An Ice-Crafted Masterpiece in the Heart of Finnish Lapland
Every winter, deep in the snowy wilderness of Finnish Lapland, a spectacular world of ice and snow comes to life Lapland Snow Village – A Experience You’ll Never Forget — the Lapland Snow Village. Located near Kittilä and Ylläs, this mesmerizing creation is rebuilt each year using over 20 million kilos of snow and 350,000 kilos of crystal-clear ice. What emerges is nothing short of magical: an entire hotel, restaurant, bar, chapel, and art gallery — all carved from ice.
But this isn’t just a novelty stay — it’s a luxury Arctic experience that blends art, design, and pure Lapland enchantment. From sleeping inside an ice suite sculpted by world-class artists to dining on reindeer steak served on ice tables, the Snow Village offers guests a one-of-a-kind escape few ever experience in Lapland Snow Village –
What Exactly Is the Lapland Snow Village?
The Snow Village is a seasonal art installation and hotel made entirely of ice and snow, rebuilt from scratch every winter between December and April. Each year, the design changes with a new theme — ranging from “Game of Thrones” to “Arctic Legends.” Skilled ice sculptors from around the world create intricate carvings, glittering corridors, and breathtaking suites that feel straight out of a fairy tale in Lapland Snow Village
The complex includes:
- Snow Hotel: featuring ice rooms and luxury ice suites.
- Ice Restaurant & Ice Bar: serving gourmet meals and cocktails in glasses made of ice.
- Ice Chapel: where couples can get married in an ethereal frozen cathedral.
- Ice Cinema & Art Exhibits: with sculptures illuminated by colorful LED lights.
- Warm Area: where guests can enjoy a cozy lounge, sauna, and heated cabins nearby.
Staying Overnight: Luxury in a Frozen World
Lapland Snow Village Sleeping in an ice hotel might sound extreme, but the Snow Village has perfected the art of Arctic comfort. Inside your ice suite, temperatures remain between -2°C and -5°C, but the experience is far from uncomfortable. Guests are provided with thermal sleeping bags, high-quality reindeer hides, and expert guidance on how to sleep warm and comfortably.Lapland Snow Village
Types of Rooms
- Standard Snow Rooms: minimalist ice rooms featuring artistic ice carvings and ambient lighting.
- Deluxe Snow Suites: individually themed and sculpted by international artists — some featuring ice thrones, Arctic animals, or crystal chandeliers carved from ice.
- Warm Cabins: for guests who want the Snow Village experience but prefer a cozy night in heated accommodation. These are located next to the ice structures.
Each room is a work of art, and since the village melts away every spring, no two years are ever the same — making every visit truly once-in-a-lifetime Lapland Snow Village
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Dining at the Ice Restaurant
The Ice Restaurant is one of Lapland’s most exclusive dining experiences. Guests sit on reindeer-fur-covered ice benches and dine by candlelight while surrounded by glowing ice sculptures. The atmosphere is silent except for the faint sound of ice cracking under the warmth of candles in Lapland Snow Village
Typical dishes include:
- Reindeer fillet with lingonberry sauce
- Arctic char (local fish) with root vegetable puree
- Creamy mushroom soup served in ice bowls
- Warm berry desserts and hot glögi (spiced wine)
For drinks, step into the Ice Bar, where cocktails are served in ice glasses — a photo-worthy highlight of the visit.
Book Here a Day trip
Ice Chapel: The Most Magical Wedding Venue on Earth
Few venues in the world can match the romance of saying “I do” surrounded by glistening ice. The Ice Chapel inside the Snow Village hosts weddings and vow renewals each season. The chapel, complete with ice altar and glowing ice columns, offers an ethereal setting that feels like stepping inside a crystal palace.
After the ceremony, couples can celebrate with champagne at the Ice Bar, followed by a candlelit dinner and an overnight stay in a private snow suite. For luxury Arctic weddings, the Lapland Snow Village is one of the world’s most unique destinations.
Top Things to Do Around the Snow Village
While the Snow Village itself is a major attraction, the surrounding area offers a wealth of Arctic adventures. From husky sled rides to Northern Lights safaris, here are the top luxury experiences to enjoy nearby.
1. Husky Safari Through the Arctic Wilderness
Glide across frozen landscapes with your own team of enthusiastic huskies. This unforgettable experience lets you drive the sled yourself or sit back while a guide takes you through snow-covered forests and frozen lakes.
→ Book via GetYourGuide: “Husky Safari from Levi or Ylläs”
2. Snowmobile Expedition Under the Northern Lights
For adrenaline and beauty combined, join a guided snowmobile tour at night. As you race across the Arctic tundra, you might witness the sky erupt in waves of green, purple, and pink.
→ Book via GetYourGuide: “Northern Lights Snowmobile Safari”
3. Reindeer Sleigh Ride and Sami Culture
Learn about traditional Lapland culture from local Sami guides while gliding through the snow in a reindeer sleigh. This peaceful journey is ideal for couples and families alike.
→ Book via GetYourGuide: “Reindeer and Sami Experience from Kittilä”
4. Northern Lights Viewing & Photography Tour
Professional guides take you far from city lights to capture the Aurora Borealis at its best. Many tours include warm snacks, photography help, and even heated snow huts.
→ Book via GetYourGuide: “Lapland Northern Lights Photography Tour”
5. Visit Levi Ski Resort
Only about 45 minutes away lies Levi, Finland’s premier ski resort, with high-end chalets, luxury spas, and fine dining. Combine a stay at the Snow Village with a few days of skiing for the ultimate Arctic vacation.
Luxury Hotels and Stays Near the Snow Village
Not everyone sleeps in ice — and that’s okay. The area around the Snow Village offers several luxury heated accommodations perfect for extending your Lapland adventure.
1. Arctic Light Hotel (Rovaniemi)
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A design-driven boutique hotel offering chic rooms, gourmet breakfast, and warm hospitality. Perfect for guests arriving through Rovaniemi Airport before heading north.
2. Northern Lights Ranch (Kittilä)
Stay in glass-roofed cabins designed for Aurora viewing right from your bed. Each cabin includes private saunas and outdoor jacuzzis — a dream for luxury travelers.
→ [Book Northern Lights Ranch on Trip.com
3. Levin Iglut – Golden Crown (Levi)
These stunning glass igloos offer panoramic views of the Arctic sky. Heated, cozy, and ultra-romantic — ideal for honeymooners combining comfort and nature.
→ [Book Levin Iglut – Golden Crown on Booking.com]
4. Design Hotel Levi
Part of the Levi ski resort complex, this upscale hotel offers elegant interiors, spa access, and gourmet dining — perfect for those who want luxury plus convenience.
→ [Book Design Hotel Levi on Trip.com
All of these accommodations can be paired with GetYourGuide excursions and private transfers, making your Arctic trip seamless.
How to Get There
The Lapland Snow Village is located between Ylläs and Levi, in the municipality of Kittilä, Finland.
Nearest airport:
Kittilä Airport (KTT) – only 30 minutes away by car or shuttle.
By air:
- Daily flights connect Kittilä with Helsinki and other major European cities.
- From the airport, taxis or private transfers can be arranged directly to the Snow Village.
By train:
- Take the night train from Helsinki to Kolari, then a short bus or taxi ride to the Snow Village.
By car:
- Roads are well maintained even in winter, but renting a 4WD vehicle is recommended.
Best Time to Visit
The Lapland Snow Village is open from mid-December to early April, depending on weather conditions.
- December–January: Deep winter atmosphere with heavy snow — ideal for full Arctic immersion.
- February–March: Longer days, perfect for outdoor safaris and Northern Lights photography.
- April: Melting begins, so visit early in the month for the best conditions.
Northern Lights season: Late August to April.
If your goal is to combine luxury + Aurora Borealis, late February is the golden window — plenty of snow, mild temperatures, and clear skies.Lapland Snow Village
What to Pack for a Luxury Arctic Stay
Even luxury requires preparation. Here’s what to bring for maximum comfort:
- Thermal base layers (merino wool preferred)
- Down jacket or parka
- Wool socks and insulated boots
- Gloves, hat, and scarf
- Headlamp or small flashlight
- Portable power bank (cold drains batteries fast)
Don’t worry about sleeping gear — the Snow Village provides everything for your ice suite experience.
Exclusive Experiences & Private Tours
If you’re seeking exclusivity, many luxury operators offer private packages:
- Private Snow Suite Stay with Champagne & Gourmet Dinner
- Aurora Chasing in a Heated Glass Dome
- VIP Snowmobile & Husky Combo Tour
- Private Transfer from Levi or Rovaniemi with Arctic Guide
These can be booked through partners such as GetYourGuide, Trip.com, or Luxury Lapland Travel agencies.
Sustainability & the Art of Melting
Every spring, when temperatures rise, the Snow Village melts back into nature. The water returns to the nearby river, symbolizing sustainability and renewal. Nothing is wasted; the ice becomes part of Lapland’s natural cycle again.
The creators behind the Snow Village emphasize environmental respect — no permanent structures, minimal energy use, and locally sourced snow. It’s luxury in harmony with nature.
Why Lapland Snow Village Belongs on Your Bucket List
Few destinations in the world combine art, adventure, and Arctic luxury the way Lapland Snow Village does.
It’s not just a place to stay — it’s a temporary world of wonder, built by hand, that vanishes every year like a dream.
Imagine:
- Sleeping in a glowing ice suite sculpted by international artists
- Toasting champagne in a frozen bar
- Watching the Northern Lights from your glass igloo
- And waking up surrounded by pure Arctic silence
For travelers seeking the extraordinary, Lapland Snow Village offers a blend of luxury, serenity, and natural beauty that’s unlike anywhere else on Earth.Lapland Snow Village
