Packing up the kids and heading south to escape the winter is a common travel path. But there’s also something to be said for embracing the cooler months—or, in the case of the ice hotel, diving head-first into a frozen landscape.
Although there are dozens of temporary ice hotels and semi-permanent igloo-style structures to choose from, there are certain snow structures and villages that stand out for their winter-themed art and amenities.The world’s best ice hotels provide a unique experience sure to provide life-long memories for young and old alike. And if sleeping on ice isn’t adventurous enough, many offer a roster of outdoor activities to fill your days.
From artistic quarters in Sweden to snow-suites positioned for views of the Northern Lights in Norway, we’ve rounded up some of the coolest ice hotels to add to your family’s travel bucket list.
The ICEHOTEL
Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
When to Visit: Year-round
This Swedish landmark has been drawing visitors from around the world since it was first created more than 30 years ago. The world’s first hand-sculpted ice hotel is rebuilt in a new and unique fashion every year and is available to book from December through to April—but the property has seen such success for its stunning Arctic landscape and dog sled rides that it recently opened the ICEHOTEL 365, a permanent structure that allows guests to visit the icy village year-round. icehotel.com
The Hôtel de Glace
Quebec City, Canada
When to Visit: January through March
The Hôtel de Glace in Quebec City is your best bet for a snowy weekend getaway—the flight to Quebec City from New York is under two hours). The Nordic-inspired escape is the only one of its kind in North America, offering themed rooms with in-suite ice sculptures, private hot tubs and fireplaces, and a reservation at the neighboring Hôtel Valcartier—just in case you gett too chilly, or just want a hot shower. valcartier.com
The Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel
Alta, Norway
When to Visit: December through mid-April
Considered to be the world’s northernmost ice hotel, the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel offers a striking escape to the splendor of the north. Its hand-carved design is re-imaged and re-built every winter; each of the themed suites has a different look, and the family suites can sleep two adults and two kids. The Norwegian hotel offers a variety of Arctic adventure packages that you can customize based on your family’s interests, ranging from snowmobile expeditions and king crab fishing to reindeer sleigh rides and overnight husky mushing trips. sorrisniva.no
The Snowhotel Kirkenes
Bjørnevatn, Norway
When to Visit: Year-round
Norway is a prime location for catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. The Snowhotel Kirkenes caters to those hoping to tick the natural phenomenon off their bucket list—and lets you stay in an inn constructed from ice and snow. (For a cozier experience, choose the Gamme Cabins, modeled on traditional arched huts.) The property offers an abundance of activities, including husky tours, ice fishing, and snow yoga. The hotel and cabins are open for visitors year-round, but the best time to catch the lights is mid-January to March. snowhotelkirkenes.com
The Snow Village
Kittilä, Finland
When to Visit: January through April
The Snow Village in Kittilä offers something for every kind of snow-loving traveler. The comprehensive village features two-hectares of icy rooms and suites, an ice sculpture exhibition, and an ice restaurant complete with hand-sculpted tables and chairs, a Nordic menu, and a neighboring ice bar that serves up everything from hot chocolate to craft cocktails. Laplandhotels.com
The SnowCastle of Kemi
Kemi, Finland
When to Visit: Year-round
Not ready to commit to sleeping on a block of ice? This year-round ice-themed resort takes a choose-your-own-adventure approach. The SnowCastle of Kemi features everything you’d expect from a snow and ice village—including a hand-sculpted ice restaurant and ice sculpture gallery—while accommodations range from traditional ice rooms and luxurious seaside villas to budget-friendly snow-castle camping plots for RVs. Experience365.fi
Schneedorf Igloo Village
Ötztal, Austria
When to Visit: December through April
Located in the middle of a ski resort, the Schneedorf Igloo Village in Ötztal, Austria is a great option for active families. In addition to skiing, guests can go sledding on the slopes, snowshoe, participate in igloo-building workshops, explore the full-sized outdoor parkour area and more. It’s also worth noting that the property is home to a stunning outdoor thermal spa perched over the Ötztal Alps. schneedorf.com
