Imagine spending the night in a space crafted entirely from ice, surrounded by frozen artistry, or watching the aurora borealis dance across the sky through the clear ceiling of a glass-roofed igloo. In the far north, where adventure and creativity merge, your overnight stay becomes an unforgettable experience. These unique accommodations go far beyond standard hotel rooms, offering a perfect blend of comfort, imaginative design, and breathtaking views of the Arctic’s spectacular landscapes. After a day of exploring the snowy wilderness, you’ll return to warmth, wonder, and a sense of magic. Discover some of the most extraordinary places to stay and let us help you plan your perfect Arctic retreat.

Ice and Snow Hotels: A Frozen Fairytale

Spending the night in a hotel crafted from ice and snow is a true bucket-list adventure. Every year, these remarkable creations are rebuilt from the ground up, with artists designing fresh sculptures, suites, and themes. They exist for just a short season, melting away with the arrival of spring, making every stay a once-in-a-lifetime occasion.

  • How It Works: No need to worry about the cold here! Each bed is crafted from ice, topped with thick reindeer hides and a special thermal sleeping bag designed for high-latitude nights. Inside temperatures stay steady, between -1°C and -7°C (30°F to 19°F), much cozier than braving it outside. Shared spaces like dining areas and bathrooms are usually in nearby heated buildings for your comfort.

ICEHOTEL, Sweden

Set in the charming village of Jukkasjärvi, the pioneering ICEHOTEL has welcomed guests since 1989. It promises a spectacular and memorable stay.

  • What Makes It Special: Each winter, global artists come together to design fresh "Art Suites." Your room doubles as a creative masterpiece. Each stay is truly unique.
  • Things to Do: Enjoy a cocktail served in a glass made of ice at the ICEBAR, try your hand at ice sculpting, or set out on an aurora tour. The property also features ICEHOTEL 365, a permanent space cooled by solar power during warmer months.

Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, Norway

Near Alta, Norway, the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel holds the title of the northernmost accommodation of its kind. Guests are welcomed by a peaceful setting and striking ice artistry at every turn.

  • What Makes It Special: Each year brings a fresh theme, showcased in finely detailed ice carvings found throughout the private suites and gathering areas.
  • Things to Do: Sip a drink from a chilled glass at the ice bar, unwind in outdoor hot tubs, or hop on a snowmobile adventure through the beautiful countryside.

Glass Igloos and Domes: Your Private Aurora Theater

For many travelers, the ultimate northern experience is gazing at the aurora from the comfort of a warm, inviting bed. Glass-roofed retreats bring this vision to life, providing sweeping views of the night sky while you stay protected from the freezing weather.

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finland

This iconic destination in Finnish Lapland introduced many travelers to the charm of glass igloos. With its enchanting winter scenery, the resort is an ideal place to enjoy mesmerizing nights under the aurora.

  • What Makes It Special: The two- and four-person domes are designed to maximize views of the night sky. Thanks to specially treated thermal glass, you get clear, uninterrupted scenery even during the chilliest nights.
  • Things to Do: Choose from a wide selection of seasonal experiences such as sleigh rides, snowmobiling, fishing on frozen lakes, and husky adventures. You can also unwind in a classic Finnish smoke sauna.

Levin Iglut, Finland

Perched on a fellside in Levi, Finland, Levin Iglut features elegant glass igloos with sweeping views over the valley.

  • What Makes It Special: These domes offer panoramic scenery with comfort in mind, featuring heated, fog-free glass, adjustable beds, and kitchenettes. The remote location, away from artificial lights, is ideal for enjoying the aurora.
  • Things to Do: Savor a meal at Restaurant Utsu, or take advantage of the nearby Levi Ski Resort for activities like downhill skiing and winter fun.

Wilderness Lodges: Cozy Comfort in the Wild

For those seeking a classic yet memorable escape, remote wilderness lodges provide a warm and inviting stay far from the bustle. Nestled in areas perfect for wildlife encounters and breathtaking aurora displays, these retreats offer a genuine taste of northern living in quiet comfort.

Sheldon Chalet, Alaska, USA

For the ultimate in high-end adventure, Sheldon Chalet is a one-of-a-kind lodge set atop a nunatak (a rocky outcrop) in the heart of a glacier amphitheater within Denali National Park.

  • What Makes It Special: This secluded retreat stands out as one of the world’s most exclusive mountain lodges. Reachable only by helicopter, it delivers breathtaking panoramic views of Denali’s mountain landscape and glaciers.
  • Things to Do: Your stay includes guided adventures like exploring glaciers, snowshoe excursions, and amazing opportunities for stargazing and watching the northern lights.

Blachford Lake Lodge, Northwest Territories, Canada

Set deep in the Canadian wilderness and reachable only by ski-plane, Blachford Lake Lodge is a renowned eco-retreat famous for its spectacular night skies. This destination is beloved by travelers hoping to witness the aurora in an unspoiled setting.

  • What Makes It Special: Located directly under the auroral oval, this cozy lodge offers some of the most reliable views of the northern lights anywhere. Enjoy the show from outdoor hot tubs or take in the sky from a 360-degree dome.
  • Things to Do: Explore the landscape with cross-country skis, go snowshoeing, try your hand at ice fishing, or even learn basic igloo-building. Blachford Lake Lodge is known for its off-grid sustainability and warm atmosphere.

Modern Domes and Bubbles: A New Way to Connect with Nature

A new wave of stays is combining creative architecture with close-to-nature experiences, inviting you to connect with the outdoors in original, comfortable ways.

Buubble Hotel, Iceland

Known as the "5 Million Star Hotel," Buubble Hotel in Iceland features transparent, bubble-shaped rooms where you can drift off beneath the stars and the glow of the northern lights.

  • What Makes It Special: The transparent bubbles offer an uninterrupted view of your surroundings. You'll get the feeling of sleeping right out in nature, but with the warmth of a heated room and a cozy bed.
  • Things to Do: These bubbles are part of guided adventures that include visits to Iceland's well-known Golden Circle or South Coast, so you can enjoy sightseeing along with a memorable night’s rest.

Selecting an unusual place to stay in the Arctic turns your travels into something extraordinary. Imagine drifting off in a room made entirely of ice, watching northern lights flicker above you, or waking up surrounded by untouched scenery. These fantastic lodging options show you can enjoy comfort and excitement at the same time. No matter if you dream of something whimsical, upscale, or simply snug, you’ll find an inspiring place to start your next northern adventure. Take the leap and let your trip be filled with moments you’ll never forget.