The aurora borealis, better known as the northern lights, is nature’s own firework show. Breathtaking to behold, it is only visible in the extreme northern hemisphere. To see this spectacular light show in all its glory, ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden offers the largest hotel constructed exclusively out of ice and snow in the world. Also the world’s first hotel of this nature, it is born out of the Torne River and lives for five months each year as the epitome of natural wonder and fantastical lodging. A combination of beautiful art and practicality, ICEHOTEL offers travelers a truly unique experience in fine living.
From weddings, to first class performance art, and winter adventures, ICEHOTEL has a world of exciting activity at your fingertips. Although upscale warm rooms are available; the draw of this exclusive destination is a night in one of their distinctively designed ice and snow rooms. By mixing a few nights of toasty accommodations with one night in an ephemeral wonderland you can truly capture all of the amazement that brought together artists and architects over twenty years ago. It’s incredible that in 23° F you can still sleep warm and cozy. Providing boarders with thermal sleeping bags, specially made beds built of snow and ice, and a reindeer skin “mattress” ICEHOTEL makes sure your stay is both exotic and comfortable. Wake up to cup of hot lingonberry juice and step into the morning sauna for a refreshing treat.
After a day chock full of activities, dinner is waiting for you at one of two fantastic restaurants. The ICEHOTEL Restaurant features loads of fresh local ingredients with a Scandinavian vibe and is housed within the actual ICEHOTEL itself. Balmier conditions prevail at The Old Homestead Restaurant. A rustic log cabin built in 1768; The Old Homestead provides charm and a delicious meal all by the warmth of a wood burning fireplace. Prices depend on days and room type and vary between about $200.00 to $1,000.00 a night. But when you consider the ABSOLUT ICEBAR with glasses hewn out of river ice, the magical artistry of the building, and views of the stunning northern lights the experience is well worth every penny!
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