Sweden ICEHOTEL

Where is the ICEHOTEL?
Despite popular misconceptions – the original ICEHOTEL isn’t in Iceland, it is in Sweden! Nestled amidst tranquil wilderness in the heart of Swedish Lapland, the ICEHOTEL is actually located in Jukkasjarvi, 200km north of the Arctic Circle and just a short drive from the airport in Kiruna. The village of Jukkasjarvi has a small museum and a pretty church. There isn't much else nearby apart from picturesque scenery and the Homestead (a highly recommended rustic restaurant), so evenings are usually spent in the ICEHOTEL complex, where you can enjoy your intriguing surroundings.

Is everything in the ICEHOTEL made of ice?
The ICEHOTEL itself is made out of ice from the river Torne. Inside you will find almost everything imaginable in a normal hotel, but made out of ice – from shimmering ice sculptures and artwork, to glittering ice chandeliers, ice chairs, ice suites, beds sculpted from ice and even a hotel bar made out of ice! There are a few exceptions however, the ICEHOTEL complex actually consists of a number of different buildings, offering different accommodation options, so you will also find comfortable warm toilets and can stay in a warm Kaamos room or cabin as part or all of your stay.

Is it true the ICEHOTEL is made by magic?
Well, you might have to see it to believe it! Visitors often comment on the magical feel of the ICEHOTEL, in actual fact it is created each year by a combination of nature and man - the natural freezing over of the Torne river and a lot of hardwork by people from all over the world, who enable this magic creation to be born again and again. Each year a team of snowbuilders, architects, designers and artists from all corners of the world create the ICEHOTEL.

Why is the ice used to build the hotel so crystal clear?
The ice which is used to build this incredible structure is a particular feature of the ICEHOTEL in Sweden as it is crystal clear. Some say this is due to the mystical properties of the river, others say that the river Torne is usually so free-flowing that it ensures few bubbles are trapped within it, leaving a crystal clear ice once it is frozen. The sight, as you open the main, reindeer-skin clad doors, is simply breathtaking – a grand, ice pillared hallway illuminated by a spectacular crystal clear ice chandelier.

How cold is it inside the ICEHOTEL?
Kept at a constant -5°C to -8°C, the interior actually feels quite pleasant, especially when outside temperatures can drop to around -37°C! Walk past several ice sculptures and imaginatively lit ice art towards one of the most popular rooms - the Absolut Ice Bar. With its vaulted ceiling, plenty of ice block seating (thankfully covered in reindeer skins) and see-through bar, it serves an impressive range of colourful vodka cocktails, naturally served in chunky ice glasses! Hot cocktails are also served and provide an instant form of central heating, but be careful not to stand them on the bar, for obvious reasons!

Is there a restaurant in the ICEHOTEL?
When staying at the ICEHOTEL, meals are taken in a separate heated building across the road from reception. The restaurant offers an extensive breakfast and lunchtime buffet and an à la carte dinner menu. A selection of light meals and snacks are available at the cosy basement bar and just a little further along the main road, the Homestead restaurant serves excellent hearty buffet style meals in a rustic setting.

When can I visit the ICEHOTEL?
The ICEHOTEL is available from mid-December to mid-April, although December and very early January will be during the later stages of construction. Ice rooms will be ready for guests at this time and you’ll also be able to watch some of the ice sculptures and artists at work, finishing off their creations and certain aspects of the hotel, which is quite a privilege. However, if you prefer to see the hotel complete in all its glittering glory, then the best time to travel is from January onwards.

What happens to the ICEHOTEL in the spring?
As spring comes to Sweden, the ICEHOTEL gradually melts away. Walls give way to fresh air, sculptures change and then disappear as the crystal clear ice melts into running water, which once again rejoins the Torne river. As if by magic, by summer time the ICEHOTEL has disappeared and the river Torne flows at full capacity once again.

What type of room should I stay in?
Some people visit the ICEHOTEL for the novelty of sleeping on ice, others prefer to enjoy visiting the ICEHOTEL by day and sleeping in a warm cabin at night. Most stays at the ICEHOTEL are a minimum of three nights with two spent in warm accommodation and one night sleeping on ice. This night can be spent in a standard Snow Room or you may wish to upgrade to an Ice Room or Art Suite. Ice Rooms are slightly larger than Snow Rooms and have the addition of ice 'furniture'. Art Suites are the most spacious and impressive, individually themed with striking ice sculptures and a bed that can only be described as a work of art! These are very popular with honeymoon couples, with sleeping bags made for two! The warm accommodation is heated and consists of Nordic and Northern Lights chalets and Kaamos rooms. find out more »

Please note that although sleeping in an ice room is a great experience, some people find it’s not for them. If you have particular sleeping requirements, you may wish to reserve a heated room as back-up at an additional cost, please call our reservations team for advice and to discuss your options.

Can you see the Northern Lights at the ICEHOTEL?
During the winter months, the Northern Lights can be seen across a clear night sky. The ICEHOTEL is excellently located for viewing the Northern Lights if they do make an appearance. Please remember the Northern Lights are a natural phenomena and as such can never be guaranteed to illuminate the night sky. But if you are lucky enough to experience nature’s most amazing light show, you’ll be hooked!

Can you get married at the ICEHOTEL?
Yes – every year the ICEHOTEL incorporates a beautiful ice chapel into its design and, as no two ice chapels are alike, this adds to the feeling of exclusivity and uniqueness for your special day. Everyone looks for that little something extra when choosing a wedding venue and the ice chapel certainly has it all... find out more »

What do I need to take with me to the ICEHOTEL?
You need to make sure that you pack plenty of clothes, to enable you to layer your clothing as much as possible. On arrival at the ICEHOTEL you will also be given special clothing for use during your stay. This includes a thermal suit, thermal boots, fleece lined hat and over-gloves. Make sure you bring your own hat, gloves and plenty of warm clothing to wear underneath. Flat shoes with a good grip are also essential - you won’t be wearing a skirt or heels in the Ice Bar!

Daylight Hours in Swedish Lapland
Approximate hours of daylight recorded mid-month (varies according to snow and cloud cover) - this does not relate to sunrise and sunset but the actual full daylight period. Also in December and January during decreased daylight hours there is polar light (a blue subdued light) - not complete darkness. Approximate average temperatures given in degrees Celsius.