Discover 8 Stunning Ice Hotels in Scandinavia

Embarking on a journey to Scandinavia during the winter months offers a unique opportunity to experience some of the most enchanting accommodations the world has to offer: ice hotels. These spectacular constructions, rebuilt each year from ice and snow, provide a magical stay, complete with intricately carved ice sculptures, themed rooms, and even bars made entirely of ice. Alongside the serene beauty of Arctic landscapes, staying in one of these ice hotels in Scandinavia offers not just a place to sleep, but an immersive encounter with the fragility and beauty of frozen water, under the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights.

This article will guide you through eight stunning ice hotels located across Scandinavia, with notable mentions in Sweden, Norway, and Finland, as well as a distinguished addition outside the traditional Nordic countries. From the world-renowned Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, to the enchanting SnowVillage in Kittilä, Finland, each hotel presents its own unique set of winter activities, from husky sledding across the Arctic Circle to snowmobiling under the aurora-filled night sky. Prepare to embark on a surreal journey through a winter wonderland, where you can sleep in rooms carved entirely from ice, wrapped in the warmth of high-quality sleeping bags, and awake to the silence of a Scandinavian winter morning, all while discovering the best ice hotels that Scandinavia—and indeed the world—has to offer.

Icehotel, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

Icehotel History

The Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, originated as an art project in 1989, becoming the world's first hotel made entirely of ice and snow. This architectural marvel is reborn annually, crafted from the pristine ice of the Torne River, one of Europe's last untouched rivers. Each year, artists and designers from around the globe contribute to the hotel's ephemeral art exhibitions, transforming fresh ice into breathtaking designs and sculptures .

Icehotel Design and Construction

Construction of the Icehotel begins each November when artists gather in Jukkasjärvi to turn their designs into reality. The main building materials are 'snice' (a mix of snow and ice), which provides durability and insulation. Huge two-ton blocks of ice, harvested from the Torne River, are used to create the hotel's structure. These blocks are stored from the previous winter to ensure there is enough raw material for construction. The design of the hotel includes catenary arch-shaped corridors and rooms, a design that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also structurally sound .

Icehotel Rooms and Amenities

The Icehotel features a range of rooms from standard ice rooms to deluxe suites, all maintained at sub-zero temperatures to preserve the ice. The hotel provides guests with expedition-style sleeping bags rated for extreme temperatures, ensuring comfort throughout the night. Amenities include an ice bar where even the glasses are made of ice, contributing to the unique experience. Each spring, the hotel melts back into the Torne River, only to be reconstructed the following winter with new designs and artworks, making each visit uniquely different from the last .

Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, Alta, Norway

Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel Location

Located in the stunning landscape of Alta, Norway, Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel offers you the unique experience of staying in the world's northernmost igloo hotel . Nestled in the northern part of Norway, Alta is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and is a prime location for viewing the Northern Lights, making it an ideal destination for winter tourism .

Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel Architecture

The Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel is an architectural marvel, reconstructed annually using 250 tonnes of ice and 7,000 m³ of snow . Local craftsmen meticulously build the igloo by layering ice and snow, sourced from a nearby mountain lake and the Alta River, respectively . Each year, the hotel features a new theme reflected in its ice sculptures and carvings, enhancing the magical atmosphere of this icy wonder .

Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel Activities

During your stay at Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, you can engage in a variety of exhilarating winter activities. From dog sledding and snowmobiling to cross-country skiing, the hotel offers numerous ways to explore the Arctic wilderness . Additionally, guided tours are available, providing an opportunity to learn about the construction of the igloo hotel and to admire the intricate ice art . Don't miss the chance to enjoy a special drink served in an ice glass at the hotel's ice bar .

Snowhotel Kirkenes, Norway

Snowhotel Kirkenes Features

At Snowhotel Kirkenes, you step into a real-life winter wonderland, open all year round, offering an authentic Arctic experience. The hotel is entirely made of snow and ice, featuring 14 uniquely carved rooms by master ice sculptors from around the world. Each room showcases Nordic motifs inspired by Norwegian and Sami folklore, fauna, and fairy tales, creating a magical atmosphere .

Snowhotel Kirkenes Winter Activities

Your adventure at Snowhotel Kirkenes includes a variety of Arctic activities to enhance your stay. Engage in thrilling experiences like dog sledding, snowshoe walking, snowmobile tours, and the King Crab Safari. The hotel's professional guides ensure a safe and memorable experience, helping you to explore the stunning landscapes and possibly witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights .

Snowhotel Kirkenes Dining Experience

Dining at Snowhotel Kirkenes offers more than just a meal; it's a story woven with local flavors and traditions. The restaurant prides itself on using short-traveled, pure local ingredients like reindeer, arctic fish, and king crab. Special touches include homemade jellies and cheeses from local farmers, enhancing the culinary experience. Whether you choose a three-course menu or a unique Arctic lunch in the ice-dining room, you're in for a memorable dining adventure .

Arctic SnowHotel, Rovaniemi, Finland

Arctic SnowHotel Construction

At the Arctic SnowHotel in Rovaniemi, Finland, the construction process is a marvel of seasonal renewal, utilizing locally sourced ice and snow. Each year, the hotel is meticulously crafted from the ground up, with materials directly harvested from nature, including ice from the nearby Lake Lehtojärvi . The hotel's structure and its exquisite decorations are redesigned annually to provide a unique experience for each season, operating from mid-December to the end of March .

Arctic SnowHotel Accommodations

The Arctic SnowHotel offers a variety of rooms, including 20 ice rooms capable of hosting 62 guests. These rooms are equipped with beds made of ice, covered with warm blankets and quilts to ensure comfort in the sub-zero temperatures, which are consistently maintained between 0°C and -5°C . For a truly unique experience, the snow suites are individually themed and adorned with intricate ice art, offering both aesthetic beauty and a cozy stay under soft bed covers placed atop ice-made bed frames .

Arctic Snow Hotel Northern Lights Viewing

One of the most magical experiences at the Arctic SnowHotel is the opportunity to view the Northern Lights. The hotel enhances this experience with its Aurora Alarm service, which alerts guests to the appearance of the Northern Lights, ensuring that you don’t miss this breathtaking natural phenomenon. The hotel's remote location minimizes light pollution, providing optimal conditions for viewing the Northern Lights, which are visible on approximately 150 nights each year in Lapland .

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Saariselka, Finland

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort Igloo Types

At Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, you can choose from several unique accommodation options, each designed to enhance your experience of the Arctic wilderness. The traditional glass igloos offer panoramic views of the night sky, ideal for watching the Northern Lights in comfort. For a more luxurious stay, the kelo-glass igloos combine the rustic charm of a log cabin with the modern design of a glass dome, providing a cozy yet breathtaking atmosphere. Additionally, the resort features snow igloos, where the temperature remains a steady minus three to minus six degrees Celsius, ensuring a snug and serene night's sleep under a down sleeping bag .

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort Activities

Your stay at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is complemented by a variety of activities that let you explore the stunning landscapes of Finnish Lapland. Embark on a thrilling snowmobile safari, or experience the traditional mode of Arctic travel with a husky sled ride. For a touch of local culture, join a reindeer safari hosted by local herders. If you're looking for adventure, the resort offers ice karting on a professional circuit, winter horseback riding, and even ice fishing excursions. Each activity is designed to immerse you in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region .

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort Aurora Viewing

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is renowned as one of the world's best places to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. The resort's location, far from city lights and with minimal obstructions from trees, provides an unspoiled backdrop for viewing the aurora borealis. The long season for Northern Lights, from late August to late April, ensures ample opportunity to experience this natural marvel. Whether from the comfort of your glass igloo or during a guided nocturnal adventure, the sight of the Northern Lights at Kakslauttanen is truly unforgettable .

SnowVillage, Kittilä, Finland

SnowVillage Design and Sculptures

Every winter, the SnowVillage in Kittilä, Finland, presents a new world of ice and snow, meticulously crafted by a team of professional ice sculptors. The design and themes of the sculptures change annually, ensuring a unique experience with each visit. The village spans approximately 20,000 square meters and includes not only accommodations but also awe-inspiring ice art that often features popular cultural themes, such as characters from "Game of Thrones" .

SnowVillage Rooms and Suites

At SnowVillage, you can choose from a variety of snow and ice rooms and suites, each offering a distinct experience. The accommodations range from standard rooms to elaborate suites furnished with ice beds, ice furniture, and bespoke ice sculptures. Every room is a testament to the craftsmanship of the sculptors, with each detail and feature carved to enhance the magical icy setting .

SnowVillage Ice Restaurant and Bar

Dining at the SnowVillage is an experience in itself, with the ice restaurant and bar constructed entirely from snow and ice. Here, you can enjoy a meal or a drink surrounded by intricate ice sculptures and furniture made of ice. The restaurant offers a three-course dinner menu, and it's advisable to book in advance to secure a spot in this extraordinary dining setting. For a warmer dining experience, the Log restaurant serves local flavors and a daily soup buffet in a cozy atmosphere .

LumiLinna Snow Hotel, Kemi, Finland

LumiLinna Snow Hotel Size and Construction

At LumiLinna Snow Hotel in Kemi, Finland, you'll find a unique structure entirely made of snow and ice, sourced from the nearby Bothnian Bay. Each year, the hotel is reconstructed to offer a fresh experience, featuring a variety of snow and ice sculptures, guest rooms, a chapel, and other facilities . The hotel typically operates from January to April, during the coldest months to maintain its icy architecture .

LumiLinna Snow Hotel Attractions

During your stay, you can explore the intricately designed guest rooms that are adorned with fur-lined beds and reindeer skins to ensure warmth . The hotel also boasts a snow chapel, perfect for those looking to have a memorable wedding in a winter wonderland setting. Additionally, the hotel's restaurant and bar are made entirely of ice, providing a chilling yet enchanting dining and drinking experience .

LumiLinna Snow Hotel Icebreaker Experience

Enhance your adventure by participating in winter activities such as snowmobiling and ice fishing. A notable highlight is visiting the nearby icebreaker ship Sampo, which offers a unique experience on the frozen Bothnian Bay . This combination of luxurious ice accommodations and thrilling Arctic activities makes LumiLinna Snow Hotel a standout destination in Scandinavia.

Iglu-Dorf Gstaad, Switzerland

Iglu-Dorf Gstaad Location

Nestled in the Bernese Oberland region, Iglu-Dorf Gstaad offers a unique hotel experience high in the Swiss Alps. Located approximately 1,800 meters above sea level near the town of Gstaad, this igloo village provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is about a 1.5-hour drive from the city of Bern .

Iglu-Dorf Gstaad Room Types

Iglu-Dorf Gstaad features a variety of custom-built igloo accommodations each winter. You can choose from single, double, and family igloos, all equipped with comfortable beds, lighting, and insulation to keep warm during your stay . Each igloo is an art piece itself, adorned with snow and ice art to enhance the magical winter atmosphere .

Iglu-Dorf Gstaad Alpine Activities

During your stay, engage in a range of alpine activities to complete your winter getaway. Enjoy snowshoeing, sledding, and an on-site ice skating rink. For those seeking a more guided experience, participate in a snowshoe trek with a local guide or try your hand at ice sculpting under expert supervision . These activities not only provide fun but also allow you to immerse yourself in the stunning winter landscape of Gstaad .

Conclusion

Embarking on a journey to one of these stunning ice hotels in Scandinavia is not merely a stay; it's an immersive experience into a world of Arctic beauty and cultural majesty. We've ventured through the unique qualities, designs, and myriad of winter activities offered by these icy sanctuaries, from Sweden's pioneering Icehotel to the enchanting SnowVillage in Finland, each with their own character and story. These destinations invite visitors into a serene, frozen landscape, providing not just a bed for the night but a gateway to experiencing the profound silence and mystical aurora of the Arctic winter.

The significance of these ice hotels extends beyond their architectural marvels and into the heart of embracing a delicate, yet adventurous harmony with nature. As these ephemeral structures melt back into the rivers and landscapes from which they came, they remind us of the transient beauty of winter and the sustainable practices that allow us to enjoy such wonders year after year. Whether seeking the thrill of northern lights viewing, the delight of sleeping in a room of ice, or the warmth of Arctic hospitality, a visit to any of these Scandinavian ice hotels promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of winter's magic.

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