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Icehotel
Swedish Lapland, Sweden
Overview
Introduction
Located in Jukkasjärvi, in the heart of the unspoiled wilderness of Swedish Lapland, stands the world famous and original ICEHOTEL. For the last 30 years, each winter a unique and breathtaking sculpture has taken form on the banks of the River Torne; a structure where everything from the artwork, to the chairs you sit on, the beds you sleep on, and the glass in your hand has been made using carefully harvested, crystal clear ice from the neighbouring river.
In November 2016, the ICEHOTEL launched a new 365 day concept, allowing guests to experience sleeping on ice all year round in a specially designed permanent building. During winter, the exterior looks similar to that of the original ICEHOTEL structure but in summer it has a grass covered roof adorned with Arctic mountain flowers and kept cool by several solar panels.
A stay at this exquisite property is guaranteed to be one that you will never forget.
Cold Accommodation
These rooms are located within the original ICEHOTEL structure and the newer ICEHOTEL 365 building. The ICEHOTEL 2017-18 will house 20 Ice rooms and 15 Art suites. The ICEHOTEL 365 will house 11 Art suites 365 and 9 Deluxe suites. Approximately 25 artists and architects are commissioned each year to decorate and design the rooms, bar and gallery.
ICEHOTEL
Ice rooms: Rooms with special beds built of snow and ice and decorated with furniture made from ice. Some Ice rooms can accommodate 3 people and one room can accommodate 4 people.
Art suites: Individually designed rooms with special beds built of snow and ice and decorated with furniture and unique artwork made from ice. All rooms have been designed and sculpted by international artists. Some Art suites can accommodate 3 people.
ICEHOTEL 365
Art suites 365: Similar to Winter suites, these rooms are individually designed with special beds built of snow and ice and decorated with furniture and unique artwork made from ice. All rooms have been designed and sculpted by international artists.
Deluxe suites: Hilla, Jauvre and Johka are individually designed rooms with a special bed built of snow and ice and decorated with furniture and unique artwork made from ice. Hilla has an en-suite bathroom (shower and sauna), Jauvre has an en-suite bathroom (bath, shower and sauna) and Johka has an en-suite bathroom (shower).
Notes
- Beds are made out of snow and ice and insulated by a mattress and topped with reindeer skins.
- You will be provided with a subzero sleeping bag.
- All rooms in the original ICEHOTEL building have curtain doors whereas the ICEHOTEL 365 rooms have a solid door.
- Guests staying in the original ICEHOTEL have shared bathroom facilities (toilet, shower, changing rooms and lockers) in an annexe building.
- Guests staying in the Art suites (ICEHOTEL 365) have use of the shared heated washrooms (toilet, shower, changing rooms and lockers) in an annexe building but also have a toilet within the ICEHOTEL 365 building. Guests staying in the Deluxe suites (ICEHOTEL 365) have a private heated relaxation area with sauna and en-suite bathroom with shower.
- Sauna (free of charge for guest use).
- Luggage cannot be taken into the ICEHOTEL's cold accommodation structure. Secure storage is available.
- Inside the hotel the temperature is at a constant -5°C to -8°C.
- The ICEHOTEL is a museum during the day from 10am until 6pm. Overnight guests are allowed access to their room after 6pm and the wake-up call is around 7:30am.
- Cold accommodation is not recommended for children under 6 years.
Warm Accommodation
These rooms are located in the grounds of the ICEHOTEL.
Kaamos Rooms: Decorated using a contemporary Scandinavian design these rooms have double or twin beds, bathroom (shower and hairdryer), TV, telephone, WIFI internet connection and kettle.
Nordic Hotel Chalets: Decorated using a contemporary Scandinavian design, each Nordic hotel chalet has two bedrooms - one double/twin bedroom and one room with bunk beds - bathroom (shower and hairdryer) and a separate living room with TV, telephone, WIFI internet connection, kettle and fridge.
Arctic Hotel Chalets: Decorated using a Scandinavian wood cabin design, each Arctic hotel chalet has two bedrooms – one double bedroom and one single bedroom - bathroom (shower and hairdryer) and a separate living room with TV, telephone, WIFI internet connection, kettle and fridge.
Amenities/Leisure
- Buffet breakfast
- Guests staying in cold accommodation are awakened in the morning with a cup of hot lingonberry juice
- Warm outer clothing is provided for all guests on arrival: snow suit, boots and mittens
- ICEHOTEL restaurant offering an à la carte evening menu and specialising in Lappish gourmet cuisine. Reservations are recommended. Table reservations available at 18:00, 19:30 and 21:00. A chef's choice two-course menu costs c.450 SEK per person and a four-course menu costs c.855 SEK per person. ICE menu c.895 SEK per person
- Homestead restaurant serving an à la carte menu – approximately 800m from the ICEHOTEL overlooking the Torne River. Reservations are recommended. Table reservations available at 17:30 and 20:00.
- Lounge
- ICEBAR by ICEHOTEL.
- Ice Church – this is a popular location for weddings
- Transfers by husky sled from Kiruna Airport are available on request
Open: The ICEHOTEL will open on 13 December 2019 to 13 April 2020. The ICEHOTEL 365 will accept guests year-round. Arrivals in November may be able to see the sculptors at work.
Notes: Due to the unique nature of the original ICEHOTEL, it takes a different form each year. Opening and closing dates are very much dependent on the weather. The images shown, of the cold accommodation, are from structures over the years.
Map
Ice Rooms
Ice room with special beds built of snow and ice and decorated with furniture made from ice. Shared bathroom facilities (toilet, shower, changing rooms and lockers) in an annexe building. Some ice rooms can accommodate 3 people and one room can accommodate 4 people.
Art Suites
Individually designed rooms with special beds built of snow and ice and decorated with furniture and unique artwork made from ice. All rooms have been designed and sculpted by international artists. Shared bathroom facilities (toilet, shower, changing rooms and lockers) in an annexe building. Some Art suites can accommodate 3 people.
Art Suites (ICEHOTEL 365)
These rooms are individually designed with special beds built of snow and ice and decorated with furniture and unique artwork made from ice. All rooms have been designed and sculpted by international artists. Shared bathroom facilities (toilet, shower, changing rooms and lockers) in an annexe building.
Deluxe Suites (ICEHOTEL 365)
Hilla, Jauvre and Johka are individually designed rooms with a special bed built of snow and ice and decorated with furniture and unique artwork made from ice. Hilla has an en-suite bathroom (shower and sauna), Jauvre has an en-suite bathroom (bath, shower and sauna) and Johka has an en-suite bathroom (shower).
Warm Room
Kaamos Rooms: Decorated using a contemporary Scandinavian design these rooms have double or twin beds, bathroom (shower and hairdryer), TV, telephone, WIFI internet connection and kettle. Nordic Hotel Chalets: Decorated using a contemporary Scandinavian design, each Nordic hotel chalet has two bedrooms - one double/twin bedroom and one room with bunk beds - bathroom (shower and hairdryer) and a separate living room with TV, telephone, WIFI internet connection, kettle and fridge. Arctic Hotel Chalets: Decorated using a Scandinavian wood cabin design, each Arctic hotel chalet has two bedrooms – one double bedroom and one single bedroom - bathroom (shower and hairdryer) and a separate living room with TV, telephone, WIFI internet connection, kettle and fridge.
Activities
Winter 2019/2020
Snowmobile Tours
Snowmobile Adventure with Fika - by shared snowmobile
This introductory tour is ideal for those wishing to try their hand at driving a snowmobile and takes participants across the frozen lakes and bogs which surround the ICEHOTEL and to viewpoints on the nearby undulating hills. A Swedish fika (coffee and cake) by an open fire is included.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Departures: 13:00-16:00 (Daily from 01 Dec-13 Apr)
- Price: £124.00 per adult* / £62.00 per child (6-12 years)
- The supplement to drive your own snowmobile is £70.00 per adult
Notes:
- Approximately 2 hours is spent onboard the snowmobile. The duration spent onboard the snowmobile will be determined by weather conditions on the day.
- This tour starts at the ICEHOTEL.
General Comments:
- Each tour is led by one experienced guide per eight snowmobiles.
- All guides are trained and hold the Swedish Transport Board’s permission to work as a snowmobile guide.
- Helmets are provided to all participants.
- Snowmobile overalls, shoes, hat and gloves is included.
- You are seated 2 persons per snowmobile unless a supplement is paid for a private snowmobile. One person is required to drive the vehicle.
- The minimum age to drive a snowmobile is 18 years old. A valid driving licence is required.
- The suggested minimum age for a snowmobile passenger is 13 years old.
- One child is permitted per paying adult.
- An excess of 8000SEK is payable in the event of an accident/damage to the snowmobile.
- The consumption of alcohol is not permitted if driving.
Northern Lights Snowmobile Tour with Dinner - by shared snowmobile
This snowmobile excursion goes in search of the magical Northern Lights in the unspoiled wilderness surrounding the ICEHOTEL. Away from all artificial lights, your eyes will be drawn upwards towards the heavens and, should conditions permit, the colourful waves of Lady Aurora.
A two-course evening meal is served in a wilderness cabin during which your guide will tell you truths and tales about the celestial phenomenon.
- Duration: 4 hours
- Departures: Daily 19:00-23:00 (from 13 Dec - 25 Mar) and 20:00-24:00 (from 26 Mar -13 Apr).
- Price: £186.00 per adult* / £93.00 per child (6-12 years)
- The supplement to drive your own snowmobile is £70.00 per adult
Notes:
- Approximately 2½ hours are spent onboard the snowmobile. The duration spent onboard the snowmobile will be determined by weather conditions on the day.
- This tour starts at the ICEHOTEL.
- Please advise any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
General Comments:
- Each tour is led by one experienced guide per eight snowmobiles.
- All guides are trained and hold the Swedish Transport Board’s permission to work as a snowmobile guide.
- Helmets are provided to all participants.
- The rental of snowmobile overalls, shoes, hat and gloves is included.
- You are seated 2 persons per snowmobile unless a supplement is paid for a private snowmobile. One person is required to drive the vehicle.
- The minimum age to drive a snowmobile is 18 years old. A valid driving licence is required.
- The suggested minimum age for a snowmobile passenger is 13 years old.
- One child is permitted per paying adult.
- An excess of 8000SEK is payable in the event of an accident/damage to the snowmobile.
- The consumption of alcohol is not permitted if driving.
Arctic Wildlife Safari - by shared snowmobile
Along with a local guide, this tour takes you through magnificent mountain scenery and will teach you about the surrounding nature and the local wildlife – in particular about what impact the moose has on the Swedish mountain climate and how to trace their tracks. Lunch is included.
- Duration: 6 hours
- Departures: 09:00-15:00 (Daily from 8 Dec to 7 Apr)
- Price: £293.00 per adult
- The supplement to drive your own snowmobile is £95.00 per adult
Notes:
- Approximately 3 hours are spent onboard the snowmobile. The duration spent onboard the snowmobile will be determined by weather conditions on the day.
- This tour starts at the ICEHOTEL.
- Please advise any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
General Comments:
- Each tour is led by one experienced guide per eight snowmobiles.
- All guides are trained and hold the Swedish Transport Board’s permission to work as a snowmobile guide.
- Helmets are provided to all participants.
- The rental of snowmobile overalls, shoes, hat and gloves is included.
- You are seated 2 persons per snowmobile unless a supplement is paid for a private snowmobile. One person is required to drive the vehicle.
- The minimum age to drive a snowmobile is 18 years old. A valid driving licence is required.
- The minimum age for a snowmobile passenger is 12 years old.
- One child is permitted per paying adult.
- An excess of 8000SEK is payable in the event of an accident/damage to the snowmobile.
- The consumption of alcohol is not permitted if driving.
Overnight Snowmobile Tour - drive your own snowmobile
This guided snowmobile tour will transport you away from the artificial lights of Jukkasjärvi to a traditional log cabin, beautifully situated on the waters-edge. A roaring fire will be prepared by your host whilst you relax and enjoy your candle-lit surroundings and take a wood-fired sauna. An evening meal and breakfast are included.
- Duration: 18 hours
- Departures: Friday and Saturday only (from 15 Dec to 15 Apr). Depart 16:00 and return at 10:00 the following day.
- Price: £531.00 per adult
Notes:
- One guest per snowmobile.
- Sleeping bag and towel for the sauna provided.
- The tour starts at the ICEHOTEL.
- Please advise any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
General Comments:
- Each tour is led by one experienced guide per eight snowmobiles.
- All guides are trained and hold the Swedish Transport Board’s permission to work as a snowmobile guide.
- Helmets are provided to all participants.
- The rental of snowmobile overalls, shoes, hat and gloves is included.
- The minimum age to drive a snowmobile is 18 years old. A valid driving licence is required.
- Minimum of 2 participants.
- An excess of 8000SEK is payable in the event of an accident/damage to the snowmobile.
- The consumption of alcohol is not permitted if driving.
Dog Sled Tours
Dog Sled Ride in the Winter Wonderland
On this short dog sled tour you will observe the sheer joy experienced by husky dogs as they prepare to run. You will also hear the fall of silence as the journey begins. Sit back on your sled as it is steered by your musher-guide and watch the snow-covered landscape pass by. Coffee and cake is served around a campfire.
- Duration: 1½ hours
- Departures: 09:30-11:00 or 13:00-14:30 (Daily from 15 Nov to 13 Apr)
- Price: £151.00 per adult / £76.00 per child (6-12 years).
Notes:
- Each sled carries a maximum of 4 passengers. Please note that you may be required to share a sled with other guests.
- Each sled is pulled by 8-14 dogs.
- Approximately 1 hour is spent on the sled. The duration spent onboard the sled will be determined by weather conditions on the day.
- The tour starts at the ICEHOTEL.
General Comments:
- The rental of winter overalls, shoes, hat and gloves is included.
- The suggested minimum age for a dog-sled passenger is 13 years old.
- One child is permitted per paying adult.
Dog Sled Tour with Wilderness Lunch – drive your own dog sled
On this lunch time excursion, you will gain an insight into a musher’s everyday life. It is a hands-on excursion where you will not only learn about the equipment used but how to drive your own team.
Lunch is included and served in a wilderness camp during the tour. On your return to the kennels you will help to unharness your dogs.
- Duration: 4 hours
- Departures: 11:15-15:15 (Daily from 01 Dec to 20 Apr)
- Price: £404.00 per person*
* Please note that it is also possible to participate on this excursion solely as a passenger on the sled - the choice is yours. As a passenger your sled is driven by an experienced musher-guide. The price for being a passenger only is £323.00 per adult or £162.00 per child (6-12 years).
Notes:
- Approximately 2½ hours is spent onboard the sled. The duration spent onboard the sled will be determined by weather conditions on the day.
- The tour starts at the ICEHOTEL.
- The transfer to the kennels from the ICEHOTEL is by snowmobile sled.
- If you experience this excursion as a passenger you will share your sled with other passengers
- Please advise any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
General Comments:
- The rental of winter overalls, shoes, hat and gloves is included.
- The suggested minimum age for a musher is 15 years and for a dog-sled passenger is 6 years old.
Overnight Tour and Search for the Northern Lights - drive your own dog sled
Drive your own team of huskies on an exciting dog sled adventure in search of the Northern Lights. The tour begins at the kennels and your overnight stay is in a wilderness camp with access to a wood-fired sauna. Dinner and breakfast are included.
- Duration: 19½ hours
- Departures: Daily (01 Dec to 15 Apr). Depart 15:30 and return at 11:00 the following day
- Price: £706.00 per person
Notes:
- The sled is used to transport personal belongings (and not for passengers).
- Each sled is pulled by approximately 4 dogs.
- Approximately 75 minutes are spent driving the sled in each direction.
- The tour starts at the ICEHOTEL.
- Please advise any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
General comments:
- The rental of winter overalls, shoes, hat and gloves is included.
- Minimum of 4 participants
Trap Line Dog Sled Tour
The kennels of Bert Ove Johansson are located in Laxforsen, 10km from Kiruna, and have been certified by the ‘Nature’s Best’ environmental award. A favourite of the Sunvil Team.
After meeting your team of huskies at the kennels, you will depart for a tour of the surrounding Arctic wilderness. Watch the white landscape glide past from your seat or from the mushers/driver’s position – it is a truly wonderful experience!
Light refreshments will be served in a wilderness hut whilst the guide tells stories about the huskies and the traditional way of life and of survival techniques used in the area. It is possible to take a short snow shoe walk in the surroundings of the hut. Return to the kennels by dog sled.
- Duration: 4 hours
- Departures: Daily (01 Dec - 06 Apr). Pick-up from the ICEHOTEL at 10:15.
- Adult price (shared sled): £185.00 (01 - 20 Dec) or £205.00 (21 Dec - 06 Apr) per person.
- Adult price (private sled): £249.00 (01 - 20 Dec) or £277.00 (21 Dec - 06 Apr) per person.
- Child price (shared sled): £93.00 (01 - 20 Dec) or £103.00 (21 Dec - 06 Apr) per child (12-16 yrs).
Please note that it is also possible to participate on this excursion solely as a passenger on the sled - the choice is yours. As a passenger your sled is driven by an experienced musher-guide.
- Adult price (passenger): £155.00 (01 - 20 Dec) or £171.00 (21 Dec - 06 Apr) per person.
- Child price (passenger): £77.00 (01 - 20 Dec) or £86.00 (21 Dec - 06 Apr) per child (12-16 yrs).
Notes:
- The rental of jacket, trousers, boots and gloves are included.
- Approximately 2½ hours are spent onboard the sleds. The duration spent onboard the sled will be determined by weather conditions on the day.
- This tour takes place off-site. The transfer to/from the excursion, by minibus, takes approximately 15 minutes each way. Your transfer may include stops at other hotels.
- Each sled accommodates 2 people and is led by a team of 5-6 dogs. A private sled is pulled by a team of 3-4 dogs.
- A warm drink and snack are included. Please advise any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
- Minimum age: 12 years.
Horse Riding Tours
Moose Safari on Horseback
On the back of an Icelandic horse, you will explore the winter grazing land of the King of the Lappish forest - the moose. Accompanying you on your tour is the mountainous backdrop of the Abisko National Park and the peaks of Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest mountain. Transfers and a traditional lunch at a local farm are included.
- Duration: 6 hours
- Departures: 09:00-15:00 (Daily from 10 Dec to 31 Mar).
- Price: £222.00 per person
Notes:
- Approximately 1½ hours are spent on horseback. The duration spent on horseback will be determined by weather conditions on the day.
- Pick-up from the ICEHOTEL.
- The transfer to/from the excursion, by minibus, takes c. 35 minutes each way.
- This tour is certified by the Swedish Ecotourism Society as Nature’s Best.
- Please advise any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
General Comments:
- The rental of winter overalls, shoes, hat and gloves is included.
- Helmets are provided to all participants.
- No horse-riding experience is required but, participants must be reasonably fit and weigh a maximum of 90kg (14st 2lb).
- The minimum age to ride an Icelandic horse is 12 years old.
Northern Lights Tour on Horseback
You will ride your Icelandic horse out into the winter night in search of the Northern Lights and moose. Transfers and a traditional lunch at a local farm are included.
- Duration: 5 hours
- Departures: Daily at 15:30-20:30 (03 Nov - 05 April) and 17:00-22:00 (01 - 05 April). This excursion is not available on 24 Dec and 31 Dec.
- Price: £222.00 per person
Notes:
- Approximately 1 hour is spent on horseback. The duration spent on horseback will be determined by weather conditions on the day.
- The transfer to/from the excursion, by minibus, takes c. 35 minutes each way.
- This tour is certified by the Swedish Ecotourism Society as Nature’s Best.
- Pick up from the ICEHOTEL.
- Please advise any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
General Comments:
- The rental of winter overalls, shoes, hat and gloves is included.
- Helmets are provided to all participants.
- No horse-riding experience is required but, participants must be reasonably fit and weigh a maximum of 90kg (14.1 stone).
- The minimum age to ride an Icelandic horse is 12 years old.
- Maximum 10 participants.
Sámi Cultural Tours
Raidu – Encounter With The Reindeer
After a short transfer to a reindeer camp you will enjoy a presentation of Sámi culture by your local guide. You will also have the opportunity to feed the reindeer and to take a reindeer sled ride around a small track. Transfers as well as a traditional light lunch are included.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Departures: 14:00-17:00 (Daily from 4 Nov to 13 Apr. No tour on 24 Dec)
- Price: £176.00 per adult / £85.00 per child aged 3 -12 years (04 Nov-30 Nov and 13 Jan-31 Jan and 01 Mar-13 Apr).
- Price: £202.00 per adult / £98.00 per child aged 3-12 years (01 Dec-12 Jan and 01 Feb-29 Feb)
Notes:
- One child is permitted per paying adult.
- This tour is certified by the Swedish Ecotourism Society as Nature’s Best.
- Pick up from the ICEHOTEL. The transfer to the Reindeer camp, by snowmobile pulled sled, takes approximately 15 minutes each way.
- Minimum 2 participants.
- Please advise any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
Gastronomy Tours
Wilderness Dinner – Northern Lights, Stargazing and Delicious Dining
This tour will take you to a wilderness camp in the forests surrounding Jukkasjärvi. A pre-dinner drink is included. A three course evening meal is served in a log-cabin. There is free time during the evening to relax on reindeer skins whilst enjoying the scene in the sky above.
- Duration: 4 hours
- Departures: 19:00-23:00 (Daily from 01 Dec to 13 Apr)
- Price: £246.00 per adult / £123.00 per child
Notes:
- Pick-up from the ICEHOTEL. The transfer to the wilderness camp will take approximately 15 minutes each way, the route of which is determined by the weather conditions and chances for an aurora sighting. If the Aurora is not seen on the outbound transfer, or whilst at the wilderness camp, the tour may be extended slightly, depending on weather conditions, to search for the Aurora on the return to the ICEHOTEL.
- Please advise any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
- Minimum of 2 participants.
- The minimum suggested age is 7 years old.
Ice Sculpting
Ice Sculpting
Imagining what life as an ICEHOTEL ice artist is like? Let yourself be guided into the magical world of ice sculpting with support provided by professional artists.
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Departures: 09:00 - 11:30 daily (01 Nov - 15 Apr)
- Price: £80.00 per person
Notes:
- Minimum age: 13 years.
Skiing Tour
Cross Country Skiing
Strap on your skis and head into the forest with your guide. Cross country skiing is a popular activity in the Arctic regions of Scandinavia and on this tour you will learn the technique of gliding across the frozen landscape. It is a fun albeit energetic activity. Hot drinks and a snack are served along the way.
- Duration: 2¾ hours
- Departures: 09:00 - 12:00 (Daily from 01 Dec - 13 Apr)
- Price: £75.00 per adult / £38.00 per child (6-12 years)
Notes:
- Minimum 2 participants.
- The tour starts at the ICEHOTEL.
- Minimum age: 6 years.
Survival Skills
Wilderness Survival Skills
With an experienced guide you will head into the wilderness. There you will learn how to make a fire with flint, navigate by using signs in the nature, learn how to make a wilderness tea and much more.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Departures: Daily 13:00-16:00 (01 Nov - 15 Apr)
- Price: £120.00 per adult / £60.00 per child (7-12 yrs).
Notes:
- Minimum 2 participants.
- Pick up from the ICEHOTEL
- Minimum age: 7 years.
Sauna
Sauna Ritual
In Swedish Lapland, the sauna is the heart of the home, a place for peacefulness, relaxation and meditation. Gain the skills to sauna like a Scandinavian at ‘Kallebastun’ - Jukkasjarvi's Culture Sauna, the cradle of the Swedish Sauna Academy. You will be taught the ten-step sauna ritual, the culmination of which is an ice plunge in the river.
- Duration: 2½ to 3 hours
- Departures: 17:00-19:30 and 20:00-22:30 (01 Nov- 30 Apr)
- Price: £491.00 per private group 1 - 6 persons
Notes:
- Light snacks and Spa products are included. A robe and slippers are provided for use during the ritual.
- Exclusive access to the sauna.
- Please note that you will not spend the whole three hours in the sauna, the Scandinavian way is to spend short periods in the heat of the sauna, interspersed by cooling down by the fire in the lounge or in the shower, having snacks and just relaxing.
- There is also an option to book only the modern electric sauna.
- This activity is not recommended for guests with a heart condition or pregnant women.
- Please advise any dietary requirements at the time of booking.
Photo Tours
Northern Lights Photography Tour
Join a nightly excursion to hidden places in the wilderness around Jukkasjärvi - away from the intruding electric lights of human civilisation, the conditions for catching the lights are at their best. While you wait for the Aurora to make her appearance on the night sky, your guide will take you through the basics of night time photography and capturing the Northern Lights on camera. A hot drink is included.
- Duration: 4½ hours
- Departures: Daily at 19:00-23:30 (01 Nov - 26 Mar) and 20:00-00:00 (from 27 Mar to 13 Apr). This excursion is not available on 24 Dec and 31 Dec
- Price: £169.00 per adult / £85.00 per child (10-15 years)
Notes:
- Memory cards are not included. Don’t forget to bring a personal SD-card with a minimum 4GB memory (8GB memory cards can be purchased on location).
- Winter overalls, boots, gloves and a hat is included.
- Minimum 2 participants.
- Minimum age: 10 years.
Wildlife and Nature Photo Tour
As the Arctic day breaks, you will be led into the Arctic wilderness by your local guide to shoot winter panoramas and, hopefully, wildlife. You will visit known bird feeding spots and will track the footprints of reindeer, moose, ptarmigan and fox in the hope of capturing these magnificent animals on camera. A hot drink is included.
- Duration: 4 hours
- Departures: 09:00-13:00 (Daily all year).
- Price: £162.00 per adult / £81.00 per child
Notes:
- Memory cards are not included. Don’t forget to bring a personal SD-card with a minimum 4GB memory (8GB memory cards can be purchased on location).
- Pick up from the ICEHOTEL by car.
- Winter overalls, boots, gloves and a hat are included.
- Minimum 2 participants.
- Minimum age: 12 years.
Challenge park
High in the trees, close to the ICEHOTEL, is the Treetop Adventure; six elevated obstacles reaching heights of up to 18 metres above ground and connected by rope bridges and ziplines. Rise to the challenge.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Departures: 13:00 (Sundays) or 17:00 (Tuesdays and Fridays) from 15Apr18-15Nov18
- Price: £75.00 per person
Notes:
- Difficulty: Advanced
- Suitable for children aged 12 years upwards
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Fishing adventure
The Torne River, the source of the ICEHOTEL’s building blocks, is considered one of the best fishing waters in Europe for trout, grayling, whitefish, perch and pike. Enjoy the peace and unspoiled nature of the river valley, and its rich fruits, on this 3 hour experience.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Departures: 09:00 (Tuesdays) or 13:00 (Thursdays) from 15Jun-01Sep18
- Price: £107.00 per adult / £54.00 per child aged 2-12 years old
Note:
Difficulty: Easy
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Ice sculpting
Ever imagined what life as an ICEHOTEL ice artist is like? Let yourself be guided into the magical world of ice sculpting with this introductory lesson assisted by professional artists.
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Departures: Daily at 09:00 (16 Apr - 02 May) and Tuesday, Friday and Sunday at 13:00 (04 May - 30 Oct)
- Price: £80.00 per person
Note:
Suitable for children aged 12 years upwards
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Let’s Go Aptas
Along with a local guide, you will hike to the summit of the Aptas Mountains. The view at the top, over the Virgin Taiga Forest, speaks for itself. A fika (coffee and cake) is included.
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Departures: 09:00 (Thursdays) or 13:00 (Mondays) from 01Jun-15Nov18
- Price: £75.00 per adult / £38.00 per child aged 2-12 years old
Note:
Difficulty: Moderate
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Midnight Sun
The Midnight Sun shines continuously above Jukkasjarvi for 100 days and nights. Yet from the end of May until the end of July, the sun only sets below the horizon for a short time, and daylight barely dims.
On this 3 hour tour, you will visit the nearby city of Kiruna and learn about life in the land of the Midnight Sun. Kiruna is a city in transition and is slowly being moved to a new location to allow for the expansion of its iron ore mine. Your tour will finish at the summit of Mount Luossavaara where, from your elevated position, you can watch the arch of the sun moving across the sky.
The Midnight Sun is guaranteed to stir emotions in all visitors.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Departures: 22:00 from 26May-20Jul18 (Tuesdays and Fridays)
- Price: £96.00 per adult / £48.00 per child aged 2-12 years old
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Northern Lights safari
Many people associate the dazzling displays of the Aurora Borealis with the winter months. It is however, possible to witness this magical phenomenon from the end of August. In fact, in our opinion, the colours of fall and autumnal foliage coupled with dark nights and the Northern Lights is a combination that is hard to beat.
On this 3 hour tour, along with a local guide, you will travel away from the artificial lights of Jukkasjarvi to a wilderness camp. Here you will learn truth and myths about the Northern Lights and enjoy a Swedish fika.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Departures: 22:00 from 20Aug-15Dec18 (Daily)
- Price: £107.00 per adult / £54.00 per child aged 2-12 years old.
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Sauna Ritual
In Swedish Lapland, the sauna is the heart of the home, a place for peacefulness, relaxation and meditation. Gain the skills to sauna like a Scandinavian at ‘Kallebastun’ - Jukkasjarvi's Culture Sauna, the cradle of the Swedish Sauna Academy.
- Duration: 2½ hours
- Departures: 17:00-19:30 and 20:00-22:30 (15Apr-31Oct18)
- Price: £542.00 per private group 1 - 6 persons
Notes:
- Light snacks and Spa products are included. A robe and slippers are provided for use during the ritual.
- Exclusive access to the sauna.
- Please note that you will not spend the whole two hours in the sauna, the Scandinavian way is to spend short periods in the heat of the sauna, interspersed by cooling down by the fire in the lounge or in the shower, having snacks and just relaxing.
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Torne River rafting
The Torne River for centuries was the lifeline for Swedish Lapland transporting goods and people across the region. On this 6 hour tour, you will travel along the flowing river on a rafting experience. Calm and white-water will be crossed. Lunch and all equipment are provided.
- Duration: 6 hours
- Departures: 10:00 from 15Jun-30Sep18 (Wednesdays and Saturdays)
- Price: £149.00 per adult
Note:
- Suitable for children aged 12 years upwards.
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Wilderness dinner
Enjoy a delicious three course evening meal at the ICEHOTEL’s wilderness camp. No matter the time of year of your visit, this is a delightful experience which will allow you to immerse yourself in the pristine natural beauty of Swedish Lapland, albeit for a short time.
From the end of May until the end of July, you can experience 100 days of daylight. From the end of August, there is the chance to see the Northern Lights dancing overhead.
- Duration: 4 hours
- Departures: 19:00 from 11Apr-31Oct (Thursdays and Sundays)
- Price: £268.00 per adult / £101.00 per child aged 7-12 years old
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Wilderness skills
Have you ever wished that you could light a fire using a flint, boil water over a natural flame and learn other bushcraft skills? How about being able to identify animal tracks? If yes, then this 3 hour experience is for you.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Departures: 09:00 (Mondays) or 13:00 (Fridays) from 15Apr-31Oct
- Price: £129.00 per adult / £65.00 per child (7-11 years)
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Wildlife and Nature Photo Tour
As the day breaks, you will be led into the wilderness by your local guide to shoot panoramas and, hopefully, wildlife. You will visit known bird feeding spots and will track the footprints of reindeer, moose, ptarmigan and fox in the hope of capturing these magnificent animals on camera. A hot drink is included.
- Duration: 4 hours
- Departures: Daily at 08:30
- Price: £184.00 per person
Notes:
- Memory cards are not included. Don’t forget to bring a personal SD-card with a minimum 8GB memory (8GB memory cards can be purchased on location).
- Pick up from the ICEHOTEL by car.
- Minimum 2 participants.
- Minimum age: 12 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do they build the ICEHOTEL? When the ice on the Torne River is frozen solid and at its thickest, it is harvested by the engineers at the ICEHOTEL and stored until the following November when it is used as a building and artistic material. Thousands of tons of pure, crystal clear ice are harvested each year. In addition to the tonnes of harvested ice, the engineers create a building material called ‘snice’, a mixture of snow and ice. This material is used to create the shape and structure of the ICEHOTEL and is left to set on giant vaulted moulds until solid. Once set the moulds are removed.
A mixture of snow and ice is then used to create the bed frames, bedroom furniture, ICEBAR by ICEHOTEL, the Ice Chapel and the accompanying sculptures. The aim is to use only snow and ice in the building of the hotel.
Since 2016 the ICEHOTEL has offered a 365 day concept, a permanent hotel structure offering guests the chance to experience a night on ice year-round.
How do I reach the ICEHOTEL? The closest airport to the ICEHOTEL is located 15km away on the outskirts of the town of Kiruna. Flights from London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Manchester operate via Stockholm on a daily basis. It is also possible to reach the ICEHOTEL by taking the train to Kiruna (connections from Stockholm, Lulea, Bjorkliden and Narvik to name a few).
How am I transferred from the airport/train station to the ICEHOTEL? A private transfer is included for all Sunvil guests. We can also offer transfers by dog sled or snowmobile, for those guests wishing for an exhilarating start to their holiday.
What is the temperature inside the ICEHOTEL? The temperature inside the ICEHOTEL is maintained between -5°C and -7°C. Due to the structure of the building, this temperature does not fall even when the conditions outside are much cooler.
What will my room be like? There are four categories of room; Ice room, Art Suites, Art Suites (ICEHOTEL 365) and Deluxe suites (ICEHOTEL 365). Whilst the ice rooms are simply styled, the Suites are ornate and individually designed and sculpted. Within each room is a bed frame made from ice and topped with a mattress and reindeer skins for insulation. The door to the room is a curtain (except in the ICEHOTEL 365 building where there is a door).
How many people can sleep in my room? Within the cold rooms there is only ever one bed constructed. These beds vary in size but whether one guest is sleeping in the room or four guests, it is one bed and one mattress that is shared. Most rooms can accommodate two people. Some rooms will sleep a maximum of three people and some snow rooms will accommodate up to four guests.
Because the rooms do not have doors, will I hear noise from other guests? Rarely. From our experience the only noise you might hear is from guests walking to/from their rooms and chatting in the corridor. The walls of the ICEHOTEL are over a metre thick and block any other sound.
How many nights should I sleep in the ICEHOTEL? We would recommend that you only spend 1-night sleeping within the ICEHOTEL structure. Most guests will then combine this overnight experience with two or three nights in a warm room or with a stay at a nearby resort (Kiruna, Björkliden, the Treehotel and Luleå to name a few of the options available).
Where are the toilets and where do I leave my luggage? Adjacent to the ICEHOTEL is a warm reception with changing rooms, toilets, showers, lockers and sauna facilities. It is a walk of 1-2 minutes from the reception to your room.
How old do you have to be to sleep in the ICEHOTEL? Whilst the ICEHOTEL does not have a minimum age restriction. We would not recommend this experience to children under 6yrs old.
Do I have to sleep in the ICEHOTEL? Of course not! The ICEHOTEL offers a range of warm hotel bedrooms too, a stone’s throw from the cold structure.
If I do not choose to sleep in the ICEHOTEL will I still be able to see the rooms? Yes, the ICEHOTEL is an art exhibition during the day from 10am until 6pm. Guests staying only in warm accommodation will be able to visit the cold accommodation, free of charge, during this time. Guests staying in cold accommodation are permitted access to their room after 6pm.
Can I book warm accommodation for the duration of my stay but also book 1 night in cold accommodation just incase it is too cold? Although the temperature inside the cold accommodation will be warmer than outside, here at Sunvil we understand the uncertainty that some may feel at spending a whole night in a temperature between -5°C and -7°C - if preferred it would be possible to book warm accommodation and cold accommodation for the same night.
What time can I check in to my room and what time do I need to check out? Warm Accommodation: Check-in time is 3pm. Check-out time is 11am. Cold Accommodation: Room access from 6pm. Check-out time is 11am.
What other facilities are there at the ICEHOTEL? In addition to the ICEHOTEL and warm reception, there is also the ICEBAR by ICEHOTEL, an Ice Church, a shop, warm hotel rooms and chalets, a warm bar (serving snacks and drinks) and a restaurant. There is another restaurant c.10-15 minutes away.
Does the ICEHOTEL provide winter clothing? Yes. Upon check-in all guests are provided with snow boots, a thick thermal overall, mittens, a balaclava and a hat. This is for your use throughout the whole of your stay.
Will I be able to see the Northern Lights from the ICEHOTEL? The ICEHOTEL is located within the town of Jukkasjarvi, approximately 200km north of the Arctic Circle. As long as the Northern Lights are putting on a good display and weather conditions are clear it would be possible to get a sighting from the grounds surrounding the ICEHOTEL.
Will the ICEHOTEL wake me up in the middle of the night if the northern lights are showing? Unfortunately there is no northern lights wake up call in place at the ICEHOTEL. Can I book excursions locally or should I book them in advance? There is a dedicated activity/excursion desk in the main reception of the ICEHOTEL and here you will be able to book excursions locally, however these will be subject to availability. To avoid disappointment locally we would recommend booking in advance.
Can I use my credit card at the ICEHOTEL? Both VISA and MasterCard are accepted by the hotel.
How do I sleep in sub-zero conditions? Staying at the ICEHOTEL is an experience and whilst some guests will find that they have had a full night’s sleep, others will find that – although relaxed - the excitement and cool temperatures disturbed their rest. Every evening the ICEHOTEL runs a short course for guests undertaking a night in below zero conditions. The course covers everything from what to wear and how to use your sleeping bag to what to take into the room. In the morning, you are awakened (at your specified time) by a member of staff and offered a warming lingonberry juice. Then head to the sauna before enjoying breakfast at the ICEHOTEL restaurant.
What equipment does the ICEHOTEL provide? Each guests is provided with a thermal sleeping bag – designed to withstand such cold temperatures, a sleeping bag liner and a pillow. What do I wear to sleep in?Less is more as the sleeping bag uses the heat generated from your body to warm you, and keep you warm. When you wear layers, your body heat will not reach the sleeping bag and therefore cannot be used. It is recommended that you wear thermal base layers (long johns and a long sleeve top), woollen socks and a hat. Some guests will also choose to wear a snood (neck scarf) and/or gloves.
Useful information
Best time to go
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- JUL
- AUG
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- NOV
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Average temperature
Average rainfall
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Gallery
ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland
ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland
ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland
A Rich Seam (Howard Miller & Hugh Miller), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
Cumulus (Annakatrin Kaus & Hans Aescht), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
Daily Travellers (Alem Teklu & Anna Karin Krogevoll), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
Follow the White Rabbit (AnnaSofia Mååg & Niklas Byman), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
Ground Rules (Carl Wellander & Ulrika Tallving), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
Hang in There (Marjolein Vonk & Maurizio Perron), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
King Kong (Lkhagvadorj Dorjsuren), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
Last Fabergé Egg (Tomasz Czajkowski & Eryk Marks), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
Livoq (Fabien Champeval & Friederike Schroth), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
Monstera (Nina Kauppi & Johan Kauppi), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
Queen of the North (Emilie Steele & Sebastian Dell’Uva), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
Radiance (Natsuki Saito & Shingo Saito), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
Space Room (Adrian Bois & Pablo Lopez), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
Wandering Cloud (Lisa Lindqvist), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
White Desert (Timsam Harding & Fabián Jacquet Casado), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
34 Metres (Luca Roncoroni & Dave Ruane), Deluxe Suite, ICEHOTEL365, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
The Invisibe Invincible (Nina Hedman & Lena Kriström), Deluxe Suite, ICEHOTEL365, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
Danger Thin Ice (Franziska Agrawal), Art Suite, ICEHOTEL365, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland (Photo - Asaf Kilger)
ICEBAR, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland
Ice Church, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland
Warm Accommodation, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland
Summer, ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland
ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland
ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland
ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi, Swedish Lapland
