For over three decades, the village of Jukkasjärvi in northern Sweden has become a winter wonderland, serving as the canvas for the unique and breathtaking ICEHOTEL, an establishment crafted entirely from snow and ice. Each winter, artists, architects, and engineers from around the globe converge in this small village to create a new iteration of the hotel, with this year’s showcase being ICEHOTEL 35. Under the guidance of Creative Director Luca Roncoroni, 26 artists from 13 countries collaborated to construct an artistic masterpiece, using 500 tons of ice and an impressive volume of snow to realize 14 distinct art suites. Notable installations include the life-sized rhinoceros suite “WHOOPS WRONG ROOM!!” and the Sami-inspired “Áhku Fáhcat.” Despite facing challenges from warmer-than-usual weather, ICEHOTEL 35 promises visitors extraordinary creations that transcend mere accommodation—an immersive encounter with art in a remarkable, cold setting.
The ICEHOTEL offers an unparalleled experience, welcoming guests from December through April. Visitors seeking a taste of the icy charm can also revel in ICEHOTEL 365, which remains operational year-round. This version features 18 additional suites encompassing an ice gallery and the newly introduced ICEBAR In Orbit, where patrons can enjoy drinks served in glasses made from ice. Such innovations reinforce the hotel’s reputation as a unique destination where art and ingenuity meet the raw beauty of the Arctic landscape. “Our art suites are playful, stunning, surprising, and deeply moving,” remarks Marie Herrey, CEO of ICEHOTEL. This commitment to artistic excellence and creativity draws visitors eager to engage with the hotel and its seasonal transformations.
Situated north of the Arctic Circle, Jukkasjärvi draws its name from “meeting place by the water,” reflecting its geographical charm with surrounding lakes and rivers. Every November, ice blocks are harvested from the nearby Torne River in preparation for the upcoming winter season, and ideas for suite designs and installations are open to all. This creative engagement becomes an annual invitation for artists and enthusiasts alike, even if only a fraction of designs come to fruition in ICEHOTEL’s transient form. Creative Director Luca Roncoroni notes that this annual shift encourages artistic experimentation, linking the freedom of new ideas with consistent challenges, fostering a dynamic environment that nourishes creativity.
Despite the cold setting, sleeping at ICEHOTEL has garnered popularity, with more than a million guests since its inception. Before embarking on their icy slumber, guests participate in a “survival course,” learning how to properly dress and use Arctic sleeping bags designed to endure temperatures as low as -13° F. Inside the suites, temperatures are kept to a minimum of -5° F, ensuring that the experience remains both exhilarating and surprisingly comfortable. Jenny Anderson from Guest Services emphasizes the positive reactions from guests, many of whom are pleasantly surprised by their ability to sleep well in the crisp, cold air. Accommodations also include access to warm storage areas and shared facilities featuring saunas and fireplaces, enhancing the overall guest experience.
The story of the ICEHOTEL began in 1989 when founder Yngve Bergqvist explored Jukkasjärvi and envisioned a way to celebrate winter instead of avoiding it. Inspired by the wonder of winter nights illuminated by the Northern Lights, he sought to transform the perception of the region and attract both locals and visitors alike. Establishing a platform for ice artistry, he invited artists from around the world to participate in workshops. After witnessing the success of a temporary igloo gallery known as ARTic Hall, the concept of a permanent ice hotel began to take shape. Guests who experienced the enchanting beauty of sleeping in an igloo inspired the development of what we now know as the ICEHOTEL.
The ICEHOTEL is not solely focused on overnight stays; it provides an array of adventurous activities tailored to all seasons. Wintertime activities such as snowmobile safaris, reindeer sleigh rides, dog sledding, and even ice fishing showcase the natural beauty surrounding Jukkasjärvi. Visitors can engage in traditional Arctic experiences, diving into the landscape’s culture while enjoying the incredibly picturesque terrain. In contrast, the warmer months invite guests to partake in various outdoor activities, including fishing, mountain hikes, and even guided boat tours, allowing them to interact with the beautiful terrain throughout the year.
Ultimately, the ICEHOTEL captures the essence of human creativity intertwining with the magnificent Arctic wilderness. Each room serves as a testimony to artistic genius, allowing people to immerse themselves in an environment that heightens the senses and offers an escape from everyday life. The constantly changing nature of the hotel means that every visit is distinct, making the experience both personal and unforgettable, long after the sculptures have melted. The ICEHOTEL stands as a beacon of artistry and ingenuity, offering guests a transformative journey interwoven with the breathtaking beauty of winter’s ephemeral existence.
