Hôtel de Glace: Behind The Ice Curtain

Hôtel de Glace isn’t just a hotel—it’s a temporary masterpiece that rises from snow every winter like a frozen phoenix. Nestled just outside Quebec City, this hotel made entirely of ice and snow is the only one of its kind in North America. Staying overnight isn’t just a quirky bucket-list item—it’s a full-blown experience that blurs the line between survival and luxury.

Behind the scenes, it all starts in December. Armed with snow-makers, chainsaws, and an eye for art, a crew of 50+ artisans, architects, and engineers transform 30,000 tons of snow and 500 tons of ice into a surreal, sculpted wonderland. Every year features a new theme—past years have explored mythology, nature, and outer space—making the hotel a living (well, slowly melting) gallery.

When guests arrive, they check in at the adjacent warm pavilion, a crucial part of the experience. It’s where your bags stay (because luggage and -5°C don’t mix), and where you’ll return in the morning, victorious and frost-kissed.

Before your icy bedtime, you’re guided through an orientation session—half survival briefing, half pep talk. Pro tips? Avoid cotton (it traps moisture), sleep in dry thermal base layers, and whatever you do, don’t let cold air in the sleeping bag. It’s part science, part ritual.

The hotel itself is stunning. Every corridor glows with LED lights, illuminating intricate carvings and frozen art installations. Each themed suite is unique, hand-carved with snow reliefs and ice sculptures. The beds—yes, also made of ice—come equipped with a wooden platform, thermal mattress, and a sub-zero sleeping bag. Think Arctic expedition meets fairytale.

Not ready to tuck in yet? Head to the Ice Bar, where you’ll sip cocktails from glasses made of ice. Then soak in the outdoor hot tubs while snowflakes fall and your hair literally freezes—seriously, it’s a thing.

Then comes the big moment: bedtime. You shimmy into your sleeping bag like a burrito, marveling at the silence. There’s no hum of machines or distant traffic—just cold serenity. Sleep doesn’t come easy for everyone, but waking up in a glowing ice room with your breath visible in the air? Pure magic.

In the morning, you’re greeted with hot drinks and the warm feeling of accomplishment. The hotel might melt away in spring, but your story won’t.

Insider tip: If you’re nervous about the cold, book a room at the nearby Hotel Valcartier for a backup plan—you’ll still enjoy all the icy amenities.

Hôtel de Glace is not just a stay—it’s a brief plunge into a frozen fantasy, handcrafted by the unsung heroes who chisel, saw, and sculpt winter into something unforgettable.