Ice Ice Baby. That was the song that played in my head as we approached North America’s only ice hotel. If you’re looking for a truly unique travel memory, you’ll want to add Hôtel de Glace to your bucket list. Not only is the entire hotel made from snow and ice, but it looks completely different every year. Yup, the architectural marvel is re-imagined and built from the ground up each winter. It’s a place I’ve been fortunate enough to visit and one I’ll never forget…
Located about 30 minutes outside of Quebec City, Hôtel de Glace in Valcartier Vacation Village is jaw-dropping. I remember walking through the space in absolute awe of all the details — from the chapel (such a unique place to get married!) and bars, to the indoor slide and intricate chandelier. I couldn’t believe that it was ALL made of ice and snow. Back when I visited in 2017, they used 30,000 tons of snow and 600 tons of ice to build 44 different rooms and suites. But I’ve been told the hotel is bigger and better than ever this year!! Featuring their largest bar and lobby to date, it now covers over 42, 000 square feet (that’s 40% more surface area than last year).
Hôtel De Glace Themes
You could literally visit Hôtel de Glace every single year and have a completely different experience each time. That’s because the theme ALWAYS changes (it was Northern Perspectives back in 2017 when I visited)…
This year, Artistic director Pierre L’Heureux dreamt up the unique concept of Hotel Gardens. From snow gardens to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the entire space is inspired by nature and landscape art. Brought to life by 50 artists and sculptors who shape the snow and ice for more than a month, Hôtel de Glace is truly magical.
Spending The Night In An Ice Hotel
Most people I chatted with said they experienced the most peaceful sleep they’ve ever had at Hôtel de Glace. This is partly due to how quiet and dark the hotel is at night as well as the colder temps (think: bear in hibernation)! The rooms average around -3°C to -5°C and sleeping bags are intended for temps between -15°C and -30°C so you’re certainly well-insulated. There are some important tips shared via information sessions when you first arrive so be sure to attend those. Staff will run through how you should dress (three layers) and prep for conditions so you can have a pleasant and memorable stay.
Saunas And Hot Tubs At Hôtel De Glace
As a guest of the hotel, you’ll have all-night access to saunas and hot tubs so you can increase your body temperature before sliding into the arctic sleeping bags at night. Some suites also come with their own hot tub/sauna and fireplace so make sure to read the descriptions when booking!
What If I Get Too Cold At Hôtel De Glace?
Don’t worry my friends, they’ve thought of that! Every guest at Hôtel de Glace ALSO gets a regular hotel room at Valcartier Hotel next door. This is where you’ll want to store your electronics (so they don’t die in the cold). You can also take a hot shower, unpack your suitcase, use the washroom and even sleep in the room if you decide it’s too cold for you at the ice hotel.
The Bars At Hôtel De Glace
Who doesn’t want to party at a bar completely made of ice? Day or night, you’ll find visitors sipping on clever cocktails (served in glasses made entirely of ice), gathered around the fireplace or dancing up a storm…
During our visit the main bar turned into quite a party at night. The vibe was amazing! Just remember: if you drink too much liquid, you’ll need to bust out of that cozy sleeping bag at night to go to the washroom so I recommend keeping it to a drink/two.
Hôtel De Glace Nightly Rates
Packages start at $349 per night for a simple room (note: these are not themed, but do include many perks like the welcome cocktail, access to the hot tubs & sauna and a warm room at Hôtel Valcartier) and can cost over $700 for premium suites which are the largest, are themed and have a fireplace (along with other luxe details). Click here to see availability, specific package details and rates.
Each year, approximately 4,000 people spend the night at Hôtel de Glace. It’s a popular spot so reservations are a must given there are only 42 rooms and suites this year!
Day And Evening Pass Tickets For Hôtel De Glace
Many people don’t know this, but you don’t have to spend the night to enjoy this incredible hotel. Day passes can be purchased so you can tour the hotel (with our without a guide)! This year the rate is $20.99 for a day pass ticket and $15.99 for an evening pass. I recommend a day pass because it will grant you access to the rooms and suites as well. Click here for more details about the special passes.
Activities At The Ice Hotel In Quebec
Located on the Valcartier Vacation Village site for the third year, Hôtel de Glace welcomes nearly 100,000 visitors each year during the three months that it is open (Jan-March). So, what do all of these people do beyond hotel tours/overnight stays? To my surprise, Valcartier Vacation Village offers many other experiences onsite — from the balmy Bora Parc to Winter Playground (the largest winter playground in North America). You’d be remiss not to take advantage of all the fun activities. I personally loved the tub park…
Hope you guys found this little guide/recap helpful as you plan your visit to Hôtel de Glace. Is it cold? YES. Is it a once-in-a-lifetime experience? YES. Will I ever go back?? Absolument! It’s a travel memory I will never forget.
Left to right: Carolann and Macrae, moi and Lauren and Justin.
MERCI to Québec City Tourism for hosting me on this press trip. As always, all opinions and reviews are my own. Check out my guide to Quebec Winter Carnaval if you’re planning on doing both at the same time!
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