Every winter, as the waters of the Torne River freeze over, sculpted blocks of ice are cut and shaped, to be formed into the Icehotel. Stood on the banks of the frozen river amid a spectacular wilderness of unspoiled pine forests and icebound lakes, the Icehotel is a shimmering design-led structure. Step inside to see what all the fuss is about. From the hallways lined with ice art and glittering chandeliers through to the ice suites and atmospheric ice bar, you’ll be amazed by the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the construction.
The actual experience of sleeping on ice is far more comfortable than you might imagine. Each suite is individually themed and hand-carved by artists commissioned from all around the world. Each is unique and has never been created before. The bed itself is covered with reindeer hides and you’ll snuggle down in a thermal sleeping bag. There are cosy warm beds in a separate part of the Icehotel as well for additional nights.
Add in fine dining prepared by a Michelin-trained chef and you’ve a seriously stylish experience. For a special occasion, let us secure a seat at the Chef’s Table on the Veranda for you, where you’ll enjoy a twelve-course menu accompanied by handpicked drinks to complement the flavours of the food. In summer, join a chef to go foraging for berries and plants for a Sami-inspired supper or, in the course of one of the region’s eight seasons sample a three-course wilderness meal at a secluded wilderness camp, inspired by the particular season you’re visiting in.
As well as the extraordinary sleeping experience, there are a wide range of winter activities to try. Take a class on ice sculpting if you’re inspired by your surrounds. Set off into the empty, unspoiled wilderness on a fishing adventure, dog-sled safari or snowmobile hunt for the Northern Lights. Let a local guide lead you in search of reindeer, foxes, hares and grouse or get close to moose during a horseback safari. Try your hand at driving a dog sled or take charge of a reindeer sled under the tutelage of a traditional Sami reindeer herder. Have an expert survivalist share the skills and techniques necessary for navigating the wilderness and living in the wild.
Can’t travel over winter or aren’t able to secure the dates you want? Don’t worry. The innovative Icehotel 365 is a permanent structure cooled by solar power that allows you to experience the Icehotel all year round. What’s more, visit in summer and you can combine bunking down on a bed of ice with sleeping under the Midnight Sun, river rafting or paddle boarding on the Torne River, for a matchless experience.
