Updated on March 29, 2022, the Quebec Ice Hotel, or Hôtel de Glace as it’s known in French, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the captivating beauty of winter. Located at 2280 Bd Valcartier, Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier, QC G0A 4S0, Canada, and reachable by phone at +1 418-844-2200, this ephemeral architectural marvel is more than just a hotel; it’s an immersive experience that draws visitors into a world of ice and snow. The Quebec’s Ice Hotel is the only one of its kind in North America.
A Frozen Fantasy: Understanding Ice Hotels
Ice hotels, found in northern climates where winter reigns supreme, present a unique proposition: accommodation sculpted entirely from ice and snow. The allure is undeniable, offering a romantic and adventurous escape. However, beneath the enchanting facade lies a reality of sub-zero temperatures and unconventional comforts. The Quebec’s Ice Hotel delivers on the experience.
Planning Your Arctic Adventure
Nestled approximately 20 minutes outside the vibrant heart of Quebec City and a convenient 30 minutes from Quebec City International Airport, the Quebec’s Ice Hotel provides easy access to both urban exploration and international travel. The hotel itself is thoughtfully positioned near a traditional lodge, serving as a check-in point and secure storage area for guests’ belongings.
Daytime visitors can partake in guided tours, marveling at the intricate ice carvings and the sheer scale of the structure. Tours typically run until early evening, but the Ice Bar remains open until midnight for ticket holders seeking a frosty cocktail. After midnight, the hotel becomes an exclusive haven for overnight guests. Transportation to and from hotels in Quebec City can be arranged for an additional fee, adding convenience to the unique experience.
Embarking on the Overnight Experience
Stepping inside the Quebec’s Ice Hotel is like entering a fantastical realm. The meticulous artistry and painstaking construction are immediately apparent, leaving visitors in awe. The interior lighting casts an ethereal glow, enhancing the magical atmosphere, which is best experienced after the daytime crowds have departed. As tours conclude and the DJ sets the mood, the hotel transforms into a sanctuary for those brave enough to spend the night.
An overnight stay is not for the faint of heart. It requires a spirit of adventure and a willingness to forego typical hotel amenities for the novelty of sleeping in an upscale igloo. The interior temperature hovers between -3 degrees Celsius (26 degrees Fahrenheit) and -5 degrees Celsius (23 degrees Fahrenheit). The four-foot-thick ice walls act as natural insulators, shielding guests from the biting winds and creating a surprisingly stable environment, similar to the principles of an igloo.
The evening unfolds with a drink at the Ice Bar, where cocktails are served in glasses made of ice, followed by a dip in the outdoor hot tub (though perhaps not hot enough to truly thaw you out!). A welcome respite can be found in the sauna, offering a blast of warmth before settling in for the night. Guests are provided with detailed instructions from the staff on how to maximize warmth and comfort. This involves snuggling into a specialized thermal sleeping bag, which is placed on top of a bed comprised of a solid ice base, a wooden box spring, and a mattress. While many enjoy a few hours of sound sleep, some may find themselves waking up during the coldest hours, potentially disrupting their rest.
Privacy in the ice rooms is maintained through pull curtains, rather than traditional doors. Noise levels are generally low, as guests tend to conserve energy and embrace the quiet solitude of their icy surroundings. For convenience, each bed is equipped with a built-in light switch.
A heated structure, located near the hot tubs and sauna, provides essential amenities such as electricity, separate male and female changing rooms, flush toilets, hairdryers, and secure lockers. This heated area offers a comfortable space to prepare for the night and freshen up in the morning.
If meals are included in your package, they are served at the nearby Auberge Duchesnay, a short distance from the Ice Hotel.
Packages and promotions vary in price and inclusions. Overnight stays typically include a complimentary cocktail at the Ice Bar, access to the hot tubs and sauna, the use of thermal sleeping bags and camping pillows, guidance on staying warm, and a hot beverage in the morning. Many packages also feature a hot breakfast at the Auberge Duchesnay, just a brief three-minute walk away.
More comprehensive packages often include a room at the Auberge Duchesnay, offering a backup option or primary accommodation, as well as dinner at the Auberge restaurant. These packages often have themes centered around romance or adventure. Rates for the Ice Hotel experience begin at $399 per night.
Essential Tips for an Unforgettable Visit
Before committing to an overnight stay, it’s crucial to assess whether it aligns with your expectations. A tour and a drink at the Ice Bar might be sufficient for some, especially considering the warm and inviting lodge nearby. If you decide that staying overnight is the right choice, carefully examine the available promotions and packages. Packages typically include a delicious dinner and a room at the Auberge Duchesnay as a safety net against the cold. Promotions, on the other hand, are generally more basic in their offerings.
Ultimately, a visit to the Quebec’s Ice Hotel is a memorable adventure. It’s an experience unlike any other and can create a lifetime of memories.
