Review of the Icehotel in Sweden

Swept in the shimmering embrace of the arctic circle, the Icehotel in Sweden stands as a tribute to both nature’s splendors and human ingenuity. The allure of sleeping in a room carved from ice and snow, under the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights, is an experience that the Icehotel promises and delivers with unparalleled finesse. This article embarks on a journey, uncovering the layers of this icy wonder.

Hotel History

Nestled in the village of Jukkasjärvi, approximately 200 km north of the Arctic Circle, the story of Icehotel began in the late 1980s. The original idea wasn’t even a hotel. It was a cold storage turned art gallery showcasing local artists during winter. However, the birth of the Icehotel as we know it today was somewhat serendipitous. One year, visitors who had traveled to see the art found themselves without accommodation and chose to sleep inside the gallery, wrapped in sleeping bags on top of reindeer skins. Thus, the world’s first Icehotel was inadvertently founded in 1989.

Preparation for Construction of Icehotel

The magic of Icehotel’s rebirth every winter is a meticulous and calculated process. It all begins with “snice”, a blend of snow and ice, sourced from the pristine Torne River. As winter begins, nearly 2,500 tons of ice is harvested and stored. The stored ice is used not just for the next winter’s hotel but also for the Icebar and other internal structures. By November, construction is in full swing. Under the hands of skilled builders, architects, and designers, these blocks transform into the ephemeral marvel that is the Icehotel.

Decoration of Icehotel Ice Rooms

Each suite in the Icehotel is a unique masterpiece, curated and carved by international artists selected from hundreds of submissions. From room to room, guests can expect to be captivated by different themes, sometimes dreamy and abstract, other times lifelike, reflecting the flora and fauna of the Arctic. The furniture, including the bedframes, is made entirely out of ice. Luxurious thermal sleeping bags atop reindeer hides ensure a cozy sleep, even as indoor temperatures hover around a frosty -5°C to -8°C.

What to Do While Visiting the Icehotel

Staying in an ice room is just the tip of the iceberg. The Icehotel offers a plethora of arctic experiences:

1. Witness the Northern Lights: A spectacle that’s on countless bucket lists, the hotel offers guided tours away from ambient light to offer the best chance of witnessing this natural wonder.
2. Dog Sledding: Traverse the snow-blanketed landscapes led by a team of enthusiastic huskies.
3. Ice Sculpting Classes: Guests can try their hand at sculpting blocks of ice under expert guidance.
4. Snowmobile Safaris: For those seeking a bit of adrenaline, these safaris promise an exciting ride across frozen lakes and through forests.
5. Ice Dining: The hotel offers a memorable culinary experience, with meals served on ice plates and drinks poured into glasses made entirely out of ice.

Conclusion

The Icehotel is not just a place to stay; it’s an experience that enchants, mesmerizes, and stays with you long after you’ve left its icy embrace. It serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of beauty and the importance of seizing the moment. As each rendition of the hotel melts away with the advent of spring, it leaves behind memories, stories, and the anticipation of what the next winter will bring.