Located in the enchanting city of Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, the ICEHOTEL stands as a unique marvel, inviting guests to step into a magical world crafted entirely from snow and ice. This iconic landmark, open year-round, offers an extraordinary experience that goes beyond traditional accommodations. In this article, we'll explore what makes ICEHOTEL a must-visit destination, how to get there, the cost of this frosty adventure, and the best times to embark on this chilly yet captivating journey.
What is the ICEHOTEL?
The ICEHOTEL, nestled in the Northern Swedish city of Jukkasjärvi, is a remarkable and iconic landmark. What makes it truly exceptional is that it's not just a hotel but a winter wonderland made entirely of snow and ice. The hotel boasts rooms crafted from ice, including the walls and bed frames. Interestingly, the ICEHOTEL Winter is a seasonal marvel that melts every spring, only to be rebuilt anew each year. On the other hand, the ICEHOTEL 365 is a permanent structure, ensuring a chilly yet enchanting experience year-round.
The concept of ICEHOTEL was born in 1989 when Japanese artist Jukka Ylimartimo created an ice sculpture exhibition in a cylindrical-shaped igloo. By 1990, the first official ICEHOTEL was constructed, initially attracting local visitors. Over the years, it gained international acclaim, with 2001 marking the opening of the unique Ice Church, a venue for weddings and ceremonies. To accommodate its growing popularity, the ICEHOTEL introduced ICEHOTEL 365 in 2016 – a permanent structure kept cool using solar power.
Apart from the enchanting accommodations, guests have the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, and the hotel is even pet-friendly. For those wanting to stay connected, there's the added perk of free Wi-Fi.
When is the best time to visit the ICEHOTEL?
While ICEHOTEL welcomes visitors year-round, the experience varies based on the season. For the quintessential winter wonderland, plan your visit between December and April. If a warmer experience is more to your liking, consider traveling between May and September. Despite being summer, Jukkasjärvi's northern location means temperatures rarely exceed 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
The choice of activities also depends on the season. Winter offers dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice plunges, skiing, and sledding, while summer brings opportunities for hiking, bicycling, fishing, boating, kayaking, and rafting. Ultimately, there is no 'better' time to visit; it's all about aligning your trip with the activities that interest you the most. Whether you're a winter enthusiast or a summer adventurer, ICEHOTEL has something magical to offer year-round.
How do you get to the ICEHOTEL?
Reaching the ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi is an adventure in itself. Situated 200 km above the Arctic Circle, the city is accessible by flights from Stockholm Arlanda Airport to Kiruna Airport, taking approximately 90 minutes. Alternatively, a train journey from Stockholm to Kiruna takes about 14 hours. Once in Kiruna, whether by plane or train, the ICEHOTEL is a mere 20-minute drive away.
For added convenience, the ICEHOTEL offers a transfer bus from Kiruna (requiring booking at least 3 days in advance). During the winter months (December to April), guests can opt for a unique dogsled experience from Kiruna, a picturesque journey taking around 90 minutes. Those with a penchant for road trips can also drive to the ICEHOTEL, with the Torne River north providing a scenic route.
How much does the ICEHOTEL cost?
As of January 2024, the ICEHOTEL offers an enticing "ICELEBRATE PACKAGE." This package includes a two-night stay for 2 guests, featuring a night in a warm Kaamos hotel room and another night in the breathtaking Art Suite, filled with art made of ice and snow. The Art Suite maintains a cool 5 degrees Celsius, with warm blankets provided for comfort. Prices for this package vary based on the chosen dates, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500.
For those who prefer different options, third-party platforms like Expedia offer various room choices. On Expedia, standard room prices for 2 guests range from $100 to $400 per night. Icerooms, designed for 2 to 4 guests, come with a higher price tag, ranging from $700 to $800 per night. Expedia also presents ice room suites, exceeding $1,000 per night, providing diverse options to suit different preferences and budgets.
Visit website:
Visit Expedia:
Comentarios