While many are desperate to escape the chilly UK weather for warmer climes, others want to dive into snowy landscapes further afield.
And what better way to take in these winter wonderlands than by staying right in the middle of the action – AKA, in an ice hotel.
There are some incredible offerings around the world, from igloos to castles – many decked out with impressive ice sculptures, art, frozen furniture and more.
Many of these venues are rebuilt every year, using ice blocks sourced from lakes and rivers in their local areas.
Here are some of the best from around the world – just remember to bring plenty of layers.
Hotel de Glâce, Canada
The Hotel de Glâce is the only ice hotel in North America and it opens every winter from January to March. Made entirely of snow and ice, it really is something to behold – and boasts a Grand Hall, chapel, ice slide, rooms and suites.
The resort changes its structure each year, but consistently offers 21 rooms and themed suites that each come with arctic sleeping bags.
valcartier.com/fr/hebergement/hotel-de-glace/
Hotel of Ice, Romania
This ice hotel in Romania, in the heart of the Fagaras Mountains, is built yearly entirely out of snow and ice blocks extracted from a nearby glacial lake. And every year the hotel has a new theme.
Guests can sleep in double room or igloos – all equipped with animal furs and thermal bedding to keep everyone toasty.
hotelofice.ro/en/
SnowCastle Resort, Finland
Snowcastle is built annually from snow and ice in Kemi, Finland, and boasts amazing frozen art and a tube slide, from January to April.
Guests can also choose a winter stay at the Seaside Glass Villas, all of which have a glass roof – ideal for viewing the northern lights. A good option for those who want to experience an ice hotel – but stay warm at night.
experience365.fi/snowcastle
Icehotel, Sweden
When the waters of the Torne River freeze every year, huge ice blacks are harvested and used to make this Swedish landmark.
As well as 15-20 standard ice rooms (that come with a bed made from ice), Icehotel in Sweden also houses 12 art suites uniquely designed and hand-carved every year.
For those wanting to tie the knot at this incredible spot, there’s even a breathtaking ice ceremony hall located within the hotel – perfect for the ultimate winter wedding.
icehotel.com
Iglu Village, Kuhtai, Austria
This igloo village offers snow rooms with LED lights and beds that come with sheepskins and a winter sleeping bag.
There’s even an ice bar that serves drinks in iced glasses – for the full-on frozen experience.
iglu-village.at/en/
Snowhotel Kirkenes, Norway
This ice hotel in Norway not only prides itself on its beautiful set-up, but also the incredible activities – including access to a reindeer, huskies and puppy farm, as well as bikes available to borrow and a sauna.
Each ice hotel room provides a comfortable mattress with thermal insulation surrounded by ice blocks – as if you’re sleeping on it.
snowhotelkirkenes.com
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