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

Planning a winter getaway that’s a little different? The Hôtel de Glace in Quebec offers a one-of-a-kind overnight experience that turns the usual hotel stay into a frosty adventure. This review explores what makes this icy retreat so appealing, along with practical details to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

What we love about this experience are the breathtaking ice art, the fun of sleeping in a sleeping bag designed for arctic temperatures, and the chance to unwind in outdoor spas beneath the stars. Plus, it’s a chance to see the world’s only ice hotel in North America—definitely a bucket-list-worthy sight. That said, it’s important to note the room temperature stays between -3°C and -5°C, so it’s not for those who prefer a warm bed. This experience suits travelers looking for something memorable, adventurous, and a little quirky, especially if you’re comfortable with cool temps and enjoy unique hotel stays.

Good To Know

• Unique overnight experience in an ice hotel with stunning sculptures and themed rooms.
• Includes access to outdoor spas and a sauna in the Nordic relaxation area for a relaxing winter evening.
• Sleeping in an Arctic sleeping bag on a solid ice bed offers an authentic cold-weather adventure.
• All costs, taxes, and fees are included in the package, with food and drinks at your expense.
• Small group experience limited to just two participants, ensuring a personalized touch.
• Perfect for adventure seekers who want a memorable, visually spectacular night in Quebec.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What is the Hôtel de Glace Experience?

The Hôtel de Glace isn’t your typical hotel—it’s a massive, intricately carved ice structure that’s rebuilt every winter. You’ll spend a night in a sculpted suite made entirely of snow and ice, surrounded by glittering ice carvings and themed furnishings. The experience begins with a check-in at the nearby Valcartier Hotel, where your luggage is stored, so you can fully enjoy the ice hotel without dragging your bags around.

Your stay includes an entry ticket to the hotel, an informative session about the ice hotel, and access to the Nordic relaxation area featuring outdoor hot tubs and a sauna. At 9 pm, you’ll head to your specially prepared ice room, where you’ll sleep in an ultra-comfy arctic sleeping bag on a bed made of solid ice topped with a wooden insulating layer. It’s a surreal experience—imagine waking up to the sight of sparkling sculptures and crisp winter air.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Your day starts with check-in at the Valcartier Hotel after 4 pm, where you can leave your luggage and get ready for a night of icy wonder. Between 3:30 pm and 7:30 pm, you’ll attend an informative session that covers the history and construction of the ice hotel, plus safety tips for your overnight stay. This is also your chance to explore the hotel at your own pace, taking in the sweeping ice corridors and artistic sculptures.

Dinner is at your own expense, giving you flexibility to choose whether to dine onsite or venture out to local eateries. From 9 pm onward, you can enjoy the hotel’s central bar for some entertainment and socializing. Then, from 9 pm until breakfast the next morning, you’ll be sleeping in your ice room, wrapped in the provided Arctic sleeping bag.

The next morning, you are free to utilize your room at the Valcartier Hotel to get ready for departure or a further day of exploration, with an optional breakfast available at checkout. Check-out from both the hotel and the ice hotel is at 11 am, giving you plenty of time to reflect on your chilly but charming experience.

What Makes the Ice Hotel Special?

The main draw here is the visual spectacle. The entire hotel is an art installation, with each room and corridor meticulously sculpted from ice and snow. Reviewers describe the hotel as “beautiful” and “a real wonder of ice,” with the craftsmanship evident throughout the space. The themed Queen suite, which is included in the package, is designed to evoke a regal winter atmosphere, complete with ice carvings that make you feel like royalty.

The outdoor Nordic relaxation area, with its hot tubs and sauna, offers an excellent contrast to the cold indoors, allowing you to warm up while still enjoying the wintry surroundings. Guests frequently mention the stunning views and the chance to relax under the stars, which makes the experience feel genuinely magical.

Sleeping in the Ice: Comfort and Practicality

Sleeping in an ice hotel might sound daunting, but the provided Arctic sleeping bag is rated for temperatures down to -30°C, ensuring you stay warm enough through the night. The bed itself is made of ice but topped with a wooden board and an insulating mattress, offering a surprisingly comfortable sleeping surface.

Reviewers like Marcel mentioned that “everything was on the check mark,” implying the accommodations meet expectations despite their icy nature. The room temperature is maintained between -3°C and -5°C, regardless of the outside weather, so dressing appropriately is key. Guests recommend bringing warm clothing, socks, gloves, and a hat, as well as swimwear for the hot tubs.

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Is the Price Worth It?

At $548 per group (up to 2 people), this experience isn’t cheap, but it’s important to weigh the cost against the uniqueness of the adventure. You’re paying for a luxurious, artistically crafted ice hotel and a memorable overnight that few get to experience. The package includes all taxes and fees, making it straightforward in terms of budgeting. Food isn’t included, but the flexibility to dine at your own pace and expense offers some control over your overall spend.

The reviews highlight that guests find the experience “very nice” and “beautiful,” and many note the value of seeing such detailed ice artistry firsthand. If you’re someone who values distinctive travel experiences and stunning visuals, this might be considered an excellent investment in creating memories.

Practical Tips for Your Stay

• Dress warmly with layers, including socks and gloves, to stay comfortable in the cold indoor environment.
• Bring swimwear if you plan to enjoy the outdoor hot tubs or sauna.
• Consider booking a night at the Valcartier Hotel before or after your ice hotel stay for added comfort.
• Allocate enough time for the check-in process and the evening information session, as these are both part of the experience.
• Be prepared for an early check-out at 11 am, with an optional breakfast if desired.

Authentic Experiences Revealed in Reviews

Reviewers like GetYourGuide traveler from France appreciated the “really nice experience” and the “real wonders of ice,” emphasizing the artistic effort behind each sculpture. Marcel’s comment about the hotel being “beautiful” and “on the check mark” indicates the hotel lives up to its reputation for visual appeal and overall quality. The fact that the rooms are themed and artistically crafted makes every corner a photo opportunity, which is something many travelers cherished.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This overnight adventure is perfect for adventure lovers who want a different kind of trip and are comfortable with cold temperatures. It’s also great for romantic couples, art enthusiasts, or bucket-list travelers eager to experience a hotel made entirely of ice. The limited group size of two makes it intimate and personalized, but it might feel a bit tight for those who prefer more space or warmth.

Travelers should be prepared for the chilly environment and plan their clothing accordingly. If you’re a fan of quirky, visually stunning destinations and don’t mind sleeping in a cold room, this experience offers a rare opportunity to spend a night in a true winter wonderland.

The Sum Up

The Hôtel de Glace overnight experience offers a rare blend of artistry, adventure, and relaxation. The stunning ice sculptures, outdoor hot tubs, and themed rooms create an environment that’s both immersive and picturesque. While it may not suit those who dislike cold temperatures, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking something truly different—and memorable.

Considering the included access to the Nordic relaxation area and the opportunity to sleep in an ice sculpture setting, many guests find the experience worth the cost. It’s a perfect way to add a touch of magic to a Quebec winter trip, especially if you’re eager to combine outdoor adventure with artistic spectacle.

For those who value meaningful, visually striking experiences and don’t mind a bit of chill, the Hôtel de Glace offers a night that’s sure to stand out in your travel memories.

FAQ

Is the room temperature in the Hôtel de Glace below freezing?
Yes, the room temperature is maintained between -3°C and -5°C, so be prepared for a cold environment regardless of outdoor temperatures.

Are food and drinks included in the package?
No, food is not included. You can dine at your own expense, either at the hotel or nearby, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred options.

What should I bring for my overnight stay?
Warm clothing, socks, gloves, a hat, and swimwear for the outdoor spas are recommended. The Arctic sleeping bag provided will keep you warm enough overnight.

Can I book extra nights at the Valcartier Hotel?
Yes, you might consider reserving a room at the Valcartier Hotel for the nights before or after your ice hotel stay for added comfort.

Is this experience suitable for children or only adults?
The package is designed for small groups of up to two participants, so it is most suitable for adults or couples seeking an intimate experience.

What is included in the price?
The price includes entry to the Hôtel de Glace, the themed Queen suite, access to the Nordic relaxation area, the Arctic sleeping bag, parking, and all taxes and fees.

How long is the overall experience?
The activity typically lasts one day, with check-in after 4 pm and check-out at 11 am the following day, including the time spent exploring and enjoying the hotel.

This experience offers a striking mix of art, adventure, and relaxation—perfect for those ready to embrace winter in a truly extraordinary way.

You can check if your dates are available here: