Ice hotels, the frosty marvels that have captivated travelers and holiday movie fans alike, are more than just cinematic fantasy. These stunning creations, built entirely from snow and ice, offer a truly unique travel experience. Inspired by films like A Royal Christmas Crush, which features a magical ice hotel, real-life ice hotels around the world bring these icy dreams to life.
Ice Hotels You Can Book Right Now
Hôtel de Glace – Valcartier, Canada
Located just 20 minutes outside Quebec City, the Hôtel de Glace is a full-fledged ice hotel in the heart of Valcartier Vacation Village. Made from compacted snow and solid ice, the hotel offers guests a truly chill experience, with ice walls, snow floors, and even an ice bar. While the rooms feature military-grade sleeping bags and soft mats instead of traditional beds, there’s a built-in backup: guests also have access to a comfortable room at the nearby Hôtel Valcartier in case the cold becomes too much.
Before settling in for the night, guests must watch a training video and gear up in layers to stay warm. Despite the chill, the hotel also offers a spa with saunas and hot tubs to warm up after a cold day.
Lapland SnowVillage – Kittilä, Finland
For those seeking a truly daring experience, Lapland’s SnowVillage offers an exhilarating stay in one of the coldest places on Earth. Located in Finland’s rugged Lapland region, this ice hotel is a must-see for thrill-seekers and lovers of all things snowy. Guests are provided with warm suits and boots to combat the freezing temperatures. The SnowVillage also boasts impressive ice sculptures, an ice restaurant, and a festive atmosphere complete with elven helpers, making it a popular stop for families during the winter months.
Icehotel – Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
The original and perhaps most iconic of the ice hotels, Icehotel in Sweden was first opened in 1989. Although it is rebuilt every year, the structure maintains a timeless charm, offering guests an unforgettable experience that includes artistically crafted ice rooms, ice art galleries, and custom-made bedframes that are replaced annually. Icehotel also runs special Christmas programs, immersing visitors in holiday cheer, making it the perfect spot for fans of both ice hotels and festive traditions.
Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel – Alta, Norway
Located in Norway’s Arctic region, the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel is the northernmost and largest ice hotel in the world. Spanning nearly 27,000 square feet, this icy palace is a popular choice for couples seeking a unique venue for their wedding, thanks to its breathtaking ice chapel. Guests can explore its enormous art gallery and enjoy the stunning sculptures created each year. Like other ice hotels, Sorrisniva offers the option of staying in a nearby lodge for a warmer retreat.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
While ice hotels offer one-of-a-kind stays, it’s essential to be prepared for the cold. Guests are advised to dress in layers—especially for overnight stays—and expect to sleep in sleeping bags designed to keep you warm in freezing temperatures. Even though the cold may seem daunting, many ice hotels provide ample warmth through saunas, hot tubs, and nearby accommodations.
So, whether you’re seeking adventure in the frigid reaches of the Arctic or a magical winter escape, ice hotels around the world offer a truly unique, chill experience that you can’t find anywhere else.
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