotel features a new theme, adding to its allure and uniqueness. The property also includes a chapel, making it a popular destination for weddings and special events.
The price range for a standard room at the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel is between $298 and $430, offering an accessible option for those looking to experience this unique accommodation. The hotel, formerly known as Alta Friluftspark, consists of 30 rooms, providing an intimate and exclusive experience for guests.
In summary, Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in Alta stands out as a unique accommodation, blending the tranquility and beauty of its snowy environment with comfortable amenities and exceptional service. The hotel’s ever-changing themes and ice sculptures make each visit a new and enchanting experience, ideal for those seeking a magical and memorable stay in Northern Norway.
Hotel de Glace, Quebec, Canada
Location: Just outside Quebec City.
Amenities: Ice rooms and suites, ice bar, chapel, outdoor spas, and saunas.
Activities: Ice slide, snowshoeing, and nearby winter festivals in Quebec City.
Pricing: Rooms typically start at around $300 per night.
The Hôtel de Glace, located just 20 minutes from Québec City, Canada, offers a unique experience as the only ice hotel in North America. Open annually from January to March, the hotel is entirely crafted from snow and ice, featuring ever-changing themes, sculptures, and carvings. This architectural marvel includes various rooms, thematic suites, some with colorful LED lighting and gas fireplaces, a Great Hall, chapel, ice slide, and an Ice Bar. The hotel also provides an outdoor spa area equipped with hot tubs and saunas for guests.
Experiences and Activities
Staying in an ice or igloo hotel is an experience in itself. These hotels offer a range of winter activities, including:
Aurora Viewing: Many of these hotels are located in regions ideal for observing the Northern Lights.
Snow Adventures: Activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing are common.
Cultural Experiences: Engage in local traditions and cuisines, often a highlight at these destinations.
Pricing and Booking Advice
Seasonal Operation: Most ice hotels operate only during the winter months, generally from December to March.
Advance Booking: Due to their unique nature, these hotels often require booking well in advance.
Price Range: Prices vary based on location, room type, and the time of year. Expect to pay a premium for the unique experience.
Conclusion
Ice and igloo hotels offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience, combining luxury with adventure. Whether it’s sleeping in a room carved of ice or gazing at the Northern Lights from a glass igloo, these hotels provide an unforgettable stay. While not for everyone due to their cold environment and premium pricing, they certainly offer a unique way to experience the world’s colder regions.
This condensed version touches on the key aspects of ice and igloo hotels, providing an overview of what to expect, where to find them, and what makes each unique. For a full-length article, additional details and personalized stories from guests could be included to bring the experience to life.
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