Embracing the Charm of Swedish Hospitality
Embarking on a journey to Sweden is not just about exploring its stunning landscapes or delving into its rich culture; it’s also about experiencing unique and unforgettable accommodations that add an extra layer of magic to your stay. From ice hotels to treehouses, Sweden offers a plethora of one-of-a-kind lodging options that promise to make your stay truly memorable. Join me as I uncover some of the most enchanting and distinctive hotels Sweden has to offer.
ICEHOTEL – Jukkasjärvi
Description
Nestled in the picturesque village of Jukkasjärvi, the ICEHOTEL is a marvel of icy architecture, sculpted entirely from snow and ice. Each year, artists from around the globe come together to craft unique suites and sculptures, creating an ephemeral masterpiece that must be seen to be believed.
Surrounding Environment
The ICEHOTEL is surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Swedish Lapland. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, frozen rivers, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights, adding an extra layer of magic to their stay.
Services and Facilities
The hotel offers a range of services including guided tours, ice sculpting workshops, and dog sledding excursions.
Guests can enjoy dining at the ICEHOTEL Restaurant, serving up delicious Nordic cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.
The ICEHOTEL also features a bar where guests can enjoy cocktails served in glasses made entirely of ice.
Accommodation Options
Guests can choose from a variety of accommodation options including warm rooms and ice rooms. Ice rooms are kept at a constant temperature of -5°C to -8°C and are furnished with thermal sleeping bags and reindeer furs for added warmth and comfort.
Rates and Special Offers
Room rates at the ICEHOTEL vary depending on the type of accommodation and time of year. Ice room rates start at around $300 per night.The hotel often offers special packages and discounts, including Northern Lights packages and honeymoon packages.
Recommendation Index
The ICEHOTEL is highly recommended for adventurous travelers looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Sweden. From its stunning architecture to its range of activities and amenities, the hotel offers something for everyone.
Personal Experience
Stepping into the ICEHOTEL felt like stepping into a fairy tale. The air was crisp and cool, and the shimmering ice sculptures cast an ethereal glow throughout the hotel. Exploring the maze-like corridors and intricately sculpted chambers was a truly awe-inspiring experience. Spending a night in one of the ice rooms was otherworldly, and being wrapped in thermal sleeping bags and reindeer furs made for a surprisingly cozy night’s sleep.
Getting There
From Kiruna Airport: The ICEHOTEL is located approximately 17 kilometers from Kiruna Airport. Guests can arrange for airport transfers through the hotel or take a taxi.
From Kiruna Train Station: The hotel is approximately 20 kilometers from Kiruna Train Station. Taxis are available at the station, or guests can arrange for a transfer through the hotel.
Booking Platform
Guests can book their stay at the ICEHOTEL directly through the hotel’s website or through various online booking platforms such as Booking.com or Expedia. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Treehotel – Harads
Location: Edeforsvägen 2 A, 960 24 Harads, Sweden
Opening Hours: Open year-round
Description: Nestled in the pristine forests of northern Sweden, the Treehotel offers guests the opportunity to stay in stunningly designed treehouses suspended high above the forest floor. From mirrored cubes to UFO-inspired pods, each treehouse is a work of art, seamlessly blending with the surrounding natural landscape.
Personal Experience
Upon arrival at the Treehotel, the tranquility of the forest enveloped me like a comforting embrace. The air was crisp and fragrant with the scent of pine, while the gentle rustle of leaves and the occasional chirping of birds provided a soothing soundtrack to my journey. Walking along the suspended walkways that connected the various treehouses, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation building with each step. The towering trees swayed gently in the breeze, their branches reaching out like welcoming arms to guide me towards my treetop sanctuary.
Entering the treehouse, I was immediately struck by its cozy interior and rustic charm. The walls were adorned with natural wood paneling, while large windows framed panoramic views of the surrounding forest canopy. A comfortable bed nestled in one corner invited me to relax and unwind, while a small seating area provided the perfect spot to sit and soak in the serene beauty of my surroundings.
As night fell, I drifted off to sleep to the gentle rustle of leaves and the soft whisper of the wind. Wrapped in a cocoon of warmth and comfort, I felt a deep sense of peace wash over me, as if the stress and worries of the outside world had melted away. Waking up to the soft glow of dawn filtering through the trees, I felt a renewed sense of energy and vitality coursing through my veins. Stepping out onto the treehouse’s balcony, I was greeted by the sight of the forest coming to life, bathed in the golden light of the morning sun.
In that moment, I realized the true magic of the Treehotel. It wasn’t just a place to rest my head at night; it was a sanctuary for the soul, a chance to reconnect with nature and escape the pressures of modern life. Surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of the forest, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a unique and unforgettable retreat.
Utter Inn – Västerås
Location: Mälar Lake, Västerås, Sweden
Opening Hours: Open year-round
Description: Floating on the serene waters of Lake Mälaren, the Utter Inn is a unique underwater hotel offering guests the opportunity to sleep beneath the surface of the lake. With a cozy bedroom submerged underwater and a rooftop deck for stargazing, the Utter Inn promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Personal Experience: Spending a night at the Utter Inn was like stepping into another world. After a tranquil boat ride to the hotel, I descended into the depths of the lake, where I was greeted by the sight of fish swimming past my bedroom window. As night fell, I lay in bed watching the moonlight dance on the water’s surface, feeling a profound sense of peace and serenity. Waking up to the gentle lapping of waves against the hull and the chirping of birds was a truly magical experience, a chance to immerse myself in the beauty and tranquility of Sweden’s natural landscapes.
Embracing the Magic of Swedish Hospitality
As I bid farewell to Sweden and its enchanting hotels, I carry with me memories that will last a lifetime. From the icy corridors of the ICEHOTEL to the treetop sanctuaries of the Treehotel, each accommodation offered a unique glimpse into the country’s soul, a chance to connect with its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. And as I look back on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the magic of Swedish hospitality in all its glory.
