A Night in an Igloo: My Immersion into the Icy Luxury of Arctic SnowHotel

Northern Finland greeted me with sparkling snow and crisp air. I had arrived to personally experience the unique offerings of Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos—spending nights in both a snow hotel and a glass igloo—and to understand how this winter venture has become a standout on the global tourist map.

Icy Walls and Warm Hospitality

From the moment I arrived, the hotel was captivating: icy walls, shimmering lights, and sculptures that resembled works of art. "Each year, we start from scratch, crafting the hotel from the waters of the nearby lake," explained Maria Heikkilä, the hotel manager. "In spring, it all melts away, returning to nature. This is part of our sustainable tourism philosophy."

I chose a room in the snow section. The walls featured hand-carved scenes from Scandinavian mythology. Inside, the temperature hovered around -5°C, but I was provided with an insulating mattress and a sleeping bag designed to keep me warm. "The key is to remember warm socks and a hat," Maria added with a smile.

Transparent Igloos and the Magic of the Northern Lights

The next day, I moved to a glass igloo, offering an even more enchanting experience. "The igloos have become a real hit," shared Jukka Lehtonen, co-founder of Arctic SnowHotel. "Many come here solely for the chance to see the Northern Lights from the comfort of their own bed."

Indeed, lying beneath the glass dome, watching the aurora dance across the sky, was mesmerizing. Such an experience starts at around €450 per night, yet demand remains consistently high, especially during December and January.

The Economics of a Snowy Marvel

Curious about the financial aspects, I inquired further. Jukka was forthcoming: "Last year, we generated approximately €2.5 million in revenue, with a net profit of €700,000. Our occupancy rate reaches 85% during the winter season, allowing the project to break even within three to four months."

Additional income streams include the on-site restaurant, which serves dishes made from local ingredients, and excursions such as snowmobile safaris and husky sled rides. "These services account for about 30% of our total revenue," Jukka noted.

Dining on Ice and Warming in the Sauna

One of the highlights was dining in the ice restaurant, where everything—from tables to chairs—is crafted from ice. The ambient temperature is around -3°C, but hot berry glögg and freshly prepared salmon provided warmth. Such dinners start at €100 per person, and reservations are essential.

After dinner, I experienced a traditional Finnish sauna by the frozen lake. Soaking in the heat, I realized what makes this place special: a seamless blend of natural simplicity and thoughtful comfort.

The Keys to Success

When I asked about the secrets behind their success, Maria responded simply: "People are seeking unique experiences. We offer them something unforgettable." She was right; Arctic SnowHotel is more than just accommodation—it's a comprehensive concept that combines sustainability, adventure, and luxury.

Looking Ahead

Jukka shared their future plans: "We aim to increase the number of igloos and introduce new activities, such as ice sculpture workshops. We're also considering implementing VR technology to give guests a preview experience before booking."

As I departed Arctic SnowHotel, I understood that this venture is not merely about tourism; it's about the art of creating lasting memories. In this art, the Finns have truly excelled.