Quebec City: Hôtel de Glace (ice hotel) Overnight Experience

If you’ve ever dreamed of sleeping in a palace of ice, this is your chance. The Hôtel de Glace near Quebec City offers an overnight experience that combines artistry, adventure, and a healthy dose of cold. While it’s not a typical hotel stay, this one-of-a-kind ice hotel promises an unforgettable night in a shimmering, sculpted wonderland, perfect for travelers craving something truly different.

What we love about this experience is the incredible craftsmanship behind the hotel’s stunning ice sculptures and the relaxing amenities like outdoor spas under the stars. Plus, it’s a chance to spend a night in one of North America’s most unique accommodations. The only catch? It’s a cold night’s sleep, so proper preparation is essential. This experience suits those who are adventurous, appreciate art and design, and don’t mind bundling up for a night in temperatures around -5°C (23°F). If you’re looking for a romantic, fun, or just plain unusual trip, this could be perfect.

Key Points

• Unique overnight stay in an ice sculpted hotel, the only one of its kind in North America.
• Includes access to outdoor spas, sauna, and Nordic relaxation area for true winter bliss.
• Sleep in a warm Arctic sleeping bag on a bed of ice, with plenty of thoughtful details to keep you cozy.
• Visit the hotel at your own pace with the option to explore before bedtime and enjoy evening entertainment.
• All logistics sorted with hotel access, parking, and guided info sessions included, making planning straightforward.
• Price reflects a premium experience, but it offers a memorable night in a fairy-tale setting that’s worth the splurge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Hôtel de Glace Overnight Experience

What’s It All About?

Imagine drifting off in a room crafted entirely from shimmering snow and ice, surrounded by intricate sculptures and glowing with LED lights. This is the essence of the Hôtel de Glace experience. The hotel is rebuilt each winter with fresh sculptures and rooms, making each visit a new adventure.

The experience starts at the Valcartier Hotel, where you’ll check in after 4 pm and store your luggage in their accessible room. From there, you’re free to explore the hotel and grounds at your leisure. The self-guided visit allows you to marvel at the stunning ice carvings, which are the work of talented artisans. You might find yourself taking photos of ice chandeliers, sculptures, and themed rooms that resemble fairy-tale castles or modern art pieces.

The Romantic and Artistic Charm

Travelers who appreciate art and craftsmanship will be captivated by the hotel’s design. Each room, especially the thematic suites like the “Queen” suite, showcases innovative ice sculpting techniques. The sparkling snow and ice furnishings create a surreal, fairy-tale vibe that’s unlike any hotel experience elsewhere. One reviewer from France called it “a real wonder of Ice,” highlighting the artistry involved.

Evening Activities and Dining

The experience offers a flexible schedule, but most guests plan their evening to maximize enjoyment. Around 7:30 pm, you can choose to dine at your own expense at the hotel or explore nearby options. After dinner, you’re invited to the central bar, where entertainment runs until about 10 pm—think cozy drinks and chatting in a frosty setting.

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The Magic of Sleeping in Ice

At 9 pm, it’s time to settle into your ice room. This isn’t just an icy cave; it’s a carefully crafted environment designed for comfort amid the cold. You’ll sleep in a special Arctic sleeping bag on a bed made of solid ice topped with a wooden board and an insulating mattress—an ingenious setup that keeps you warm despite the temperature being around -3°C to -5°C (23°F to 27°F).

The Nordic relaxation area offers outdoor hot tubs and a sauna, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing or just warming up during the evening hours. As one reviewer notes, relaxing outdoors under the stars here is “a truly unique experience,” especially in winter.

The Morning After

Wake up the next morning with the option of a breakfast at the Valcartier Hotel (additional cost), then check out by 11 am. Many travelers find that the overnight stay is more about the experience than comfort, but the included amenities and the novelty make it well worth the price.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The package includes your Hôtel de Glace entry ticket, access to the themed Queen suite, participation in an information session, and use of the Nordic relaxation area with hot tubs and sauna. You’ll also be provided with an arctic sleeping bag, parking, and all applicable taxes and gratuities, simplifying the planning process.

Food is not included, so plan to either bring snacks or dine at the hotel if options are available. The experience is designed to be an authentic, immersive adventure, not a culinary extravaganza.

Practical Tips for Your Stay

• Dress warmly: Bring plenty of warm clothing, including hats, gloves, socks, and sandals for walking around outdoor areas.
• Prepare for the cold: Remember that the room temperature stays steady around -4°C, so your sleeping bag and layers are key to comfort.
• Reserve ahead: Because the experience is limited to small groups of just two participants, booking early is advisable.
• Consider extra nights: If you want a full winter getaway, staying at the Valcartier Hotel before or after your ice hotel night might be a good idea.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers universally praise the stunning ice sculptures and the artistic craftsmanship of the hotel. One visitor from France called it a “very nice experience,” emphasizing the “wonder of Ice,” which hints at how memorable and visually captivating this stay is. Another guest appreciated that “everything was on the check mark,” suggesting a well-organized experience that doesn’t leave things to chance.

The Value Proposition

While at $548 for up to two people, this experience isn’t cheap, it’s not just about a night’s sleep. It’s about embracing a fleeting winter wonderland, stepping into a living sculpture, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. For those who want a story to tell and are prepared for the cold, this is a worthwhile splurge.

Who Should Consider This?

This experience is best suited for couples, friends, or adventurous solo travelers craving something truly different. It’s perfect if you’re intrigued by art, design, and unusual accommodations. If you’re a winter sports enthusiast or someone interested in a romantic getaway with a twist, this could be your ideal choice.

However, it’s important to know what you’re signing up for. If your idea of a comfortable night involves soft bedding and a warm room, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re open to a magical night in a sculpted ice palace, you’ll find this experience rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hôtel de Glace open year-round?
No, the ice hotel is rebuilt every winter season, typically available from January through March.

How warm will my room be?
The temperature inside the ice hotel stays around -3°C to -5°C (23°F to 27°F), regardless of outdoor weather.

What should I pack?
Bring warm clothing, hat, gloves, socks, and sandal footwear for outdoor comfort. You’ll sleep in a special Arctic sleeping bag so no need for heavy bedding.

Can I visit the hotel without staying overnight?
Yes, there is a self-guided visit available, but the overnight experience is what truly sets this apart.

What’s included in the package?
Your ticket, access to the themed suite, informative session, Nordic relaxation area with hot tubs and sauna, sleeping bag, and parking.

Are meals included?
No, food is not included, so plan to dine at your own expense or bring snacks.

What’s the booking process like?
Due to the small group size (limited to 2 participants), early reservation is recommended to secure your spot.

Is this activity suitable for children or pets?
Pets are not allowed, and the activity is designed for adult participation. Children should be prepared for the cold and follow safety guidelines.

Final Thoughts

The Hôtel de Glace overnight experience offers a rare chance to sleep in a frosted fairytale—a true highlight for winter travelers. It combines impressive artistry, outdoor relaxation, and the thrill of staying in a living sculpture, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to Quebec.

While the cold night and premium price might be a consideration, the visual beauty and once-in-a-lifetime nature of this experience outweigh the drawbacks for many. It’s a perfect fit for those who love adventure, art, and embracing the winter in all its glacial glory.

If you’re ready to trade your bed for a night of snow and ice, this stay promises stories to tell for years. Just be sure to pack your warmest gear — and perhaps your sense of wonder.

You can check availability for your dates here: