Each winter, the ICEHOTEL – the world’s original – is built anew, carved out of blocks of ice harvested from the Torne River. And, this year is no different, with its latest iteration just unveiled after nearly 10 months of preparation.
According to Arne Bergh, the ICEHOTEL’s creative director, it’s “better than ever”. Think enormous mountain gorillas, fluffy clouds and frozen jungles of monstera plants. In total, there are 35 suites and everything from a ceremony hall to a bar and art gallery, each uniquely crafted out of ice by a team of 36 artists from 17 different countries. They’ve all been specially selected and guided by the ICEHOTEL’s support and lighting team.
Art Suite King Kong. Design Lkhagvadorj Dorjsuren. Photo Asaf Kliger. © ICEHOTEL
Art Suite Wandering Cloud. Design Lisa Lindqvist. Photo Asaf Kliger. © ICEHOTEL
Climb down into an underground mine of crystal ice created by a pair of British brothers. Sleep among a Swedish army of three-metre-tall marching women. Or, dare to cross over a precipitous bridge to reach your bed, in German artist Franziska Agrawal’s aptly named “Danger: Thin Ice” suite. However, for something truly special, book into a labyrinthine room formed from a twisting, 34-metre wall of ice.
Deluxe Suite The invisible (invincible) army . Design Nina Hedman& Lena Kriström. Photo Asaf Kliger. © ICEHOTEL
Art Suite Danger Thin Ice. Design Franziska Agrawal. Photo Asaf Kliger. ICEHOTEL©
To go with the usual dogsledding, snowmobiling and ice-sculpting favourites, the ICEHOTEL has also announced a new collection of activities. There’s even the chance to get married or renew your vows in the Ice Ceremony Hall, while an Icegram service offers personalised bouquets and frosted messages.
The Chef’s Table experience is a particular highlight, with Michelin-star-winning chef Alexander Meier presenting a 12-course degustation menu of local produce. Expect everything from fir sprouts to cloudberries. Of course, whichever excursion you choose, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the night-time apparition of the Northern Lights.
Inspired? Take a look at our itineraries below, or – for some year-round fun –there’s always the ICEHOTEL 365.
Holiday Inspiration
Interested in staying at Sweden's original ICEHOTEL? We’ve put together our favourite packages for you to consider:
