Nestled amidst the pristine beauty of the Arctic Circle lies a true winter wonderland – the Arctic SnowHotel in Rovaniemi, Finland. A breathtaking fusion of artistry and nature, this ethereal destination offers a unique and surreal experience like no other.
Staying in an ice hotel has been high on my bucket list for years, so when I had the opportunity to stay at the Arctic SnowHotel in Rovaniemi, Finland, I jumped at the chance. While many people may think it sounds crazy to choose to sleep on a block of ice in subzero temperatures in the middle of the winter, it was an experience I’ll never forget – and I would do it again in a heartbeat! What makes the Arctic SnowHotel so magical is that the hotel is built every winter and melts in the spring, meaning no season at the hotel is ever the same.
Welcome to the enchanting world of the Arctic SnowHotel. In this luxurious icy haven, prepare to be whisked away on a breathtaking journey amidst the wintry wonderland that Finland is so famously known for. Brace yourself for an unforgettable experience, as we delve into the mystique and splendor of the Arctic SnowHotel. Today, we invite you on a journey through this enchanting ice hotel, where ice and imagination intertwine to create a magical retreat perfect for those seeking an unforgettable adventure.
The Artistic Masterpiece:
As you step inside the Arctic SnowHotel, your senses immediately come alive. The air is crisp, and your eyes are greeted by an exquisite display of ice sculptures, intricately carved with mastery and grace. Every corner reveals a new marvel, from towering ice walls adorned with shimmering lights to delicate ice chandeliers casting a gentle glow.
Prepare to be awestruck as you wander through the hotel’s stunning Ice Gallery, illuminated by ethereal natural light. Here, talented artists showcase their breathtaking ice sculptures, transforming each room into a crystalline masterpiece. The interplay of light and ice creates a truly enchanting experience, inspiring a sense of tranquility and wonder.
The Arctic SnowHotel is an artistic masterpiece that seamlessly combines nature’s raw beauty with the creative genius of artisans, leaving you in awe at every turn. Be prepared to be truly captivated as you gaze upon these intricate works of frozen art, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
The Accommodations:
Imagine spending a night in a suite carved entirely out of ice and snow. The Arctic SnowHotel offers an array of stunning ice rooms, each one unique in design and meticulously crafted. Don’t let the icy exterior fool you – inside, you’ll find cozy reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags that keep you warm and comfortable throughout the night.
The walls of your room are crafted from compacted snow, contributing to an otherworldly ambiance that is nothing short of magical. Snuggled amidst an otherworldly beauty, you’ll drift off into a peaceful slumber enveloped in a magical winter embrace.
Despite the freezing temperatures, we slept heavenly during our stay at the Arctic SnowHotel, and waking up to warm Gloggi delivered by the hotel staff kept us warm and cozy while we shuffled in our sleeping bags to gear up again in our ski wear!
What To Pack:
Checking into the Arctic SnowHotel is unlike your traditional hotel experience. Since all of the rooms are made of ice and snow, none of the rooms provided a door or lock and key. Upon arrival, we checked our bags and packed a small bag of essentials to put into our locker within the Arctic SnowHotel. If you’re weary about committing to a full night within the hotel, the hotel offers a heated changing room complete with bunk beds in case you cannot bear the cold. I am proud to say my friend, Brooke, and I completed the challenge with joy and left with a signature diploma to celebrate our success!
Dressing for the Snow Hotel is all about function over fashion. Throughout the day and evening, we wore thermal layers, our ski suits, a Moncler puffer coat, moon boots, waterproof gloves, and a hat. Remember, you’re sleeping in ice above the arctic circle – it will be COLD! We kept warm by drinking warm beverages throughout our stay, but make sure you dress accordingly – the cold is serious.
What made us the most nervous was sleeping, since we were told to sleep only in our thermals under the thermal sleeping bag and insulated sleeping bag. While the shuffle to bed was freezing, we stayed ultra-warm all night by zipping our full body into the bags – only leaving our noses out to breathe! We looked ridiculous, but it was such a fun and restful experience!
Click here to read more about our favorite ski wear
The Activities:
Beyond its magnificent architecture and accommodations, the Arctic SnowHotel offers a myriad of extraordinary activities for the adventurous soul. Embark on a husky safari, where you can mush your own team of lively huskies across the snow-covered wilderness. Glide through the frosty forest on a guided snowshoeing expedition, connecting with nature as you breathe in the pure Arctic air. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, a thrilling snowmobile ride through white landscapes awaits, immersing you in the untamed beauty of Finland. The adventures available will make you feel like a true snow queen!
The Cuisine:
No winter adventure is complete without indulging in delicious fare, and the Arctic SnowHotel certainly delivers on that front. Step into the Ice Restaurant, adorned with ice sculptures and glistening table settings. Savor a gourmet Arctic feast, where regional delicacies such as smoked reindeer, Arctic char, and cloudberries tantalize your taste buds.
Elevate your senses and indulge in the finest Scandinavian beverages at the Arctic SnowHotel’s Ice Bar. Marvel at the intricately designed ice glasses that sparkle in the soft glow of the icy surroundings while sipping on handcrafted cocktails. The ambiance here is unparalleled, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exhilarating Arctic adventures.
One of the highlights of our dining experience was sipping shots to stay warm in the Ice Bar – and since everything within the hotel was made of ice, we got to throw and shatter our ice shot glasses into the igloo walls after we finished them. It was a fun thrill you definitely won’t find at another hotel!
The Surroundings:
One cannot visit the Arctic SnowHotel without exploring the breathtaking landscapes that surround it. Take a chance and glimpse the mesmerizing Northern Lights, dancing across the night sky in a symphony of colors. Absorb the tranquility of a reindeer sleigh ride through the snow-draped forests, connecting with these majestic creatures and the land they call home. Embrace the serenity of ice fishing on a crystal-clear frozen lake, waiting patiently for a catch while basking in the silence of your surroundings. The Arctic SnowHotel allows you to truly connect with nature’s wonders in all their glory.
The Bathrooms:
Ok, while I typically don’t highlight the restroom facilities in a hotel review – this was the number ONE question we were asked! What is the bathroom situation? Well, rest assured this part is covered. Connected to the Snow Hotel is a heated shared bathroom for all of the guests to use. While there is an additional igloo nearby with showers for you to use, we opted out on this and decided to wait until our next accomodation to avoid freezing wet hair – especially since it was simply impossible to break a sweat during our 24 hour stay!
Looking for an adventurous and once-in-a-lifetime experience to add to your travel list? Look no further than the Arctic SnowHotel in Rovaniemi, Finland. It offers a unique escape from the ordinary, immersing you in a world of icy enchantment that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. A stay at the Arctic SnowHotel in Rovaniemi, Finland guarantees an extraordinary, fairytale-like experience beyond compare. Whether you’re immersing yourself in the tranquil snowscapes, marveling at the captivating ice sculptures, or participating in exhilarating winter activities, this unique destination is a haven for those seeking a truly enchanting getaway.Â
Click here to explore the hotel’s website and book your next stay!
