Magazine 2009/10

Art &
Design
eternal & ephemeral

Sound of
midwinter
Sofia Jannok

Destination
Space

Torne River
is the source

Celebrating
20 years
of life enriching moments

Arctic experience
There is only one reason to visit – your own. Find it at www.swedishlapland.com.

vinter. Foto Fredrik Broman, Håkan Hjort.

The adventures of
Swedish Lapland.
®

Do you long for somewhere that offers new experiences and in-
sights? A place where you can let your thoughts wander and dis-
cover new horizons?
  If so, Swedish Lapland is an ideal destination. Tremendous con-
trasts await you: mountains and archipelagos, light and darkness,
warmth and the cold. But also small details; so tiny that you’ve never
even considered them: the deafening sound of snow falling slowly
to the ground. The sun glowing like fire in the middle of the night.
  Here you have the time that you normally lack to discover how
magnificent such small details can be. Swedish Lapland is close by,
yet extremely far away. Welcome to our county.
WWW.NAPAPIIRIJEANS.COM

HANDMADE IN LAPLAND

AVAILABLE
FROM ICE HOTEL SHOP
Hello
THAT IS OUR greatest opportunity, and I think the phrase is
worth repeating again and again. Over the years, since the early-1980s
and long before ICEHOTEL was conceived, this has been the starting
point for everyone involved in our local heritage association. We have
been driven by a desire to live and work here, in Jukkasjärvi. We live
off the river and with the river. Closeness to, and respect for, nature
is implicit in what we do. Perhaps that is why ICEHOTEL’s environ-
mental commitment is so strong.This year, we
made an important decision. By 2015 at the
Dig
latest, ICEHOTEL will produce more energy
than we use. We will even be CO2 negative.
This means that ICEHOTEL’s guests will be
helping to improve the environment. where
ICEHOTEL 20 years
2010 will be a year of celebration, as it marks
you
the 20th anniversary of ICEHOTEL. Visitors
from all corners of the world journey here stand
for the experience of a lifetime. It feels fan-
tastic to be a part of that story. In recent years, much is
yet
ICEHOTEL has grown to become an interna-
tional player with presence in many locations
besides Jukkasjärvi. This means that you can
see crystal-clear ice from the Torne River in
icebars throughout the world and at fairs, ex- to be
hibitions and corporate events.
Development means change. In that respect,
the Torne River is a constant source of inspira-
done!
tion. When I look out over the river, it always
presents a new face. It is magnificent to be a part of this journey with
the mighty Torne River. But I am aware that our story will be but a brief
interlude in the saga of our wise and ancient companion. Still, it is my
hope that ICEHOTEL and the Torne River will inspire greater respect
for our fantastic planet, here and now.
You’ll discover that ICEHOTEL is so much more than ice.
See you at ICEHOTEL.
Yngve Bergqvist,CEO
6 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
more than words
Hello
Many thanks for the great conference we had
at Icehotel, 10-11 March. Everything went
perfectly, and the hostesses who took care of us
did a fabulous job. They gave us a friendly re-
ception and excellent service. They were always
there to do everything to make our meeting a
success. Our complements to the kitchen staff.
Everything was superb; from wonderful cinna-
mon buns and tasty lunches to the fantastic
dinner. And we also wish to thank the folks at
your activity centre (we went dogsledding and
snowmobiling). The activities were very popular
and the guides friendly and knowledgeable. I
have to say that Icehotel and the surroundings
were incredible, and that the whole experience
wouldn’t have been quite the same without your
service-minded staff.
Regards,
Camilla Wide,
Global Project Co-ordinator Symbicort
AstraZeneca R&D Lund
Many thanks for a memorable
anniversary...
We wish to thank you for a memorable stay in
connection with our silver wedding anniversary.
Everything was top-notch: the best weather pos-
sible, perfect kick-sledding conditions, great
food. There were a lot of interesting things to
see; for example, how the rooms were main-
tained. We had an opportunity to escape the
urban stress. The drinks were delightful and
the Northern Lights appeared. We had a good
night’s sleep in room 311. The staff were really
friendly and took excellent care of us.
Anders and Ann-Louise Hagbjörk
Stockholm
Icehotel was amazing
The night in the ice room really was pretty warm,
even though it was -14 C outside. We truly en-
joyed our trips on the dogsled and the snow-
mobiles. We got really lucky with the weather
and saw the Northern Lights in all of their glory,
which was probably the highlight of the trip.
Thank you for helping us to arrange such a me-
morable and adventurous honeymoon. On our
flight to Stockholm we sat next to Bear, who was
on his way from Hawaii. We told him where we
were going and he said, “That’s a great way to
start your lifetime of adventures together.” I just
couldn’t agree more.
Best regards,
Photo by Fredrik Alm
Kevin and Carol Brooks
Spot the vegetarian.
First we raised the chassis and gave the car a new front and rear bumpers. Then we
gave it a new name: Saab 9-3X. Above all, we installed a turbocharged BioPower engine
running on bioethanol made from renewable resources. The Saab 9-3X is also more
functional (just take a peek in the cargo space) and has XWD, Saab’s all-wheel-drive
system, which ensures better traction and handling. Being Scandinavian we know the
importance of being able to handle all road conditions, including the wintery roads to
the Ice Hotel.

Experience the new Saab 9-3X at saab.com

FUEL CONSUMPTION: PETROL, 8.1–10.1L/100KM. AN OFFICIAL CERTIFICATION PROCEDURE IS NOT YET AVAILABLE
FOR E85 OPERATION. CARBON DIOXIDE EMISSIONS (CO2): PETROL, 194–242 G/KM; WITH E85, UP TO 80% REDUCED
FOSSIL CO2 EMISSIONS. ENVIRONMENTAL CLASS 2005. CAR SHOWN WITH OPTIONAL EXTRAS.
Content / Crew
48
9 Current 26 Art 64 Roundtrip space
Sami vocalist Sofia Jannoks songs A tearful meeting of magnetite & ice Accredited Space Agent

32
are embers in the wind
66 Workplace: space
11 Current Meet Swedish astronaut
Sportswear of Sweden, Christer Fuglesang
new technology in icy context

Icehotel

70
15 Current
Who said diamonds are forever? 20 years

16
From the 54 Science
source to Jukkas Northern lights & midnight sun

42 The jury
56 World tour
Art & Design group selects next
seasons artists
Icehotel at a bar close to you
BOOK
Your Lapland
Everything 44 Eating out 59 Travel diary experience starts here
revolves around the Wild cooking under open skies Family Berg meets snow
Torne River

Linnea Jennie Susanna

Palmgren Wikström Porter
Operations manager/ Acting manager,
Öhman
guide Björklidens Fjällby Project manager MHA /
Coordinator ADG

It’s just after Midsummer and Jukkasjärvi
is buzzing with activity. The summer guests are here
to witness the bright summer nights and experience
nature in the wild fell country.
What shouldn’t one miss when
visiting Jukkasjärvi and ICEHOTEL
in the summer?
“A must is a visit to the ice factory. It’s an amazing
feeling to go from the warmth of summer straight
into winter in just a few seconds. The production
line, where we process the natural ice that ‘grows’
here in the winter, usually gives rise to a lot of ques-
tions and comments. And seeing a mountain of ice
waiting to be made into next season’s ICEHOTEL
never fails to astonish people.”
Which activities do ICEHOTEL’s
summer guests request?
“The wild, free-flowing river has a great appeal. There
is a huge demand for ICEHOTEL’s high-class white-
water rafting. In Jukkasjärvi, many guests are inte-
rested in local history and the Sami heritage. A visit
to Jukkasjärvi’s church, which celebrated 400 years
in the summer of 2008, is another must. Many of
our guests come from very far away, and when they
are here they want to experience Lapland. Thanks to
ICEHOTEL’s extensive network of tour arrangers, we
are able to offer individual custom packages for guests
who wish to explore the entire Nordkalott region.”
TR
YC
KSAK 341 14
7
Gone are the intensive months of skiing and
all kinds of other winter activities; ahead waits a bright
summer of trekking and adventure in the unique and
accessible mountain country that surrounds the resort.
Winter in Björkliden. What
shouldn’t visitors miss?
“Regardless of the season, a visit to Låktatjåkko
mountain station is highly recommended. At 1,228
metres above sea level, it is Sweden’s highest. Sum-
mer and winter, it is easily accessible. You can reach
it by snowcat or snowmobile. Those with a taste for
a challenge arrive on skis. In summer, hiking is the
best way. In addition to a visit to Låktatjåkko, skiing
on our long, well-groomed runs is a definite must.
On our mountain, there is something for everyone.
Advanced skiers will find just what they’re looking for
in our off-piste area. Christmas and New Year’s cele-
brations at Björkliden are a very popular new winter
product. Guests can leave all the usual Christmas
stress behind and let us take care of them while they
enjoy the magical experience of midwinter with the
artic light and Northern Lights.”
And what happens at Björkliden
in the summer?
“That’s what makes our resort so fantastic. It chan-
ges entirely with the seasons. In summer, trekking
is the main activity, and the light is incredible. We
offer an unbeatable range of alternatives to suit eve-
ryone from families with children to serious outdoors
adventurers. And our golf course, which is Sweden’s
northernmost, attracts many enthusiasts. The magic
of Midnight Sun golf, being able to golf around the
clock, is second to none. The 9 hole/18 tee course
is situated in a spectacular high-fell country setting
and commands a magnificent view of Lapporten.”
Sanna Porter Öhman is project manager
for Magnetite Heavy Art and coordinator for the ICE-
HOTEL Art & Design Group. She is busy with pre-
parations for a show featuring works from Magnetite
Heavy Art.
Magnetite Heavy Art. What’s that?
“It’s a joint project with many partners, including
LKAB and the Municipality of Kiruna. The common
vision, which started with an idea by ice architect
Åke Larsson, is to explore the use of magnetite as an
art material. It’s exciting when many people gather
around an idea. We have to work that way here in
the North.”
Magnetite is surrounded in mys-
tique. Can you explain why?
“The material is black, ferromagnetic and very dense.
Legend has it that magnetite brings truth, strength,
health and love. And it stores heat or cold very well.
In the summer, the sculptures will be charged with
heat from the sun and will radiate lots of solar en-
ergy. We will see an exciting contrast in winter, when
the black, permanent magnetite meets the white,
transitory snow.”

Publisher & responsible under Swedish publishing law. Yngve Bergqvist | Editors ronny olovsson | Ella jonsson | camilla bondareva | Creative Director annika fredriksson | Art Director Magdalena sjödin
Photographers anders alm | andreas lundberg | håkan hjort | hans-olof Utsi | photobigben.com. | Frontcover Main Hall ICEHOTEL 2009. Artists Arne Bergh & Anders Nilsson. photobigben.com.
Printed by color print aB 2009. This magazine cannot be responsible for unsolicited material.

8 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
 Current
Sofia Jannok’s voice warms like
the glowing embers of the fire at the cen-
tre of the tent kåta. And that is the title of
her latest CD, ÁŠŠogáttis, “By the Embers”.
Sofia explains.
“I think of the songs as embers in the wind.
They have been with me on tours and at gigs
for years. You could say that they were all
written to be performed live. This felt like
the right time to put all the embers together
and release a CD, a glowing bed of coals.”
A video featuring “Irene”, the first single
from the new CD, was shot at Icehotel.
“I wanted to show midwinter at its best.
You know, days when the cold holds nature
in an iron grip and the sky lights up with the
most fabulous colours. The day we shot the
outdoor scenes, on the road to Nikkaluokta,
it was -32°C. The cold is visible in the images
and it’s magical,” says Sofia.
“Irene” is personal jojk. In a jojk of this type,
the names of the individual’s forebears are
sung; in this case, ending with Irene’s father’s
name.The lyrics speak of reindeer calves with
Irene’s earmark on the fells. The rest of the
song is mostly without lyrics, backed by a so-
lid pop beat. “In the video there is a sequence
in which Irene enters the spellbinding at-
mosphere of Icehotel, which symbolizes
a fairytale castle in the video. I can’t imagine
a better setting than Icehotel. It really is a
Photo by Carl-Johan Utsi

fairytale castle,” concludes Sofia Jannok.

Sofia Jannok Sami vocalist who has performed on stage

Embers
in the wind
since she was 11 Current new CD ÁŠŠogáttis, “By the
Embers” The CD can be purchased at Icehotel. Sofia is now
touring Sweden. Tours of Europe and Asia are planned
Home Gällivare, Sieidegava & Stockholm music video See
the video on YouTube.

Test of Love at Icehotel

A love song entitled The Ice Hotel
won first prize in the jazz category
of the International Songwriting
Competition 2009. The song, in
which fire and ice meet in cont-
rast, features the romantic voice of
Stacey Kent backed by a sensual,
jazzy bossa nova. It visualizes
ICEHOTEL as the ultimate travel
destination for lovers. The couple
in the song have no doubts about
their relationship and are totally
committed to each other. Instead
of travelling to a hot, tropical para-
dise, they want to test their love by
visiting ICEHOTEL. If they make it
through a night here, they’ll know
their love is true. The melody was
written by Stacey Kent’s husband,
musician Jim Tomlinson, and the
lyrics are by Kazuo Ishiguro.
www.songwritingcompetition.com
www.staceykent.com

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 9
Current

Unique
exposure with ice &
new technology
Sportswear of Sweden, SOS, is launching a whole new
retail concept that will allow customers to test functional garments
at the right temperature, right in the shop, even during summer.
New technology and ten tonnes of crystal-clear ice from the Torne
River make it possible.
Tjåsa Gusfors is a designer and ice sculptor. Together with desig-
ner colleague Jens Toms Ivarsson, she has developed the 25m2 in-
shop ice showroom. Both are acclaimed artists and designers with
considerable experience of creating art in ice and snow.
“This is my first ice room beyond Icehotel Jukkasjärvi. It’s ex-
citing to work in a completely different context and see people’s
reactions when they encounter an unexpected milieu,” says Tjåsa.
The new shop was developed by architectural firm Guise in col-
laboration with Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi.
“It’s inspiring to work on this type of assignment with other desig-
ners, interior designers and architects. In this particular case, with
Showroom in ICE, we have started with SOS’s core values and given
them artistic expression. The shop is an exciting meeting of urban
culture and nature’s own design,” explains Tjåsa.
To protect the ice, an entirely new type of solar protective film has
been used on the shop windows. The film is based on nanotechno-
logy and filters both IR and UV radiation.
IR is perceived as heat and UV is what causes, for example, clo-
thing and upholstery to fade. What makes the protective film unique
is the fact that it is completely transparent. This means that shoppers
can still see through the window, while the heat factor is reduced by
as much as 50% and fading is minimized.
The SOS shop, on Norrlandsgatan
in Stockholm, is the first of a series of
new outlets to be opened throughout
the world. Next to open will be shops
in Australia and Japan, where SOS is
strengthening its existing sales channels
with the Showroom in ICE concept.
Photos by Hans-Olof Utsi

Sportswear of Sweden, SOS, is already

synonymous with skiwear, but will now
expand with collections of sportswear and
streetwear, as well as a coming spring
collection that will give consumers a
chance to wear SOS year-round.

10 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
MAKING
STATEMENTS
SINCE
1872

COPENHAGEN

MILAN

LONDON

PARIS

DUSSELDORF

AMSTERDAM

STOCKHOLM

OSLO

ANTWERP

HELSINKI

BAAR

NEW YORK

TOKYO

DUBAI

THE ORIGINAL FRITZ HANSEN EGG™ CHAIR DESIGNED BY ARNE JACOBSEN IN 1958

FRITZHANSEN.COM
Current

Sandvik
painted Chicago yellow
Tjåsa Gusfors sculpted live at the exhibit. A magnetic
effect on the crowd.
It started as a crazy idea. Today, it’s a success. Now Sandvik
Coromant’s marketing communications are even cooler and smarter
than ever. It all started in 2005, when Sandvik Coromant was loo-
king for a way of strengthening its brand at trade fairs throughout the
world. In Icehotel, they found a partner that could deliver.
“We had decided to abandon our conventional trade-fair stand ap-
proach. The vision was to offer visitors a new and entertaining expe-
Photos by Michael Gottino

rience. To be frank, the ice thing started as a crazy idea,” says Pernilla
Eriksson, Vice President for Communications at Sandvik Coromant.
The crazy idea was soon a reality. Today, three years and many trade
fairs later, it’s a resounding success. “Discussions about ideas and solu-
ICEHOTEL Event team.
tions have driven us and Icehotel to a world-class level.The Smart
Hub and the ice were on everybody’s lips during IMTS.”
There is a natural, logical link between Icehotel and Sandvik
Coromant. Pernilla Eriksson continues: “We are both high-quality,
Swedish companies that put a lot into innovation, research and deve-
lopment. We also share many common values.” When asked how she
views her company’s collaboration with Icehotel, Pernilla replies
without hesitation.
“For us, it’s quite simply a smart, value-creating partnership that has
given us a strong common platform upon which we can continue to
build. We aim to continue working with Icehotel for at least three “Regardless of whether we’re dealing with metal
machining or beautiful ice creations, it’s a matter of
more years. Now, we’re working hard to find new value-creating ac- thinking and acting smart, right from the start,” says
tivities that we can do together. The companies continue to challenge Björn Roodzant, Marketing Manager, Sandvik
each other. Both are driven by the desire to find new solutions.” Coromant USA.

Explore the Nordkalott region with
SAAB Ice Driving Experience. Drive
your own car through sub-arctic
country. After a two-night stay in
the magical ice world of Icehotel,
where you are surrounded by art and
culture, the pristine and easily ac-
cessible high-fell country of Sweden
and Norway awaits you.
The road twists and turns along
Torneträsk as you head for the bor-
der. Soon, the majestic Lapporten
rises up ahead to greet you with
open arms.
The feeling of getting so close to
nature, of being right in the midd-
le of it, is overwhelming. Take the
chance to pause and learn the excit-
ing history of a pioneering era, when
the railway was built through coun-
try with no roads, far above the Ar-
ctic Circle. Visit the railway navvies’
church and cemetery on the shores
of Torneträsk.
Arctic
Experience Tour with SAAB
Across the border, in Norway, you
reach the Atlantic coast, with its
bluish-green fiords, which are ice-
free, thanks to the Gulf Stream.
Picturesque Lofoten, with its fishing
harbours, ferries and exciting history
will give you experiences that will be-
come lifelong memories. Join a whale
safari. Depending on the season,
there’s a good chance that you’ll have
close encounters with orcas, sperm
whales and humpback whales.
If you wish to improve your winter
driving skills, this is your chance to
take part in the SAAB Ice Driving
Event. Under the guidance of expert
instructors, you’ll learn to drive on
ice and put ABS and stability con-
trol systems to the test.
For more details on your driving
adventure, see page 74.
www.icehotel.com

12 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
 OUTSTANDING
OUTDOOR
EQUIPMENT

HAGLÖFS LOGOTYPE

B A S I C L O G O T Y P E . TO B E U S E D A S N E G ATIVE WHITE ON A BLACK OR DARK BACKGROUND

CLOTHES • BACKPACKS • FOOTWEAR • SLEEPING BAGS

WWW.HAGLOFS.SE

PLEASE CONTACT HAGLÖFS IF YOU REQUIRE ASSISTA N C E O R A D V I C E W I T H T H E A P P L I C AT I O N O F T H E L O G O T Y P E

TEL +46 226 670 0 0 , FA X + 4 6 2 2 6 5 7 1 5 9

ICEHOTELL2009 8maj .indd 1 2009-05-11 08.21

Out of the
ordinary

ghty mountains, sit

uated 250
information
Nestling between mi
ctic Circle, Björkl ide n is just Please call for more
+46(0)980 641 00
km north of the Ar
it gets. During the win ter we ac- or visit
about as exotic as
.com
he s to
www.bjorkliden
levels wh o wis
ers of all
comondate adventur , hig alti-
h
ring Northern Lights
experience shimme
p natural snow.
tudes and metre dee

www.bjorkliden.com
 Current
Product development and finding new ways
of ‘upgrading’ and using ice are day-to-day tasks for Arne
Bergh, Artistic Director at ICEHOTEL.
“It’s a continuous process in close dialogue with other
artists in the ICEHOTEL Art & Design Group, other col-
leagues and partners. Ideas occur to me when I least

Who
expect it; when I’m about to fall asleep, when I’m
in the bath, or when I’m in the middle of a con-
versation about something totally unrelated.
Then, an idea has to be to turned upside-
down, inside-out and made to fit reality, so
it can stand up to real conditions. The ice

said
diamond is one such idea. I was wonde-
ring how we could find a way of turning
our pure, crystal-clear Torne River ice
into ice for drinks. Åke (Åke Lars-
son, ice architect and sculptor)
and I started bouncing ideas
back and forth. I began by
forming some ice into a

diamonds large ball. We soon realized

that an ice ball would be too
complicated to produce. We
are forever? were stumped. I simply had to
go back to the drawing table and
Name Arne Bergh think of something else. I like to
carve ice with a sharp knife, to shape
Age 60
it and to explore new possibilities. Sud-
Lives Poikkijärvi denly, it began to take shape in my hands
Educated – a glittering diamond with facets. I knew
immediately that it was right. But we were
University College
still faced with the same issues as with the ice
of Arts, Crafts ball: How could it be produced and presented?
& Design in Åke Larsson looked at the shape. He has a phe-
Stockholm, 1980 nomenal ability to simplify and reduce things. To-
gether, we tested different variants in an effort to find
an efficient process that would work in our production
facility. Pretty soon, we came up with a way. So far, the
process is manual, but machines are used.”

&
The process will be automated during the year to enable
efficient mass production. “The shape of the ice diamond has
Photo by photobigben.com

been adapted to fit a cocktail glass. It will be available in exclu-

sive, warm bars throughout the world. This means there will be
even more places where our guests and customers can experience
pure ice from the Torne River.”

the winner is...

In October 2008 ICEHOTEL won the award
for the ”Best experience in Sweden.” Trip Global
Award was handed out in connection with the Swe-
dish Travel and Tourism Gala. Behind the competi-
tion is the travel and tourism industry in Sweden in
cooperation with Visit Sweden. The price has been
voted by the French, German, English, Dutch and
Italian tour operators. Yngve Bergqvist CEO, ICE-
HOTEL accepted the prize.

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 15
Everything revolves around the

TorneRiver
It’s fall, and the temperature is dropping. Summer’s warmth
rises in vapour from the river. Now the water and the cold
begin a game of cat and mouse. The river seems to flow more
slowly each day. In late-October, the current gives in to the cold,
allowing it to seize the waves and stop them in their tracks. An
overwhelming sense of peace falls as the freezing begins.
At last, it is time for the river to rest.
Words by Ella Jonsson Photo by Hans-Olof Utsi

16 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 17
For natural reasons
For natural reasons, the Icehotel
does not want to contribute to the
melting of the world’s ice. Which is
why they choose Källmärkt® el –
Pure Energy from Sweden.
This is 100 percent renewable
electricity created by water, wind
and biofuels.

PURE ENERGY
FROM
GÄVLE ENERGI
www.gavleenergi.se
Photos by Hans-Olof Utsi, Anders Alm & photobigben.com
The ice field is divided into a grid Beneath the ice, the wild river rushes.
marking the size of the ice blocks.
EACH WINTER, ICEHOTEL borrows
several hundred tons of ice from the Torne
River. As soon as the ice freezes up, the sec-
tion of the river to be harvested is marked.
All winter the ice field is kept free of snow,
so that the ice can grow.
“Ice that grows in height is of no interest
to us. We want it to grow downwards. That’s
how we get the crystal-clear ice that has
become the signature of ICEHOTEL,” says
Alf Kero, who manages Ice Production. The
slow, natural freeze-in gives the Torne River
ice unique properties that cannot be created
artificially, for example, with common tap
water. Ice from the Torne River is perfectly
crystal-clear and completely free from bubb-
les and cracks. And, thanks to its pristine
natural source, 200 km north of the Arctic
Circle, it is also free of pollutants.This results
in high-quality ice that is ideal for sculpting
and building. Since it is natural and contains
no additives, it makes superb ice for drinks.
Winter harvest
“We harvest ice from mid-March until mid-
April. By then, the ice is about 80 centimet-
res thick. We use machines and custom-made
tools that have been specially designed for
our specific requirements. Each year, we
learn something new and refine the techno-
After harvest, the ice is stored at
-5°C until the coming fall.
Alf Kero, manager Ice Production.
logy successively. The operations at ICEHO-
TEL are constantly developing,” explains Alf.
The ice field is divided into a grid pattern
that marks the size of the ice blocks. Then,
the difficult task of sawing out and lifting the
heavy blocks from the river begins. Beneath
the ice, the wild river rushes. The tractors
must not be too heavy and the drivers have
to know exactly what they are doing, so the
ICEHOTEL Production staff
machines don’t end up in the frigid water.
Each ice block weighs two tonnes. The top
surface layer is sawn off. The ice is then sor-
ted in two classes: crystal-clear, for example,
for ice glasses and dishes, and ice that is vei-
led, which is used for sculpting. The ice is
then stored at about -5°C until the coming
autumn and will be used in next season’s ver-
sion of ICEHOTEL. A visit to the ice factory
and the waiting river, which seems to pause
briefly before being transformed into art and
architecture, is a remarkable experience.
Fine Torne River Water
ICEHOTEL borrows only a marginal amount
of water in frozen form each year from the
mighty Torne River. Watch the flowing river
for a minute, right where it passes Jukkas-
järvi, and the equivalent of the annual ‘water
loan’ for ICEHOTEL passes before your eyes.
Most of it is returned to the eco-cycle when
spring arrives and ICEHOTEL melts silently
back into the river again.
“The drawings and ideas for the next year’s
ICEHOTEL are usually ready by January. Ice
Production works in close consultation with
the architects and artists. At harvest time,
the artists are curious about the quality of
the ice. We can see that the ice has different
properties, depending on temperature and
ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 19

ICEHOTEL Production transforms ice into dishes, glasses and ice rings.
The Ice church under construction.
20 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
Photos by Lars Lindh & photobigben.com
precipitation. It definitely varies from year to
year. Long periods with temperatures below
minus twenty degrees are favourable for the
raw material,” says Alf. From the shore, clo-
se by the magnificent ICEHOTEL, visitors
from all corners of the world watch in ama-
zement as the ice is harvested. Perhaps only
then do they fathom the magnitude of this
incredible project. To first harvest and store
huge quantities of ice, and then build a hotel
filled with fabulous art and design the follo-
wing winter is indeed a marvel. It’s surreal,
to say the least. And, most amazingly, this is
no one-off project. It is a vital and creative
enterprise, with a new hotel each winter
for two decades now, and always with a new
theme, new art and new design. ICEHOTEL
presence is now world-wide, thanks to ice-
bars that offer a cold and fleeting pure taste
of Lapland. One might say that this makes the
Torne River the world’s longest. As the river
slowly freezes, the building start approaches.
In mid-November, specially selected interna-
tional artists and designers arrive. They will
decorate this year’s version of ICEHOTEL.
For some, this is the first time they will work
in snow and ice. Others have been with the
project since the early-1990s. This blend of
neophytes and veterans keeps the art form
fresh and vital. The ambition level is high and
the creativity is almost palpable. Finally, the
river will show what it has to offer. Finally,
the ice will be transformed into art.
 Photo: Tomas Utsi | www.naturfoto.se
Kiruna
Municipality
congratulates
ICEHOTEL
on their 20th anniversary
Since the very start ICEHOTEL has created attractive travel
opportunities to Kiruna municipality. With their frosty lodging,
the Ice Globe Theatre, world famous ICEBAR concept
and well-renowned art, created from local resources only,
they’ve managed to put Jukkasjärvi on the world-map. With
little means and by believing so strongly in that one’s own
everyday life is extraordinary to others, ICEHOTEL has
become one of Sweden’s strongest brands.

www.kiruna.se
 Our heating
makes the world
cooler

Even ICEHOTEL needs heating. For offices, restaurants, kitchens,

laundries, cottages…
But few other businesses in the world are in greater need of a cold
environment. So it’s only natural that ICEHOTEL has chosen to use
NIBE ground source heat pumps for all heating needs for more than
10 years now.
Our heat pumps find heat even in the deep frozen lands of Jukkasjärvi
and at the bottom of the Torne River. Not by magic, but by using a
technology that is dominating new heating installations in Sweden
today. Ground source heat pumps give us all a source of renewable
energy that is available anywhere. To anyone.
The heat pumps make the hotel warm and the ground cold. Just as the
people at ICEHOTEL want it.
By using NIBE heat pumps ICEHOTEL has so far saved about hundreds
of thousands of Euro and hundreds of tons of CO2. That’s a big contri-
bution to keeping the world cooler.
An important task when your business is made up of ice.
Read more about the cooler way to heat at www.nibe.eu

NIBE Heating
Box 14, 285 21 Markaryd, Sweden
Tel 0433 - 73 000
www.nibe.eu
Photos by Maria Sirviö & photobigben.com
Icehotel melts slowly in the warm spring sun and will soon be
one again with Torne River.
Melts back to the source
The building process is intensive and ex-
citing. The ice and snow we use are natural
raw materials that are completely subjected
to the whims of weather and temperature.
When ICEHOTEL opens in early-Decem-
ber, construction is still in progress. In recent
years, we’ve had more and more requests
from guests wishing to take a closer look at
the building process. They can take part in
special guided tours, where we explain the
process and our eco-cycle approach, and
they can watch the artists at work,” explains
Alf. By year-end, as peak season approaches,
ICEHOTEL is complete. Several intensive
months lie ahead. In the ice church, coup-
les will exchange vows. Guests will sleep in
sub-zero suites graced with fabulous works
of art. Exotic meals will be enjoyed after
days of snowy adventure. New products
will be launched and corporate events will
take place. Many languages will be spoken in
tiny Jukkasjärvi, 200 km north of the Arc-
tic Circle. By the time ICEHOTEL closes in
mid-April, 60,000 guests will have entered
the world of ice. They will have experienced,
first hand, one of the marvels of our times. It
is a world wonder that keeps us ever mindful
of the great cycle of nature. When the warm
spring sun returns and the days grow longer,
the snow and ice begin their slow retreat.
Tiny rivulets of clear meltwater trickle back
towards the source and become one again
with the mighty Torne River. Summer is
knocking at the door and the river turns to
new tasks. For ICEHOTEL, all that remains
is to offer humble thanks for the water it has
borrowed. And next year, a new ICEHOTEL
will be born.
Positively
co2-
“Simply by “The management at Icehotel
has taken a strategic decision: by 2015, at
the latest, we will produce more energy than
raising the we use in our operations. Quite simply, we
will be CO2-negative,” says Dan Björk, Mar-
level of keting Manager of Icehotel. Dan says that
careful use and conservation of natural re-
sources has always been a high priority for
awareness, Icehotel. “I think this is a consequence of
us working so close to nature. We are part of
a company
an eco-cycle. The Torne River is our source,
and the surrounding country, here in Lap-
land, is unique in Europe and the world. We
can realize wish to protect it,” says Dan.
The first step has been to train all person-
a 20%
nel, in all departments, throughout the orga-
nization. This has been done with the aid of
Gävle Energi, a close partner in the project.
energy “Simply by raising the level of awareness, a
company can realize a 20% energy savings.
savings”
It’s a matter of simple measures, like swit-
ching off computers after work each day.
Once the ball is rolling, everyone wants to
pitch in. Our own personnel have contributed
many energy-saving ideas,” says Dan.
Currently, the entire Icehotel infrastructure
in under review. This includes, for example, all
building structures, which are surveyed to en-
sure minimal energy loss, and power distribu-
tion boxes, which are inspected to ensure that
they are properly connected.
“The next step will be to invest in facili-
ties for producing our own renewable-source
energy. Whether this will be wind, solar,
water-source heat or something completely
different, we do not yet know. Icehotel
guests contribute to the production of rene-
wable-source energy. We are unique in this
regard. But we hope others will copy our en-
vironmental approach; we all stand to gain,”
concludes Dan Björk.
80% of the buildings at Icehotel are now
heated with ground-source heat. Icehotel’s
environment program is conducted in part-
nership with Gävle Energi, which supplies
renewable-source energy under the Källmärkt
brand name. Find out how you, too, can make
a difference!
Dan Björk, Marketing
Manager at Icehotel.
ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 23
 Flakes
A surprising interior
Reindeer herds stampede through the
restaurant and the Northern Lights
shimmer over the large dining
room. Timbered walls merge with
exciting, modern details when
old and new are interwoven.
“The idea of saving and re-
using objects in a balance of
old and new features is right
for the times. The northern
appreciation for utility stems
from an inherited environ-
mental awareness that has
emerged from a life lived in a
harsh environment,” says inte-
rior designer Karina Björk. The in-
terior has been shaped and inspired
by closeness to the dramatic natural
surroundings. “I have been inspired
by the unique and exotic in everyday
life,” says Karina. Furniture from Fritz
Hansen has been combined with items
by local craftsmen.

p ROXY
www.arkbjork.com

Few people are aware of that ice is present in Jukkasjärvi year-
round. But last fall we got an exceptionally early request from
Quicksilver Inc. that was planning a shoot for their brand Roxy
a surf and snowboard inspired line for women. We let the Roxy
crew use part of our Ice production hall for a couple of days. The
snow wear shots by Swedish photographer Daniel Blom featured
famous snowboard champions such as Amber Stackhouse, Erin
Comstock, Torah Bright, Kjersti Buaas and Vanessa Colletta. The
images were later published in Roxy´s worldwide 2009 winter
catalogue, ads and backdrops in shop windows. www.roxy.com

muddus-Hjortron
Something sweet after dinner? Savour the
ICEHOTEL SHOP offers pro-
ducts of the highest quality. Here, you’ll flavours of Lapland, captured in exquisite
find this season’s outdoor leisure wear, pralines from Muddus Hjortron.
as well as speciality foods from northern
www.muddus-hjortron.se
Sweden.
❄ ICEHOTEL Taste of Lapland Collection
includes lingenberry juice, tea, and cloud-
berry jam and marmalade.
❄ Garments are from famous brands such
as Fjällräven, SOS and Haglöfs.
❄ The shop has a wide range of attractive
gift items and jewellery. Don’t miss your
chance to take a piece of Lapland home
with you. You can even pre-order the gar-
ments and equipment you need from our
shop before you arrive. Collect your order
when you check in.
www.icehotel.com

24 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
 www.tylo.com

The Tylö Sauna ix210s combines sauna, shower and steam bath in one and the same wellness solution.

Wellness in a box.
After a cold day outside, the unique pleasure you get from Tylö is one
of the best presents you can give yourself. At Tylö we have years of

2,8m
experience in producing quality products for saunas, steam baths and
2
<
showers. Our new product range – Impression – combines all this and
brings it to a new level of wellness, which leaves no one unmoved.

wellness
All our products are manufactured in Sweden in a well balanced combi-
nation of shape, function and latest technology.

Tylö Impression

S A U N A S S H O W E R S S T E A M B A T H S
 McBride / Fotograf Jörgen Reimer
Location: Storulvåvägen, Jämtland, Sweden.

Freezing? Why? Stay warm with a base layer of fine merino wool in a terry knit.
The terry loops trap air between the skin and the clothing to create a warm insulating
layer. Wool also has a natural ability to carry away moisture and perspiration.
Woolpower is manufactured in Östersund in northern Sweden and the thermal
garments are used for work, sports and leisure, and by people who would simply
rather not be freezing cold. Using the material Ullfrotté Original, Woolpower has been
manufactured since 1972.

www.woolpower.se Thermal undergarments made in Sweden.

A tearful
meeting of magnetite and ice
“The two materials are so totally different to
work with. Ice is pure and transparent; the
material has an intrinsic lightness. Magnetite,
on the other hand, is heavy and much denser.
Working in magnetite is a hard and dirty job.”
says designer Sofi Ruotsalainen.
Words by Ella Jonsson Photos by Anders Alm

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 27
 The pure, crystalline and
transitory ice meets the heavy, black
and permanent magnetite. Slowly,
the moulds melt away, revealing two
figures: a man and a woman. Wat-
ching the process, seeing how te-
ars seem to flow from the eyes and
stream down the faces, is magical. Is
it from the pain of being freed? Or
is it the joy of finally meeting each
other? Behind this remarkable en-
counter of ice and magnetite are Sofi
Ruotsalainen, designer and artist, and
designer Mikael “Nille” Nilsson. Both
have worked as sculptors at Ice-
hotel for 10 years, and sculpted
ice installations and ice art in various
bars throughout the world as well as at
Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi.

Sofi Ruotsalainen
Age just old enough to understand something about this great life (44).
How and when did you start
Birthplace Kiruna. Home Kiruna (a circle that may not yet be complete...)
collaborating?
Drive Subaru, Lynx and a Husqvarna brushcutter. Favourite food pork. Like being Sofi: “The artwork at Icehotel is a collabora-
happy. Forest and water make me happy. Dislike unresolved problems. Read reflec- tive effort. We discuss ideas and help each other
tions on the self, life and the world, and pulp fiction. Look at the inside, life and the to find solutions to different problems. Nille and
I have been working together for about a year and
world. Favourite artists William Turner, Bård Breivik and Anders Rönnlund. a half. The first time was during the 2007/2008
Lapland is rich in contrasts and, for me, the pulse of life. season, when we built several suites together.
Nille elaborates: “Artistic collaboration at Ice-
hotel sometimes has to do with whether a cer-
tain design will work or not, depending on the
material characteristics. Here, experienced ice
sculptors cooperate with artists who are encoun-
tering the material for the first time. This is a
young art form that is constantly developing.”

What is it like to work as an ice

artist at Icehotel?
“Oh, it’s a real perk,” exclaims Sofi.
Nille:“It’s incredibly free, fun and enriching.
This is a very special, creative environment. And
there is an unlimited supply of the material –
ice. I think it allows an artist to be more adven-
turous, to dare to venture into the unknown. And
it’s very inspiring to meet other artists from all
over the world.”
”We realised that ice could be an alternative mould. From what I know, this experiment was the
first meeting between ice and magnetite.”

28 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
Tell us how the two of you col-
laborate, practically.
“We generate ideas together, and then I make
rough sketches,” explains Sofi. “Nille is good at
the technique and knows the material, and he
usually knows at the conceptual stage how the
project is going to turn out. When he has figured
out the technical aspects, we complete the sculp-
ture or installation together.”

This is a meeting of ice and mag-

netite. Explain how you came up
with the idea?
Nille: “The magnetite sculptures are moulded.
We were discussing moulds when the idea to use
ice came up. Technically, a difficult part of the job
is to get the mould to release.”
Sofi: “We realized that ice could be an alterna-
tive mould. We understood that our manual work
would be visible on the sculpture and that the ice
would slowly melt and reveal the magnetite.”

The melting process alone seems

like an art installation in it-
self? .
Sofi: “Yes, watching the ice melt is magical.
There are two sculptures: a man and a woman. To
see them chained close together in the ice and to
watch them being slowly released was a powerful
experience.”
Nille: “If we’d known how visually interesting
it was going to be, we would have filmed it, of
course. The magnetite wept inside the ice, and
tears rolled down the cheeks. By the light of the
Midnight Sun, it was magnificent.”

Ice and magnetite make for a

strong contrast. What were
your thoughts about the mate-
rials?
Nille: “It was the first time I had worked with mag-
netite. I have to admit I was nervous about the per-
manence; knowing that this sculpture would last,
if not for ever, at least for a very long time. Ice,
on the other hand, gives you new chances again
and again”
Sofi: “Yes, that’s true. The two materials are so
totally different to work with. Ice is pure and
transparent; the material has an intrinsic light-
ness. Magnetite, on the other hand, is heavy and
much denser. Working in magnetite is a hard and
dirty job.”

What are your plans for the

future?
Sofi: “Now, in summer 2009, I’ll probably conti-
nue working with magnetite.” ”The performance was nervous working with magnetite, knowing that this sculpture would last
Nille: “Yes, it looks like Sofi and I will be doing for ever and ever”
a joint project with Åke Larsson, who is the
architect at Icehotel. It will be a replica of an
ice sculpture, an organic square, which we did Mikael ”Nille” Nilsson
in the winter. As a designer and artist, it’s a real
advantage to constantly develop and to work in AgE 43 and still promising. Birthplace Stockholm. Home Boden. Drive Volvo.
two natural, locally available materials. To con- Favourite food seasonal; right now, lots of asparagus.
tinuously vitalize these art forms is another plus.
The conditions and the environment in Jukkas-
Like my children. Dislike myself. Read computer literature, self-studies in CAD /
järvi are unique.” CAM. Look at the computer screen. Favourite artists I like Andy Goldsworthy,
but I have no real favourites. Lapland is BIG.

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 29
 Flakes
Scandinavia
is a cold place
to live and cold
temperatures
mean there`s
a need to keep
warm. There
is also so-
mething about
the contrast be-
tween warm and
cold that has always
fascinated us human
beings; something that
makes life a more inten-
sive experience. Over the years
Tylö has created many sumptuous bathing facilities at the ICE-
HOTEL. Their worldwide acclaimed products accentuate one
simple truth: the opportunity to unwind and recharge your bat- www.sos-sportswear.com
teries is a pleasure that has nothing to do with extravagance.
On the contrary, it`s a fundamental human need, a necessity we , SOS,
should allow ourselves to enjoy every day. r o f S weden al,
S p o rt s
wea c tion
f u n o n.
www.tylo.se
u s with r t s fa s h i
o spo
onym and
is syn rful ski
c o lo
u ducts
s u p e r i o r p ro
c a l ly
Techni ds .
to to ug h de m an
th at stan d up

Inspired
by the Ice Age
Fritz Hansen and ICEHOTEL think
along the same lines when it comes to
good design. The approach is based on
an understanding and expression of the
client’s image and identity. It is a matter
of a pure design language, finding a per-
sonality, and high quality. Kasper Salto
has created the chair Ice for The Re-
public of Fritz Hansen. It is a modern,
stackable chair with a futuristic look.
Design-wise, it is pure and simple, just
as the name Ice suggests. The chair is In April 2009, a crew ”I would like to thank you for
of seven visited ICEHOTEL for a most chilly pho- giving us the opportunity to photograph our
available in several colours and has att- to shoot. They were shooting a line of swimwear swimsuit concept for the premiere issue of Virtu
racted much attention internationally. images for the brand new Greek magazine “Virtu” Magazine.com in your amazing art suites and
– an online luxury fashion and design magazine. your beautiful hotel. I would like to extend our
You’ll find it at ICEHOTEL. The premiere issue, that launched June 1st this thanks to all of your staff for being so helpful and
www.fritzhansen.com year, was to focus on eco-friendliness, which is welcoming with our crew. It was an unbelievable
why ICEHOTEL was chosen for location. With experience for us and an excellent addition to our
every online edition of the magazine Virtu will feature of Stockholm and SAS Airlines for the
save 1200 trees. The magazine was launched launch of the magazine.”
on June 5th to coincide with the celebration of Pamela Averkiadis
World Environment Day. Design Without Boundaries
www.virtu-magazine.com

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 31
 From the
High-altitude gastronomy. Västerbotten mazarin with
prosciutto crudo at Låkta lodge.

Sunshine and morning coffee at Låkta in a sparkling

winterland.

The journey starts here. Above the snow line on the glaciers, the water begins its journey towards Jukkasjärvi.
Pure, icy meltwater trickles down in rivulets that merge in a mountain stream – Låktajokken, a tributary of the
Torne River. Join us on a dizzying adventure along the water’s course.

Treat yourself to a little pleasure. Sweden’s ‘highest’ bar,

at 1,228 m above sea level.

32 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
Source to Jukkas

A trek from the glacial source of the crystal-clear water

to Jukkasjärvi’s shore will put even the most seasoned
outdoorsman to the test. It is a journey through the seasons,
full of adventure, in natural surroundings that can scarcely
be captured in words and images. This dizzying experience
for all of the senses is one big life-enriching moment.
Words by Ronny Olovsson Photos by Andreas Lundberg

Warm sunlight beaming down from a
clear blue sky makes the snowy lands-
cape sparkle. Here we are, by the gla-
ciers and streams, where the water’s
journey to Jukkasjärvi begins. Water
drips from icicles and snow melts on
sun-warmed outcrops. The crystal-
clear, icy water trickles down the slo-
pes in rivulets, seeps through stone
rubble and vanishes in cracks in the
rock, finally gathering in a single cold,
shimmering mountain stream. This
water carries a secret. We will now fol-
low the water’s course.
But let’s rewind, return to the start,
and begin at Björkliden.
Day 1. A journey through the
seasons
Late-summer is on the air as we wrestle our
backpacks into place. A light wind blows be-
neath an intensely blue sky. Jonas Larsson,
30, from Gällivare, looks on contently.
“It was skiing that really brought me to the
mountains. Then, I just stayed for the sum-

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 33
 mer, for the kayaking and fishing. You know
how it is.”
We distribute some gear, camera equip-
ment, vegetables and other items. Terje
Pedersen, 42, from Arjeplog, loads up his
backpack while repelling friendly gibes from
22-year-old Luleå resident Anna Gjörup.
David Larson, 24, from Gällivare, is joined
by our little expedition’s canine companion
Gandalf, who skips about, gleefully greeting
everyone. Eight happy wanderers and a dog.
In the lead is guide Jesper Erkki, 34, from
nearby Poikijärvi, who takes to the high-
country trail with the sure-footed team of
Nils Åslund, 28, and Helena Axelsson, 26, in
close pursuit.
Coffee and laughter. Terje, Nils and Anna rest and The path cuts through heather, lichen and
relax along the way.
small shrubs. A rough-legged hawk glides
We follow the clear water in a stunning scenery.
34 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
30 metres above us, scanning the ground
for prey.
Soon, we are wandering along Rak-
kasjåkka, whose chalk-white stones create a
surreal backdrop against the eerily clear wa-
ter. We move through magnificent scenery
that has just begun the barely perceptible au-
tumn colour shift from light green to gold,
burning orange and deepest red. Vivid, satu-
rated colours. A stunning mosaic of vegeta-
tion. Where we walk, we spot tufts of blu-
eberry bushes, which provide an all-natural
snack along the way. A brief pause to grab a
few handfuls and our mouths are filled with
that familiar round sweetness.
When we reach the massif, the landscape
changes successively. We cross small snowy
plains, ramble over rubble fields and negotia-
te boulders. The transition is gradual, confir-
ming that we are nearing our goal; the glacial
source. Switching from trek mode to climb,
we advance up the steep slope of Kåppat-
jåkka, an ascent that is reminiscent of a high-
alpine excursion. Things get technical and
we have to clamber carefully up via crevices
in stages, the rock face dropping steeply to
a scree slope.
There is no immediate danger , but
the situation is just precarious enough to
silence the hitherto boisterous party. The
climb demands our concentration and pre-
cision. One wrong move or loss of balance
and one of us could tumble 30 feet down the
jagged rock face.
The sound of boots stamping for a foothold,
the clattering of rock chips, a few tumbling
cobbles, a groan of exertion as someone hea-
ves themselves up over an obstacle. Boots
find a new grip, and all is calm again.
One by one, our party assembles beyond
the edge of the precipice.
During our ascent, we realize, smiling,
that we have passed autumn and reached
winter. Above us are several snowfields, and
over the ridge the clouds are swirling in. It
is now late afternoon and without me no-
ticing it, the clear, blue sky has started to
crowd with heavy, graphite-grey clouds.
I have been focusing on my footholds and
have not realized that we are walking into
the first snowfall of the season.
Cold water from the jokk refreshes.
Laughter from
the illuminated
tent is
carried away
on an
autumn breeze
sweeping
through the
woodland.
A few of us try to catch the first snowfla-
kes in our mouths. We have completed most
of our ascent and can now proceed down
towards Låkta, the highest, altitude-wise, of
Sweden’s mountain lodges.
This snow will now refill nature’s reservoir
and eventually flow on through an ingenious
eco-cycle via the mighty Torne River.
Up here, on the ancient glaciers and the
perpetually snow-covered fields, it all starts
again. So, when will the snow that is now
falling reach Jukkasjärvi? When will it have
melted and reached Torneträsk via mountain
streams, and then freeze to ice again in the ri-
ver, to be eventually harvested in blocks that
will be raised to build ICEHOTEL?
We are in good company, a happy gang, I
think, as we stumble into the warmth of
ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 35
the mountain lodge, where Pär Rådström
and Marie Lidström meet us with broad
smiles.
It’s a sensational pleasure to pull off your
boots and exchange them for slippers, and
after installing yourself in one of the upstairs
rooms, laughingly sum up the day over a beer
in the sauna.

Tales are told of rough-and-tough ad-

venturers, local he-men, and book titles are
swapped. Joe Simpson’s fantastic Touching
the Void and Jon Krakauer’s Into Thin Air are
reviewed as usual before we wash, dress in
lighter attire, and make our way to the dining-
room. Once there, the aroma of a magnificent Conquering your fear on the high-wire course is in every sense a natural high.
Låkta meal unleashes the hunger we have been
carrying within us.
Here, at 1,228 metres above sea level, we
sit down to dinner. And we can’t take our
eyes off the starter dish: a potato waffle top-
ped with Kalix löjrom and garnished with
crème fraiche and red onion. Another ele-
gantly bubbling glass of André Clouet Grand
Reserve will undoubtedly give us a good
start to a perfect ending of our first day.
Mountaineering with champagne. Why not?
The lodge, which was completed in 1939,
was built by Sweden’s national railway com-
pany, Statens Järnvägar. It was a complicated
project and all material had to be hauled by
horses up the slopes, when the worst winter
in living memory raged, in 1939.
The waffles have become Låkta’s signature
dish. The Låkta waffle is renowned among Before the final challenge, friends offer encouragement.
tourists who have visited the area. But not
only waffles are served.

Five courses later, the group is grin-

ning and replete after a meal of Västerbot-
ten mazarin with prosciutto crudo, Samuel
Adams Boston lager, roast of reindeer ac-
companied by flavourful shiraz, lingenberry
caramel pie with cognac whipped cream,
dessert wine, Låkta’s own chocolate truffles,
all crowned by a glass of fine cognac. A plea-
sant tiredness takes over.

Day 2. Waking up in heaven

“Come on, the weather’s perfect,” exclaims
an eager Jesper, and we tumble out of bed,
half-asleep, pull on fleece sweaters, pants and
slippers and shuffle out into a new world. The
glittering snow, a warming sun and the sharp
morning light bring everything into focus. We
A proud Gandalf returns with a ptarmigan after the thrill of the hunt.
devour porridge and sandwiches, and then

36 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
Nils keeps his head clear.

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 37
 Our happy gang heads for the rapids.
From left: Anna, Nils, Jesper, Jonas, Helena and Terje.
A relaxing time with hot coffee.
38 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
take our coffee outside to enjoy the moment.
It’s one of those magical moments that you
want to hold deep in your memory, to be re-
vived on rainy days when you’re pounding the
pavement from one obligation to the next.We
are here, now, and it’s incredible.
Nils flips out and does a handstand, right
there in the snow. We laugh. That’s how it
feels; dizzying, magnificent, liberating.
Soon, we are following Låktajokken. The
stream, born of dripping icicles and rivulets
trickling down the rock face and running
between stones beneath the snow, grows
slowly as a myriad of tiny tributaries merge.
We hear the gurgling brook and the
sound of our own steps, a lone merlin
soars overhead, and we enjoy and rejoice
communally.
Anna: “Regardless of what you do, the gran-
deur is what strikes you every time. Some-
how, it’s more about seeing than doing. I
don’t know. I never get tired of it; a day like
this is just as incredible every time you get
the chance to experience it. It’s addictive.”
Moving at a flowing pace, almost at one with
the stream, we stroll leisurely along, mostly
in silence, just being in the here and now of
this wonderful experience.We settle down to
a fortifying lunch beside a waterfall. Reach-
ing the treeline, we are surrounded by bus-
hes and short deciduous trees. We are in the
valley and lake landscape again. Pausing on
our trek, we turn to the hunt; a hunt for the
much-prized arctic ptarmigan. Our guide,
Jesper Erkki, is joined by Peter Löfgren and
his bird dogs, with which our own Gandalf
tentatively makes acquaintance.
Peter Löfgren: “The dog covers a wide area,
moving windward, so that it picks up the
scent of the bird. If it catches the scent, it
stops and points. A transmitter starts to beep
when the dog stands still, so I can then walk
the last little way with the dog and hopefully
get into a good shooting position before the
bird takes flight.”
The hunt turns into a frantic chase for the
beeping dog collar. Sometimes, it’s a false
alarm, when Kasper has just stopped to drink
or points where a bird has recently been.
But soon, a flock of ptarmigan is raised, ta-
king off noisily in all directions. To those of
us who had only just been listening with ba-
ted breath, the boom of a shotgun comes as a
surprise, and the whole thing is over in two
or three seconds.
Glad and eager, Kasper retrieves the bird
and dashes proudly up to us with it in his
mouth.
Jesper sits down to prepare the birds for the
evening’s campsite dinner while the rest of us
wander down to the shore of Låktajärvi to do
a little char fishing. But the angler’s patience
gives way to hunger and, without catching
any fish, we return to camp and are greeted
by a set table in the main tent. We are not
wanting for much.
Soon, the talk runs high . Outside,
the red glow of an evening sun illumina-
tes the hills. Darkness falls slowly and the
tent looks like a giant firefly against a blue-
black night sky.
Now our party has thawed comfortably.
Jesper entertains us with a patented party
trick, bending his thumb backwards. Playful
gibes are interspersed with remarkable sto-
ries. Anna, in a broad American accent, refer-
ring to snowboard legend Terje Haakonsen,
imitates the Alaska-bound snowboarders in
the film First Descent.
“Terje’s gonna be there. He’s an older guy,
but still one of the craziest,” she says, as the
tent explodes in laugher and Terje bows
approvingly.
Day 3. Kayaking and insight
Waking to the sound of light rain against the
tent, I turn in my sleeping-bag and dose off
again. A little while later, I hear that seve-
ral others are waking up. Jesper and Peter
are chatting. Clattering pots and the aroma
of brewing coffee tell me breakfast is about
to be served. That’s good enough for me. I
unzip my sleeping-bag, and dressing, I feel
a slight stiffness in my left knee from the
climbing. After breakfast, we get ready. The
kayaks, the lakes and gang of fun-loving padd-
lers are waiting. We drag the kayaks over the
bog, down to the shore of Låktajärvi. Nils is
already paddling full speed, with Helena in
close pursuit. Well out on the calm surface,
it is an extraordinary feeling to be gliding si-
lently along so close to the deep, clear water
we have followed together. By now, we’ve
put some distance behind us and the massif,
gaining a different perspective on the scenery
through which we hiked and hunted yester-
day. The group is spread out as we paddle
down the lake. Jesper, who has a fishing rod,
tries again to catch the elusive char. I ask if he
has any special tricks up his sleeve.“A net,” he
replies with a cunning smile.
Anna shares her thoughts on what
brings her back to the high country time and
time again.
“I had no idea I was a wilderness girl until
the first time I came here. I feel I have grown
from the experiences I’ve had here. It has
given me greater self-confidence, and I feel
stronger and more self-assured from what I
have learned.”
We paddle on. The valley landscape is full
of ponds and streams, opening out further
downstream on the enormous Torneträsk,
oblong and majestic. The gigantic natural
reservoir discharges into the Torne River,
which flows down towards Jukkasjärvi.
All the high-alpine meltwater gathers and
merges here before continuing the slow
journey to the coast. We arrive at the rustic
village of Jukkasjärvi, the site of an ancient
marketplace and church. We pay a visit to the
Nutti’s reindeer paddock and Sami open-air
museum near ICEHOTEL. Here, there is a
large cot tent for guests, complete with a bar
and fire pit, and there are several buildings
and cultural artefacts. Approaching the pad-
dock gate, we hear the characteristic clat-
tering of reindeer hooves. The antlers are a
bit intimidating, but our group is eventually
inside the paddock, feeding the reindeer.
Afterwards, we visit Jukkasjärvi’s rustic
church, where the colourful relief of an in-
credible, carved wooden altarpiece imme-
diately catches the group’s eye. It relates in
frank detail the redemption of a ‘hussy’ and
a ‘boozer’.
So, what could be more appropriate than a
visit, forthwith, to the spa for a beer, a sauna,
a splash in the hot tub and a dip in the river?
Then, in high spirits and feeling very well-
scrubbed, the party makes its way over to ICE-
HOTEL Old Homestead for dinner. ‘Terje’s
gonna be there’, of course. Dinner turns out
to be a culinary triumph. The arctic char is the
best I’ve eaten in a long, long time.
Day 4. Foaming rapids and vertigo
It seems natural that our journey should cul-
minate in a rough-and-tumble, rock-and-roll
river ride that sends us splashing and care-
ening down the roaring rapids. White-water
rafting. After all, our purpose has been to
follow the water’s course. Paddling towards
the first rapids, the anticipation is electric.
The mounting roar in the distance tells us
we will soon be catapulted down the rushing
current through treacherous rocks and swir-
ling waves. Not fear, per se, but expectation.
A gnawing, irrational feeling of ‘maybe we
shouldn’t be doing this’. But we do, anyway
the adrenalin rush comes right away when
the raft is thrown over the first wave into the
rapids and down into the boiling inferno. Jes-
per shouts his commands, and hanging over
the edge of the raft, we paddle like mad in an
effort to subjugate the enormous force.
With expert precision, Jesper steers us
right into the first giant wave, which pum-
mels us with an icy, wet cascade. Whooping
and laughing, we have no choice but to con-
tinue paddling frenetically. Borne on the
back of the massive beast, we rush onward.
“Paddle harder, and maybe we’ll catch up to
ICEHOTEL,” quips Jesper.
But there is an element of truth in what he
says, as the melting hotel is now returning
to the river. However, our arms are proba-
bly too weak. Hitting one set of rapids af-
ter another, we keep paddling and getting
sprayed with the frigid water. We enter a
pool, Jesper stands up, shouts ‘lifesaver’
and belly-flops into the river.
A few impromptu bathers follow his lead
until most of the gang is bobbing around in
the calm, flowing water. As it transpires, this
is where we get off. Dry clothing, coffee and
sandwiches are waiting.
ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 39
 vinter. Photo: Malcolm Hanes/Johnér
www.visitsweden.com

Beneath the snow and ice a different Sweden slumbers

– one that also bids you a warm welcome.
 Our next adrenalin-steeped adventure is
the high-wire course.
In a grove overlooking a bay with reeds,
what at first appears to be a network of ca-
bles and gadgets linking a couple of masts and
trees soon turns out to be a nerve-racking
test of skill and exertion.
We climb higher for each minute and,
looking down, a giddy sensation threatens
to send us crashing to the ground. Terje is
first. Anna soon follows.
Finally, we are all up in the unusual laby-
rinth, making our way higher and higher.
Via hanging ropes, over nets and wobbly
logs, ever higher. The unavoidable finale is a
hair-raising, bungee-like swing out over the
water. A hop is accompanied by screams,
laughter and, finally, a cry of relief.
Anna is elated after her jump. “I didn’t think
I was an adrenalin junky. It’s fun to feel so
brave and daring.”
Jesper recalls:
“When I was guiding a German group, there
were two older middle-aged men who were
more afraid than anyone, but both managed to
climb all the way up, half panic-stricken.
When one of them reached the last platform,
he shut his eyes and hugged the pole.
‘Wait a bit,’ he called. Then, he stood there
for five minutes, frozen on the spot. But even
he jumped.”
Now, we head for a large cot tent on the
other side of a small pine heath, where Peter
is waiting with dinner: whitefish roe for star-
ters, followed by a substantial souvas hash.
Nils is moved by everything we have expe-
rienced, and his comment sums up what each
of us has been thinking:
“It feels like we’ve just done one thing right
after the other. I’ve hardly had a chance to
think.”
After coffee , we gather for the final
activity. In turn, we have to climb a woo-
den ramp, and then fall backwards into
the arms of the rest of the group. It is high
enough to sustain serious injury, were it
not for the group.
I’m the last to go. As my heals lose their
grip and I fall perilously backwards, a
thought crosses my mind.
This is how life should be lived.

The carved wooden altarpiece dominates the church in Jukkasjärvi.

A culinary triumph to enjoy. Relaxation and soothing relief for sore muscles in the sauna and
hot tub. Spirits are high.

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 41
Art & Design Group
The desire to make ICE-
HOTEL a showcase for high-class
art and design has been implicit
right from the start. That’s the big
difference between the original and
the many copies that have appea-
red throughout the world over the
years. Each winter, professional
artists from near and far come to
Jukkasjärvi to create in snow and
ice. For some, this is their first opp-
ortunity to work in these materials.
Others are experienced ice artists.
Arne Bergh is the Artistic Direc-
tor at ICEHOTEL. Each season, he
and his colleagues in the ICEHO-
TEL Art & Design Group tend to
breathe a sigh of relief when the
artists have been chosen for the
coming winter. Arne explains the
selection process.
“We receive applications from ar-
tists and designers from all around
the world. The final date for app-
lications is in mid-July. Last year,
around 150 artists applied, which
is about the usual number. It’s a
good number, since it gives us a
very broad selection. Competition
is tough. After the vacation period,
usually in mid-August, the jury
gathers to make their picks.”
What is the selection
process? “All entries are unpack-
ed and the sketches are displayed
without the artists’ names being
disclosed. Then, the jury members
assess the sketches and place their
votes. The chosen works must repre-
sent a broad variety, with both figura-
tive and abstract expression.
There must be something for eve-
ryone. The group has many years
of experience and can determine
whether the material – ice and
snow – is suitable for the proposed
design concepts.”
The ICEHOTEL Art & Design Group selects this season’s artists. Juryn members: Arne Bergh, Åke Larsson, Mikael ”Nille” Nilsson, Tjåsa Gusfors, Sofi Routsalainen.
42 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
Art Suite. Getting Cold Feet by Ben Rousseau & INSA. England. Photo by photobigben.com
How many artists did
you choose last year? “It
was 27 artists but most of them
worked in pairs. Their work adorned
15 of ICEHOTEL’s Art Suites. The
other suites featured work by mem-
bers of the Art & Design Group.”
Where did last year’s ar-
tists come from? “Those tra-
velling the furthest were from Chile,
Japan and USA. Then, we had artists
from England, Spain, Germany and
Russia. We were very excited by the
fabulous ideas and expressions from
former Eastern Block countries: Lat-
via, Macedonia and Bulgaria.”
Are there any dominant
tendencies or forms of
expression? “Last year, we saw
many organic shapes, with a lot of
meandering and winding forms.”
You mentioned the va-
riety of experienced and
novice ice artists. What
does that mean for this
art form? “The ‘old’ ice artists
are mentors for those working in the
material for the first time. That mix
vitalizes the ice art. Over the years,
we’ve seen what can happen when
daring novices take on a new ma-
terial. The art form is continually
renewed; new things happen every
year. Even though we’ve amassed
quite a lot of experience by now, it’s
still new territory.”
Experimentation
When will this year’s
version of ICEHOTEL be
flourishes
ready? “We build in stages. Half
of the artists arrive middle of No-
vember and the rest join us begin-
ning of December. ICEHOTEL will
be inaugurated on December 10th, in sub-zero
temperatures
but the build won’t be completed
until the end of the year.”
Sketch by Swedish artist Benny Ekman of
his Art Suite “Get Bad” at ICEHOTEL 2009
and on the left, the actual suite.
Taste the
wilderness Words by Ronny Olovsson Photos by Andreas Lundberg

44 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
The Nordic high country has many unique and well-
known features: warm summer nights when the sun never sets;
the pure, fresh water, and the harsh winters, when the Northern
Lights hang like a veil across the heavens. From the high-altitude
glaciers to the coastland of the brackish Bothnian Bay, the shifting
seasons, with extreme differences in temperature and living con-
ditions, have given the fauna a distinct character. Only here do we
find the world-renowned Kalix löjrom, a very fine-textured and
exquisitely flavoured vendace roe. And here, the ancient reindeer
herding traditions of the Sami culture are a guarantee for first-
rate meat products. Add to the hamper exclusive game birds like
ptarmigan, and freshwater fish such as arctic char, and you’ll have
the basis for an incomparable wilderness menu.
“These ingredients offer just about everything a chef could ask
for. Each has its own special character, flavours that are distinct,
and quality that is impeccable,” says Peter Löfgren, wilderness
guide and chef at Ice-
hotel.
“Naturally, the food I cook “A well-prepared
in the wilderness must
be filling and nutritious, meal seldom tastes as
but I strive to give the good as it does out in
wilderness culinary ex-
perience another dimen- the wilds, when your
sion,” says Peter. Many body is pleasantly ex-
would even go so far as to
say that you can taste the hausted after a day of
Nordic light in this food. physical activity.”
The bright summers en-
sure an abundance upon
which all game depends.

Fillet of reindeer
à la Låktajokk
with tagliatelle
and chanterelle
sauce

Reindeer fillet
Tagliatelle
Heavy cream
Shallots or onions
Garlic
Chanterelles
Game and chanterelle stock
Salt
Black pepper
Parsley
Butter
1. Cook pasta according to instructions.
2. Grill fillet whole. Season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
3. Prepare chanterelle sauce. Sauté onion in butter. Brown
chanterelles lightly with onions. Add cream and stock.
Reduce. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cut fillet in diagonal slices.
5. Serve pasta. Pour over sauce. Top with meat.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley.

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 45
 Souvas hash
with Asian veg-
etables & sweet-
and-sour chili
cucumber

400g Chipped souvas

500g diced raw potato
400g Asian wok vegetables
Oil for frying
Salt and black pepper
Sweet-and-sour cucumber:
1 cucumber
1 dl white wine vinegar
3 tbsp. granulated sugar
1 tbsp. salt
1 red chili pepper
3 tbsp. chopped parsley
Hash
1. Fry all ingredients separately.
2. Arrange in separate piles on
the plate.

Sweet-and-sour chilli
“Taste the cucumber
1. Peel cucumber and remove

Nordic light, seeds. Cut in short, centimetre-

thick lengths.
2. Dissolve sugar and salt in

bright summer’s vinegar.

3. Chop parsley and chili pep-
per. Combine with vinegar.

abundance” 4. Add cucumber and marinate

at least 1 hour. Raw-marinated char

Serves 4.
Char fillets, approx. 400 g
Breast of ptarmigan with 6 scallions
potato salad 4 radishes
Serves 4. 2 scallions 1 red chilli pepper
1 tbsp. capers Juice of 2 limes
4 ptarmigan breast 1 dl olive oil
fillets Roquette lettuce
Vinaigrette Salt and black pepper
16-20 small, round Garnish
potatoes 2 tbsp. vinegar
2 tbsp. water cilantro
1 package (125 g)
bacon 2 tbsp. oil
1. Remove any remaining bones from
2 tomatoes 1 tbsp. coarse Dijon fish. Cut in centimetre-sized cubes.
1 red onion mustard Thinly slice scallions, radishes and chilli.
Salt and pepper
2. Combine fish, vegetables, lime juice
and oil. Season with salt and pepper.
1. Season ptarmigan breast fillets 4. Halve the potatoes. Peel to- 6. Grill the breast fillets in a hot Marinate for 5 minutes.
with black pepper. Allow fillets to matoes and remove seeds. Mince pan. Season with salt and allow to
stand, and grill them just prior to red onion and chop tomato finely. stand for 5 min. Cut fillets in thin 3. Serve the mixture in e.g., 4 martini
serving. Slice scallions. Combine potatoes, slices. glasses. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
tomato, red onion, scallions, capers
2. Prepare potato salad. Scrub and and half of the bacon bits. 7. Arrange ptarmigan slices on a
boil potatoes. plate and top with potato salad.
5. Prepare the vinaigrette and pour Top with roquette and garnish with
3. Chop bacon and fry until crisp. it over the potato salad. remaining bacon bits.
Drain.

46 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
48 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
Icehotel
never stands still
A lot of water has passed by Jukkasjärvi since ICEHOTEL first
saw the light of day 20 years ago. Read founder and owner Yngve
Bergqvist’s incredible tale of the world-unique hotel of snow
and ice. Through the story and the discussion flows the wild and
mighty Torne River, the source of a surreal ICEHOTEL that is con-
stantly revitalized and continues to challenge and amaze.
Words by Ella Jonsson & camilla Bondareva. Photo by Fredrik Alm
“The Torne River is the mother of ICEHOTEL. It has flowed freely
through Swedish Lapland for thousands of years. Living close to na-
ture, in symbiosis with the pristine river system, is both humbling and
gratifying. It gives rise to a very special and individual kind of lifestyle
– a lifestyle that we wish to share. That idea, that driving force, has
been with us here at ICEHOTEL right from the start, and it continues
to inspire us as we develop the business,” says Yngve.
In other words, authenticity is the starting point. The owners and
a diehard core of ICEHOTEL folk live along the river; following
nature’s shifting seasons and living with and off the river. Yngve ex-
plains that the setting itself and the discussions that go on in the com-
pany bring about a uniquely creative vibe.
He’s convinced he’ll never get tired of ice. “No, it’s really a fantastic
material, and there is still a lot that has never been done in the field
in which we work.
“We always want to find new and fun ways to use the ice. For ex-
ample, this winter we have started working with a new theme that
we call ‘Purity with a twist’.
In the first project, we built a drum kit of ice, here in our ice wa-
rehouse in Jukkasjärvi. The drummer from the Hellacopters perfor-
med a solo on them that was seen on YouTube more than 400,000
times in three weeks. Ice is a real magnet.”
It began with summer
In the early years, Jukkasjärvi’s local heritage group worked exclusi-
vely with summer tourism, and the village was renowned for white-
water rafting and other adventures. Even then, the Torne River was
the obvious starting point.
“There was a lot of work in the summer, but when autumn came, we
closed shop. The accepted truth at that time was that Jukkasjärvi was
just too cold in the winter. The tourism manager in Kiruna at the time
told me that Jukkas was such a cold place that no one in their right
mind would want to come here in the winter.
Many people often end up in a mental cul-de-sac, where they never
dare to make a change or see the possibilities in front of them. We
should be a bit wary of established truths,” says Yngve.
“We’ve always worked by the principle that you should ‘dig where
you stand’, and that most things are yet to be done. Despite all of the
pessimists, we decided to look at the possibilities for developing the
winter season. I remember that I had a blank notebook that I began to
fill with ideas. Now, flipping through it, I can see that we’ve realized
most of them.That’s fantastic.” Many people who have metYngve have
heard him say, “dig where you stand; much remains to be done”. La-
ter, he explains that the expression originated when he and colleague
Kristina Rajaniemi, now part owner in the company, struggled to dig
up a quince in the woods near Jukkasjärvi.
ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 49
 1992

Photos by Hans-Olof Utsi & photobigben.com

Artic Hall grows.
Now a 250 m2 igloo on the site of the present-day ICE-
HOTEL. The building was moulded in wooden forms.
92/93
1989
A small ice bar and a royal visit.
Artic Hall
is now 450 m2 & has an art exhibit and
icebar. A small apse is an ice chapel.

93/94
Two Japanese
sculptors
lead a workshop in ice sculpting for
artists from Swedish Lapland. Ice
was taken from the Torne River. The
ice sculptures were a big attraction. Absolut Icebar Jukkasjärvi
established. Firing-range exercise at Lomben, where
the igloo is an enemy command post.

1991
1990
Quinsee, the snow
building that laid the foundation for
the product development at ICE-
HOTEL. It was an igloo that was
a hollowed-out pile of snow in the
woods. Inside the igloo it was just
below freezing, while outside it was March. The idea to build
-20°C. Body heat warmed the igloo, in a new way was born in a sauna. Kauko Not-
and with spruce bows and reindeer

hides on the ground, overnighting in
a sleeping bag was comfortable. For
several years, the Swedish Armed
Forces held winter survival courses
under the direction of Lars Fält. Se-
veral symposia in survival were held
with international participants.
94/95
ström, property manager, suggested moulding wet
snow in forms. When the snow froze, the forms
were removed and the result was an igloo. A week
later, we tested the idea and soon there was a
60m2 igloo on the river near the community cen-
tre. Per Granlund, public relations consultant for
Jukkas AB, came up with the idea for Artic Hall, Artic Hall becomes Icehotel.
and we opened an art show in the igloo. First ice glass.

Ice sculpting was unknown
In the winter of 1989, two Japanese sculptors were invited to Jukkas-
järvi to lead a workshop for 12 sculptors from Norrbotten.
“Rune Sundmark and I took the initiative. Artists who were inte-
rested came to Jukkasjärvi to learn to sculpt. We sawed big blocks of
ice out of the river and pulled them up on shore. Ice sculpting was
something new and unheard of.
Ten years later, more people were needed to build ICEHOTEL. Af-
ter visiting labour exchanges around Norrbotten, we gathered 15 or
16 participants. Then Norrbotten labour board director, Björn Pet-
tersson, and county governor Björn Rosengren believed in the idea
and the whole thing resulted in a make-work scheme.
Eventually, it led to the creation of real jobs at ICEHOTEL. Of the
people who took part in the workshop, 10 or12 are still working at
ICEHOTEL after 20 years. That tells you a lot about the spirit and
loyalty in the company,” says Yngve.
The first snow building – a pile of snow in
the woods
In 1990, the very first snow building, called Quinsee, was construc-
ted. The Armed Forces survival unit commissioned the building and
used it for winter survival courses. In the middle of the woods a large
igloo was erected. It was a mound of snow that was hollowed out
and served as an overnight shelter for the soldiers. Military person-
nel learned a lot about the characteristics of snow from these exer-
cises. Heat-sensitive cameras cannot detect people inside the snow
structure, and the compact walls of snow stop bullets. The indoor
temperature remained at around a pleasant -5°C, while outdoors the
thermometer dipped below -30’C.
“In 1991, our first true snow building was constructed on the river,
using temporary wooden forms. We sat in the sauna and discussed
how to build an igloo using a moulding technique. Kauko Notström,
our property manager, led the trial project, and the technique was
later patented.
In 1992, we built a 250 m2 igloo. It was called Artic Hall. At that
time, a large group of foreign guests visited Jukkasjärvi. They deci-
ded to stay overnight, but we didn’t have enough accommodation for
everyone. Someone came up with the idea that the guests could sleep
in the igloo. The next morning, everyone in the group was ecstatic.
And the rest, as they say, is history. The ICEHOTEL business concept
was born.”
Yngve recalls the first guests who visited ICEHOTEL. “There were
just a few. The following year, the same people returned, plus a few
more. In the early years, we had around 150 to 200 guests. The figure

50 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
96/97
97/98
Ice art in
Kungsträdgården in connection
with Culture Capital Stockholm.
First ice dish.

Herb Ritts Absolut/Versace.

Photographer Herb Ritts shoots Absolut Versace
in Jukkasjärvi with supermodels Naomi
Campbell, Markus Schenkenberg
and Kate Moss. The shoot is in
98/99
Absolut Africa Hoshino’s world.
mid-December. The campaign Japanese ice exhibition based on photos by the famous Japanese
was launched in Vogue on 1 photographer who was killed by bears in Kamchatka. 12 Japanese
April 1997. Åke Larsson de- sculptors under the direction of Ruichiro Sakino. Ice and snow
signs the first luxury course as part of a program sponsored by the labour market board.
suite, with a ICEHOTEL trains two Greenland Inuit to build an igloo. The result
map of Juk- is an igloo village in Kangarluossaq, Greenland.
kasjärvi
and the
To r n e
River. 2000/01
Ice gallery
at Österlånggatan 42,

99/00
Stockholm, a small
ice exhibit. EU pro-
ject with ice art when

95/96
Sweden assumes EU
Millenium. presidency. Arne Bergh
Live world TV broadcast from Juk- and Åke Larsson build

Film shoot.
Billie August’s “Smilla’s
Sense of Snow”. The set
for the final scene was
built in Jukkasjärvi by Åke
Larsson and Arne Bergh.
01/02
kasjärvi. Sami artist Yana gets mar- a rowboat in ice, which
ried in the Ice Church; ice music they launch and test,
from ICEHOTEL Arena. Inauguration Midsummer 2001.
of ArtCenter. Igloo village and ice
sculpture exhibition. Storage shed
for ice blocks.
New logotype.
Icebar Stockholm opens
1 June 2002.

doubled in the 1994/1995 season. Since then, the numbers have stea-
dily increased.
In 2007/2008, a new record was set when we received 30,000
overnight guests during the four-and-a-half month season.”
Art an important factor
Art and design have provided a point of departure for the company
from the start. In a snow building called Artic Hall, various works of
art were exhibited.
“These included photo exhibits and paintings in different techni-
ques. Snow, ice and cold did not provide the right setting for that type
of art. It was damp, and the frames and pictures were damaged by
the climate. We started discussing how we could refine the concept.
1994/1995 was the first season we began to work exclusively with
snow and ice. Today at ICEHOTEL, more than 90% of the building
and its interior consists solely of natural material – frozen water.”
About 150 artists and designers apply each year for the chance to
work on the interior design and decoration of ICEHOTEL’s suites and
public spaces. After a careful selection process, they are flown to Juk-
kasjärvi to take part in the creation of ICEHOTEL. Many have never
worked in snow and ice before. They are led by a team of trained and
experienced artists.
“We have developed the art form ourselves. In the beginning, it was
really hard work – and uncertain. It’s much easier now that we can
organize and foresee what will happen. Each year, new techniques and
tools are used in the creative process. It’s incredibly exciting to watch
it happen.”Now, ICEHOTEL is entering a new phase of research and
development. Yngve is looking at technology that will allow him to
start building ICEHOTEL earlier than usual and thereby extend the
season in Jukkasjärvi.
Torne River world tour
An important milestone in the business was the start of collaboration
with Absolut.
“We built the first Absolut Icebar in Jukkasjärvi in 1994.With Absolut
as a partner, ICEHOTEL has been able to grow far beyond Jukkasjärvi
and Sweden’s borders. It’s tremendous to be able to take part of the
Torne River out into the world. We now have bars in Jukkasjärvi, Lon-
don, Tokyo, Stockholm and Copenhagen. And more will soon open.”
Over the years, the business has expanded and ICEHOTEL has fre-
quently been a partner in events of various kinds. The Torne River ice
has been used to boost brands such as Hugo Boss,Versace, Montblanc,
Volvo and TetraPak. The ice has been sent to major cities the world
over, and even to deserts.

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 51
Accredited Space Agent
From being an expert on travel experiences in Swedish Lapland and northern Norway, ICEHOTEL
Travel now takes an exciting leap into the future and adds space travel to their product range.
Booking preparations is well under way.
- The first space travel from Kiruna, Sweden takes place in 2012.
- Virgin Galactic has appointed five travel companies in Scandinavia with sole rights to reserve seats
aboard the suborbital flights.
- ICEHOTEL Travel is an underlying business area of ICEHOTEL AB
- As an ASA ICEHOTEL Travel will provide great local expertise for space tourism.

For more information please contact

Dan Björk
Director of Sales and Marketing
dan@icehotel.com | +46 (0) 70 633 43 49
 02/03
Photo by photobigben.com

The world’s largest igloo village,

with 140 igloos and 800 overnight guests when Tetra Pak
03/04
celebrates its 50th anniversary in Dec. 2002. Ice Globe The- December 2003
atre is built in January and opens with Shakespeare’s Ham- Queen Silvia celebrates her 60th birthday. A
let, performed in Sami by the Beaivas theatre company. St. production of Macbeth at the Ice Globe Thea-
Petersburg celebrates it tercentenary with an ice pavilion and tre is filmed. Icebar Stockholm renamed
we have our bigloo. Absolut Icebar Stockholm.

04/05
Romeo and Juliet
at Ice Globe Theatre. Discovery and
05/06
Bo Landin shoot the TV documen- Absolut Icebar London.
tary The ICEHOTEL, a world suc- Montblanc celebrates its centenary
cess. Absolut Icebar Milano opens with ice diamonds.
in October 2004.

08/09
06/07
Absolut Icebar Copenhagen.
New ice production facility ready in January 2007.

Purity with a twist

07/08
Hellacopters drummer on YouTube. Icebar by ICEHOTEL
Copenhagen and Tokyo open.

09/10
Linnaeus year
concludes with Cool Cresendium
and a visit from King Carl Gustav
and Queen Silvia. Major invest-
ments and expansion of outbuil-
dings at ICEHOTEL.

20th anniversary of ICEHOTEL

Carbon dioxide negative by 2015
Environmental awareness has been part of the ICEHOTEL concept
over the years.
“I think this comes from the fact that we work with nature and what
nature gives us. It’s humbling to follow the mighty river’s shifting
moods and witness the changing seasons. In our part of the world,
caring for nature and being grateful for what it gives is a tradition.”
A commitment to causing as little environmental impact as possible
has driven the development of the company’s environmental protec-
tion effort.
“In 2008, we came up with the idea to make ICEHOTEL carbon
dioxide neutral, and even carbon dioxide negative. We want to reach
that goal by 2015. This means that ICEHOTEL’s guests will be hel-
ping to improve the environment. Together with Gävle Energi, we
are promoting the development of renewable energy sources. All
energy used at ICEHOTEL is so-called Källmärkt renewable-source
energy. We’re proud of that.
Pioneers break new ground
The region around Jukkasjärvi is pioneering country. Sweden’s vital
mining industry has thrived here for more than a century. Some
of the country’s most spectacular high fells and mountains are to
be found here, and there is an expansive tourism sector and many
well-known brands. And here, the Esrange space research centre has
made a name for itself the world over. The most recent phenome-
non, placing Kiruna even more firmly on the map, is space tourism.
Yngve explains.
“In 2012, the first manned commercial space mission will embark
from Spaceport Sweden.
The seats are already booked and a large group of space tourists has
been here on a study visit.They were thrilled with Kiruna, Jukkasjärvi
and all that we have to offer in the form of fabulous experiences – and
contrasts.
Working with the mighty, 8,000-year-old river and now, to be able
to take our guests into space, is really magnificent. In both cases,
nature has given us the starting point. ICEHOTEL is ‘digging wear
it stands’, and we intend to keep doing things that way,” concludes
Yngve Bergqvist, gazing out over the Torne River.
Yngve was 20 when he was hired by LKAB in Kiruna on the promise
that he would play for the company handball team. If he hadn’t taken
the job, he probably would have become a sea captain instead of an
entrepreneur with a passion for snow and ice.

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 53
Science

Colourful greetings
in the winter night
So, you thought winter in Lapland they can extend, with dimi-
was in black and white. Nothing could be nishing light intensity, several
farther from the truth. In fact, the polar night hundred kilometres upwards E L E C T R O N P AT H M O L E C U L E O R AT O M
I N T H E AT M O S P H E R E
is alive with light and colour. The white snow to, at most, 1000 km.
reflects a heavenly light show – glittering Normally, the Northern
stars, a full moon and the magical, mystical Lights can be seen on
Northern Lights. But what, exactly, are the virtually every clear
Northern Lights? night at high latitu-
The Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis, ap- des in the northern
pear in a clear night sky as swirling rivers of hemisphere, under
greenish-blue light. They move and dance the so-called north
unpredictably; sometimes barely perceptible, polar auroral oval.
then suddenly growing vivid. In Sweden, the polar
In simple terms, the auroras can be explai- auroral oval is most
ned as an interaction of the solar wind and the often above Kiruna’s
Earth’s magnetic field.The solar wind consists latitude.
of charged particles emanating from the Sun. It must be dark COLLISION > N O R T H E R N L I G H T S
These are captured by the Earth’s magnetic for the auroras to
field and drawn towards the poles at very be visible, and they
high speed. The phenomenon occurs when are best viewed
the particles collide with atoms and mole- from open spaces
cules in the upper atmosphere, transforming away from periphe-
kinetic energy into visible light. Their colour ral light. As a winter
is most often greenish blue. Sometimes, the visitor to Icehotel,
Northern Lights can be red or purple. The in the polar night you
different colours depend on the types of stand a very good chance
atoms, their speed and charge.The most in- of receiving a cold and co-
tensive auroras occur at a height of about 100 lourful winter greeting from
km and can be 10 to 30 km high, although the Sun, the Northern Lights.

Light
Always welcome when it returns in
spring to the regions north of the Arc-
tic Circle. Slowly, nature awakes as the
snow melts away. Bubbling and trickling
can be heard from every ditch, mountain
stream and glade. All living things rush
towards summer with open arms.
North of the Arctic Circle, the period
from early-June until late-July is like
a single, long day. At this latitude and
time of year, the Midnight Sun never
dips below the horizon.
Sleep seems irrelevant, and energy
4pm - 5pm 6pm - 7pm 8pm - 9pm 10pm - 11pm 12am - 1am 2am - 3am 4am - 5am 6am - 7am 8am - 9am 10am - 11am 12pm - 1pm 2pm - 3pm virtually inexhaustible. Take advantage
of it. Experience nature at night, when
everything exciting happens.

54 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
Your local corporate bank for
cross border Business
Yngve Bergqvist has created the most spectacular tourist attraction:
ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi, the world´s largest igloo according to Guiness
World Records. His business concept was both bold and untried, but we
believed in the man behind this vision.

Swedbank is a large corporate bank in cross border Outside our domestic markets we operate in Denmark,
Business. Our aim is to be the natural choice for Finland, Norway, Western Russia, Luxembourg, the US,
customers and corporates. China, Ukraine and Japan.

Swedbank is for corporate clients leading bank in We give you all a warm welcome to Swedbank!
Sweden, Estonia, Lativa and Lithuania. We offer a full
range of easy-to-use and competitively priced financial
services.
The Magic
of ICEHOTEL in a metropolitan setting
If you’ve just gone against everyone’s advice and created a hotel
made entirely from snow and ice, which during its first years attracted
some 150 guests – there’s no doubt that the next step would be to add
a bar to the concept. In 1993, the founders of Icehotel in Jukkas-
järvi built a small bar at the hotel. Everything from the counter to the
furniture was made from Torne River ice. Even ice glasses would be
thought up just a few years later.
To create buzz around the world’s first ICEBAR, a press release was
sent to international media along with a photograph. Newsweek Ma-
gazine thought it was so worthwhile that they designated the small
bar in Swedish Lapland “Bar of the Year”. Two years later the Absolut
Company contacted Icehotel and a more than 15-year-long col-
laboration started. The first ABSOLUT ICEBAR came about in 1996
and was promoted by the famous ABSOLUT VERSAÇE campaign –
photographed in Jukkasjärvi by Herb Ritts with supermodels Kate
Moss, Naomi Campbell and Marcus Schenkenberg. Since then, over
50 temporary ICEBARs have been built around the world, even in
56 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
the baking-hot Niger desert. Icehotel partners with ABSOLUT in
opening ABSOLUT ICEBARs around the globe and are looking into
new exiting locations at the moment. All the ABSOLUT ICEBARs
are dressed with a certain theme, which are created to stimulate vi-
sitor interaction and to evoke all senses. London recently launched
ABSOLUT ICEBAR Factory, an industrial space with ice cogs, pipes,
monitors and even a custom made mechanical conveyer belt that dis-
plays rotating vodka cocktails. An exclusive mix of factory sounds,
beats and groundbreaking electro is aired while bartenders fully clad
in industrial protective wear serving fluorescent ABSOLUT cocktails
specifically developed to complement the new surroundings.The crea-
tive Factory theme will travel around the world to different ABSOLUT
ICEBAR locations as well as the other themes in the portfolio.
This past spring yet another ICEBAR concept was launched – ICEBAR
by ICEHOTEL. These bars are run solely by ICEHOTEL and focus on
bringing the spirit of icehotel to the guests.
 Marknadsvägen 69
Jukkasjärvi
Artists Lena Kriström & Mark Armstrong (AI JUKKASJÄRVI) Åke Larsson & Mikael Nille Nilsson (AI STOCKHOLM)
icebar@nordichotels.se
Sofi Ruotsalainen & Mikael Nille Nilsson. (AI LONDON) Jens Thoms-Ivarsson & Mats Nilsson (IBI CPH)
Arne Bergh & Åke Larsson (IBI TOKYO) Photos by photobigben.com & Andreas Lundberg.
Marknadsvägen 69
Jukkasjärvi
icehotel.com
The mother of all ICEBARS is located
at the ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi, 200
kilometers north of the Artic Circle
and first set up in 1994. Every win-
ter people from around the globe
meet up at the ICEHOTEL, and break
the ice over a drink or two at the
frosty counter of this trendy esta-
blishment. It’s open every day from
01.00 pm to 01.00 am.
In April 2009, ICEBAR CPH by ICEHOTEL
opened in the Danish capital of Copenhagen,
shortly followed in June this year by ICEBAR
TOKYO by ICEHOTEL. The “Purity with a
Twist” theme permeating these bars respec-
tfully allows the Jukkasjärvi ice to speak for
itself. On the menu are light meals with an
arctic tone and a range of beverages and
there are numerous possibilities for different
types of events for small as well as large par-
ties. No one can recreate a place as unique
as Icehotel, but visiting an ICEBAR will
momentarily teleport you to Jukkasjärvi in
Swedish Lapland.
31-33 Heddon Street
London W1B 4BN England
Phone: +44 (0)20 74 78 89 10
Nordic Sea Hotel, Vasaplan 4,
101 37 Stockholm, Sweden
Phone +46 (0) 8 5056 30 00
ABSOLUT ICEBAR STOCKHOLM is the
world’s first permanent icebar, lo-
cated in the city center at Nordic
Sea Hotel. It offers an experience
unlike any other. Chilled to a con-
stant -5°C/23°F, it evokes all your
senses. Twice a year leading inter-
national artists and designers are
invited to create experimental inte-
riors and sculptures. Drop-in Fri-
days & Saturdays 9.45 to 1 am. At
all other times, reservations are
highly recommended. As a guest at
Nordic Sea Hotel you will have ac-
cess to facilities and services.
Copenhagen Hotel 27
Løngangstræde 27,
Copenhagen, Denmark
Phone + 45 7027 56 27
31-33 Heddon Street
London, W1B 4BN, England
Phone +44 (0) 20 74 78 89 10
ABSOLUT ICEBAR LONDON opened its do-
ors in September 2005 and has en-
joyed success through sensational
events and innovative, exciting ice
designs. It’s also the first icebar
in the UK, and offers a wide range
of ice cold ABSOLUT VODKA drinks.
This luxurious venue is all about
comfort and sensory experience.
Belowzero restaurant + lounge sits
snuggly alongside ABSOLUT ICEBAR
LONDON and is the perfect place to
enjoy warm or cold cocktails and fine
food. It is often necessary to book
a table in advance.
Tokyo Chuo Ward Ginza
SVAX GINZA building 1F,
8-5-15 Ginza Chuo-Ku, Tokyo, Japan
Phone + 81 3-6228-5021
ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 57
What is your waY out?
Polaris congratulates ICEHOTEL on its 20th anniversary and look forward
to a continuous and rewarding partnership. Over the years we’ve come
together in our passion for world class innovation and safety in outdoor
adventures. That’s what we’re all about – besides having fun of course.

About Polaris

With annual 2007 sales of $1.8 billion, Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets allterrain vehicles (ATVs), including the Polaris RANGER(tm), snowmobiles and Victory motorcycles for recreational
and utility use. Polaris is a recognized leader in the snowmobile industry, one of the largest manufacturers of all terrain recreational, utility and side-by-side vehicles (ATVs) in the world, and rapidly making impressive in-roads
into the motorcycle cruiser and touring marketplace under the Victory® brand. The Victory motorcycle division was established in 1998 representing the first all-new American-made motorcycle from a major company in nearly
60 years. Polaris also enhances the riding experience with a complete line of Pure Polaris apparel, accessories and parts, available at Polaris dealerships. Polaris Industries Inc. trades on the New York Stock Exchange under
the symbol ”PII,” and the Company is included in the S&P Small-Cap 600 stock price index.
Late winter in Swedish Lapland means long, bright days, lots of
snow and brilliant sunshine. Join the Berg family on their very first
ski adventure at family-friendly Björkliden. The Bergs all agree;
a ski holiday is the perfect way to bring a family closer together.
And when a family shares the same interests and everyone can
join in the fun on their own terms, it couldn’t be better.

V ikt o r & P
a t ri k p la n
n in g t h e n
e xt ru n

Sunday 19th, April 2009

It’s an early start when the alarm clock rings at 4.00am. Even
so, both children and us parents have no trouble getting up. Forty
minutes later, the whole family and a huge amount of gear are
piled into two cars and on the way to the railway station. The
train was already waiting at the platform and we managed to get
ourselves and our baggage onboard without any rush before the
04.40 departure. Expectations were high and everyone was in a
great mood. Again, we remarked on how nice it was not to have to
drive. To just lean back and relax, and not have to keep an eye on
the road; but above all, to be together and talk with each other.
Eri k a
c e g ir ls: V il m a & It was as if our vacation began immediately. Out come the books,
S pa our packed breakfast is eaten and then someone takes a nap.
The weather was variable to say the least.When we reach
Björkliden at midday, a snow storm with 100 kph winds is

First
raging. Exciting! But wait! We thought we’d just walk up to the
hotel and check in, but we realized we weren’t wearing warm
winter clothing. Everything was packed in one of our ten bags
– but which one? Anyway, we found our hats and mittens before
Björkliden’s friendly staff drove our baggage up to our cabin. It
was a snowy walk.We looked like snowmen when we reached the
hotel. But we had a good laugh.
While waiting for our cabin, we enjoyed a good lunch in the

impression
hotel restaurant. Just imagine, we’re finally here! Despite a wild
blizzard swirling past the picture window, we were delighted by
the incredible scenery and cosy atmosphere that surrounded us.
The first thing we did when we arrived at the cabin was turn on

last
the sauna. The perfect start to our stay. Patrik and Viktor watched
a hockey game between Sweden and Russia. Then, we unpacked
our clothing and food and made our beds.
Our cabin was in the last row, with a view of Torneträsk and
Lapporten; but on the first day, all of the windows were snowed
over. It was quite an adventure to experience the force of nature.
Hoping to hit the slopes early the next morning, we turned in
early.

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 59
 in!
O n t h e t ra Monday 20th, April 2009
We rose early, opened the window shade slightly, and realized
the snowstorm was still raging. Maybe, just maybe it had died
down a bit. But we weren’t about to be defeated by something as
trivial as the weather. After breakfast, we dressed in full winter
gear, goggles included, and walked down to the general store.We
had to stock up on a few necessities. On the way back, we had a
snowball fight and played in the snow. Oh, what fun we had!
In the afternoon, we decided to ski for a few hours in the
Technique slope. It was wonderful to see the whole family on skis,
and to see that everyone could ski at their own level and have fun
together.
Stocking u p at the ”La ntha ndel” Afterwards, back at the cabin we played Alias and card games. It
was the girls against the boys. In the evening, we enjoyed a good
home-cooked meal, watched TV, and then fell happily asleep in
our comfy beds.

When
we reach
Björkliden
at midday, a
Ad mi rin g th e vie w
snow storm
with 100
kph winds
is raging.
Wow! Blown away
Exciting!

60 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
Tuesday 21st, April 2009 F irst on e in, la st on
e out

Finally, the weather looked promising. To be honest, the weather

really does matter. And after a long winter, we needed a little
colour on our cheeks. Hurray! All the lifts were open! Now we
could do some serious skiing. The runs were fantastic and the
whole family was ecstatic. This is the life! The slopes were ideal
for the children, and we were delighted with all the possibilities
and the sense of freedom.We ate an early lunch at the Snowbar
near the Kåppas ski lift.With faces towards the warming sun, we Ti me for lu nch a nd new energ y
sat outside on comfortable reindeer hides on the deck.Wonderful!
After a couple more hours on the slopes, our legs were star-
ting to feel the strain.We decided to return to the Snowbar for
a break. Then, it happened. I fell, without any warning, and hit
my head quite hard. Naturally, I was wearing a helmet. This gave
me a terrible headache and pain in my jaws and neck. After a
few minutes, I was able to stand up and get myself down to the
Snowbar. That knock on the head resulted in a 15-20 minute
blackout, which was very unpleasant. Patrik and the children
had to explain again and again what had happened. Staff at the
Snowbar helped Patrik to call for transport. Minutes later, I was ”E a t in g o
ut”
taken by snowmobile to the hotel doctor. A light concussion was
the verdict. Typical.Would I still be able to ski?
Back at the cabin, I rested for a while and then we began to
prepare dinner. Evening darkness fell. Curtains were drawn and
lamps lit, so I could sit up with the family. It was a pleasant eve-
ning of conversation. (There was a lot of talk about memory loss.)
I’m hoping I can make it out onto the slopes again tomorrow.

”Ha ha ha...!”

”Ea ting out.”

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 61
 N e xt t i m e
I ’ ll w in

Wednesday 22nd, April 2009 Thursday 23rd, April 2009

Fabulous weather! The sun is shining, lunch is packed, and the
Berg family is ready for a full day on the slopes. How could I
let a simple concussion keep me from getting back on the hill on
such a fine day? No sooner said than done, we set up our base
camp near the grill pit by the ski lift, an ideal spot. Especially
for me, since I had to take it easy.
Lunch was cooked over an open fire and the children went off
on their own. I took it very easy. I was disappointed at not being
able to ski, but took comfort in the fact that I could enjoy the
weather, fresh air and beautiful scenery and be with my wonder-
ful family.We rounded off a great day with a superb meal at the
hotel restaurant, always in sight of the majestic Lapporten.What
a bonus!
As the saying goes, time flies when you’re having fun. Our last
day, and the cabin had to be cleaned.
The program included a trip by snow cat up to Låktatjåkko
Fjällstation, Sweden’s highest mountain lodge.We were a party
of ten and the journey took 45 minutes.We saw families on cross-
country skis, snowmobiles along the trail, and up at the lodge,
three men who had climbed all the way up ‘haute-ski style’ with
skins on their skis. It had taken them four hours – against the
wind. But they must have had a fantastic run down the moun-
tain.We enjoyed the spectacular view, tasty goulash and delicious
waffles before it was time to head back.
That evening, we said goodbye to Björkliden and boarded the
train.What fabulous days, what a wonderful experience.We read,
the children finished their homework, and then we had dinner in
the dining car.
Our first family ski trip has come to an end.We’ve definitely
acquired a taste for ski holidays. It’s an unbeatable vacation that
brings the whole family closer together in sharing a common
interest with plenty of time outdoors.We are already looking
forward to returning to Björkliden.

Ski greetings from

Patrik, Erika, Viktor & Vilma Berg

r enjo yi ng a n
V il m a & V ikto d in n er
a m a zi ng

Facts Björkliden
Björkliden, situated 250 km north of the Arctic Circle, is a place
of extreme contrasts. During the winter you can experience world
class  heliskiing in a mountain region half the size of Austria, try
dog sledding through majestic winter landscapes, or visit Sweden’s
highest mountain station, Låktatjåkko, 1228 meters above sea le-
vel. In the summertime, when the sun doesn’t set for 100 days, you
can discover Kåppasjåkka, one of Sweden’s largest cave systems or
play golf on one of the world’s most spectacular golf courses with
a breathtaking view of the Swedish alps. There is a wide range of
options for accommodation and restaurants offering both interna-
tional cuisine and northern Swedish specialities.

Björkliden Fjällby AB | 981 93 Björkliden | Tel. +46(0)980 641 00 | Fax. +46(0)980 410 80 | info@bjorkliden.com | www.bjorkliden.com

62 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne

      
A stay at the ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi
is a unique and unforgettable way of
experiencing winter’s dark beauty, and
Besam is proud to be providing the
main entrance and other door opening
solutions to this remarkable building
for the 2009-2010 season.
Besam is a world-leading provider of
safe, convenient and reliable entrance
solutions and service, and we look
forward to putting our 40 years of
application experience to work in the
extreme environment that is northern
Sweden in winter.
A Besam UniSlide automatic door
system will welcome visitors to the
ICEHOTEL this season, as well as to
the Absolut ICEBARS around the
world. It’s part of our full range of
entrance products that also includes
swing doors, revolving doors, air
Space
When the space ship separates from the carrier, it ignites its own rocket engine and begins the space flight, giving travellers 4-5 minutes of weightlessness.
Round trip to space
Kiruna has been a space centre
for 50 years. Over the years, the curve has
pointed straight upwards. Services include
everything from launching of sounding rock-
ets and stratospheric balloons to satellite
control and advanced testing of aerospace
systems. In combination with Lapland’s exo-
tic nature and the high-quality infrastructure
for tourism, the next stage of development
seems inevitable. It’s time for passenger tra-
vel, and the destination is space.
“Commercial space operations are right
for the times. There is a great interest from
the private sector,” says Johanna Bergström-
Roos, public relations manager at Spaceport
Sweden in Kiruna.
Spaceport Sweden aims to be Europe’s first
and most obvious base for space travel for
paying tourists. Spaceport Sweden is open to
all operators in the space tourism sector. An
64 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
The astronauts have already started to prepare
for their space adventure, with tests that
expose the body to forces of up to 6G.
agreement is now in place between Spaceport
Sweden and Virgin Galactic, which is now the
market leader in the development of techno-
logy for space tourism.Virgin Galactic expects
to launch the first space trip for tourists, from
Spaceport America in New Mexico, in 2010,
and from Spaceport Sweden in 2012. “Flight
testing of WhiteKnightTwo, the carrier aircraft
that will take the spacecraft SpaceShipTwo to
an altitude of 15 kilometres, will begin in the
autumn of 2008. Subsequently, SpaceShipTwo
will ignite a rocket engine and fly to an alti-
tude of up to 130-140 kilometres. An altitude
of 100 km is the generally accepted boundary
between Earth and space. During the flight,
passengers will experience about 4 or 5 minu-
tes of weightlessness while enjoying a fantastic
view,” says Johanna. About 250 passengers
have already booked a space trip with Vir-
gin Galactic at a cost of 1.4 million Swedish

I am an
kronor per person. About 80 space travel-
lers have already started to prepare for their
space adventure, experiencing forces of up
to 6G. Last winter, about 50 of them visited
Kiruna and Spaceport Sweden.
“It was a very successful trip. The travel-
lers experienced subarctic Lapland, with
a visit to Icehotel, a helicopter tour to
Kebnekaise’s summit, dogsledding, snowmo-
biling, a rocket launch at Esrange Space Cen-
ter, good food and drink, and more besides.
Lapland is super-exotic and comes as quite a
surprise for many who have ‘seen and done
everything’. It’s a fantastic complement to
a space adventure. We’re pleased to see that
we have a product that meets expectations
in every respect,” says Johanna. In the long
term, it is conceivable that space travel will
generate new technology that can be used
for terrestrial travel.
“For example, a flight might start in Swe-
den and land a couple of hours later in Aus-
tralia. Hopefully, thanks to better energy ef-
ficiency, suborbital flights will help to reduce
the environmental impact of travel,” Johanna
adds. Another aspect is that space travel may
encourage ways of thinking that are positive
for development and humanity. “Astronauts
seldom speak solely about space when they
return to Earth. They emphasize the beauty
and fragility of Earth. I hope that environ-
mental awareness will grow as more people
who are in a position to make a difference
have the opportunity to experience this,”
says Johanna Bergström-Roos.
Space
adventurer
Jon Goodwin; Space tourist
Your fascination for space – how did it all be-
gin? Space was not necessarily my fascination. Because I am
an adventurer, VG seemed to me to be just a fantastic opportu-
nity to be one of the first non-Astronauts to go to space.
“Astronauts You will be one of the world’s first private
seldom space travellers, what are your expectations
for the flight? Going to mach1 will blow my mind, I can’t
speak get my head around it and that experience will be sensational.
I’ve done some pretty exciting things in my time. I was the first
solely person to canoe down the grand canyon in a Canadian double,
I’ve competed in the Olympics and I race Ferraris. Going to
about space space will be the ultimate!
when they How are you preparing for the spaceflight? I’ve
always trained hard and have no concerns for the flight. In fact
return to I have completed my centrifuge training last Autumn and had
no problems at all.
Earth. They You visited Spaceport Sweden last Winter – how
emphasize was it? The whole trip was just incredible fun – staying in the
IceHotel, the sledding, the helicopter ride to Kebnekaise –
the beauty it was truly magical. In fact I have recommended it to many
others and I think it will make a fantastic launch site of the
and future. I think many people who fly from New Mexico will want
to fly again from Spaceport Sweden so they can see a totally
fragility of different view, have a totally different experience, and hope-
fully fly through the northern lights.
Earth.” Name 3 things that you would like to take to
space with you? I want to take nothing but my body. I want
to totally enjoy and immerse myself in the experience – the
speed, the weightlessness. I don’t want to be worrying about
cameras, documenting the flight or anything else. I just want
to enjoy and observe.
Susan Newsam (Head of Marketing Production, VG)
Jon Goodwin (VG Founder), Louella Faria-Jones (Astronaut
Relations Manager), Pauline Goodwin (Jon’s Wife, who has also
competed in the Olympics)
ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 65
Space

Photos by nasa
At 20.47 local time on 9 December 2006 (02.47 on
10 December, Swedish time), his moment came. After
a successful launch from Cape Canaveral in Florida,
Christer Fuglesang became the first Swede in space.
And soon, he will get another chance. Christer will
fly with space shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-128,
which is planned to begin on 30 July 2009.

2009 is the International Year of Astro-

nomy. Why do you think space is so topical
right now? “A lot is happening in space and many
countries are involved. Among other things, this in-
cludes activities in connection with the space station.
Space is used for communication and navigation. And
there is all the exciting research that is being conduc-
ted in space, of which the aim is to learn more about
space as well as Earth.”

What can we modern, urban dwellers learn

from space? “We can learn much about the climate by
observing our planet from afar. We can predict harvest yields
and prepare for possible crop failure, for example. On the
space station, weightlessness is used in research to study phe-
nomena that are otherwise difficult to study on Earth, owing
to gravity.”

In December 2006 you did three space walks

during your mission on ISS. What are your stron-
gest impressions from this experience? Living in
weightlessness for 13 days, without a doubt. And seeing Earth
from a distance was overwhelming. I was struck by how small
and vulnerable our planet is in the massive, black universe. Es-
pecially when you notice the thin atmosphere on the horizon,

WorK
our only protective barrier against space.”

How do you think we will explore space in the

future? The USA is now building a new moon rocket. The
plan is to travel to the Moon and build a research base. The
intention is to learn for the future and to make a voyage to

place
Mars within 25-30 years. In the long term, I believe that
we will settle on other planets and live there for extended
periods. However, it will take a couple of centuries before
we emigrate to Mars.”

Do you think we will discover intelligent life

forms out there in space? That is doubtful. I think we
might find simpler forms of life. Perhaps there is intelligent

Space
life out there, but if there is, it’s far away and difficult to com-
municate with. Only now do we have technology that enables
us to spend time in space and peer far out into the universe.
Who knows, perhaps they will find us first.”

- I have nothing against

space tourism. Private,
commercial intrests are
driving the development of
space, it benefits everyone.
Many dream of working in space. For a chosen few, this
dream becomes reality. One of them is Christer Fugle-
sang, Sweden’s first astronaut. Since 1992, when he and
five other prospective European astronauts were selected
for ESA Group 2, it had been a long wait for Christer.

66 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
The last 15 years the ICEBAR concept has celebrated its success by serving refreshing cocktails
in unique surroundings created from ice from the Torne River. The flow of ice from the majestic
river has found its way to ICEBAR’s all over the world – now the concept has taken a step
further with ICEBAR by ICEHOTEL. Launched 2009 in Copenhagen and Tokyo with the coolest
drum solo ever. The guest will be offered a sensual experience of food, drinks, design and art
with special effects to capture the spirit of ICEHOTEL. www.youtube.com/icehotel
Icehotel has teamed up with Philips to enhance the art and the natural ice qualities to really
touch all your senses with Philips unique consumer products and light design.

Next year you can also find the Philips suite up at ICEHOTEL - a must to see!
Check in
winter 2009/2010
10 december-19 april

summer 2010
June- August

ICEHOTEL is in a small village north of the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland. Get-
ting here is easier than you think. We are just 17 km from Kiruna’s railway station
and 12 km from Kiruna Airport. The flight from Stockholm only takes an hour and
a half. With Jukkasjärvi as your starting point, you can easily reach the Lapland
fells and the fiords of northern Norway. Contact ICEHOTEL Travel for bookings.

Welcome to Jukkasjärvi
ICEHOTEL offers comfortable accommo- 2

Photos by photobigben.com
1
dation, fabulous natural surroundings and plenty of
outdoor leisure alternatives. In the winter, you can
choose from among several accommodation alterna-
tives and combinations, with an overnight stay at ICE-
HOTEL and the rest of your nights in our warm hotel
rooms. Breakfast buffet, warm clothing and a morning
sauna (with towels) are included. During the summer,
the sauna can be booked at the reception desk. Boots,
life vests and other equipment can also be rented.
See page 75.

Warm accommodation 3

1. KAAMOS HOTEL ROOMS. Bright, double rooms in modern

Scandinavian style with corner windows. Double beds (divisible in some
rooms). Bathroom with shower and toilet. TV, telephone and kettle. Wire-
less Internet.

2. Northern Lights hotel chalet. Two separate

bedrooms: one single and one double. Double bed (not divisible).
Bedrooms have skylights with a view of the summer sky and Midnight
Sun. Living room with refrigerator, kettle, TV, telephone. Bathroom
with shower and toilet. Wireless Internet.

3. Nordic hotel chalet. Two separate bedrooms: one with

divisible double bed and one with bunk bed. Living room with refrige-
rator, kettle, TV, telephone. Bathroom with shower and toilet. Wireless
Internet.

70 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
 Check in
4
Art Suite Crystal Cupola by Artists Charly Walter & Rashid Sagadeev. Photos by photobigben.com

Cold accommodation
4. DELUXE SUITE. This suite was created by spe-
cially selected artists and is perfect if you wish to give
yourself and a loved one something extra.

5. ART SUITE. Stay in the midst of ice art in the

form of amazing designs and wonderful sculptures.
Each room is uniquely designed by different artists
from around the globe.

6. ICE ROOMS. Comfortably appointed rooms with

ice furniture and ice art.

7. SNOW ROOM. In this spacious room you’ll

sleep well in -5 degrees.

Artists Åke Larsson & Mats Nille Nilsson. Photos by photobigben.com

7

5
Art Suite Ho-Shi to Tsu-ki by Artist Hiroyoshi Sakai. Photos by photobigben.com

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 71
Check in
1

Photos by photobigben.com & Hans-Olof Utsi

Restaurant
At ICEHOTEL, the menu is seasonal. The pantry is full of ingredients
harvested straight from the forests, rushing rivers and crystal-clear
lakes.Whitefishroe, reindeer and moose, arctic raspberries and cloud-
berries are transformed into tasty delicacies to tempt even the most
particular of gourmets. ICEHOTEL Restaurant offers a gastronomic
adventure in a bright and modern atmosphere. Even if the restaurant
isn’t made of ice, some dishes are served on plates and bowls made of
crystal-clear ice from the Torne River. 3

1. ICEHOTEL 2
Restaurant
ICEHOTEL Restaurant offers a gast-
ronomic adventure in a bright and
modern atmosphere. An exclusive
menu is served on plates and bowls
made of crystal-clear ice from the
Torne River.

Round off lunch with a fortifying cup of
coffee or a tempting dessert in the bar at
ICEHOTEL Restaurant.
2. ICEHOTEL lounge
If you’re looking for somewhere to
settle into an armchair and relax
between adventures, visit our newly 4
opened lounge in the reception buil-
ding. Here, you can order a hot drink
or even an aperitif before dinner.

3. absolut icebar
In the evening, when you feel the
winter chill, we recommend a visit to our bars. ABSOLUT ICEBAR JUKKASJÄRVI,
created in 1994, is the world’s first icebar. Each year, it is recreated as an important
part of ICEHOTEL. Here, hotel guests meet to share their experiences of overwhelming
encounters with snow and ice. 5
4. N´ice bar
N’ice bar, just a flight of stairs below ICEHOTEL Restaurant, is a pleasant, relaxing
bar that stays open late. Our bartenders mix the most sensational drinks.

5. homestead restaurant
Overlooking the Torne River is the authentic, homey Restaurang Hembygdsgården
–the Homestead. In this timber building, built in 1768, you can enjoy a superb
à la carte menu.

ICE CHURCH
The need to express reverence, to be ❄ The wedding coordinator at ICEHOTEL will help you
plan from start to finish. The planning period can vary
alone with one’s thoughts and to contemp- from one month to a couple of years. Larger weddings
late life often makes itself known when you usually require a longer planning period, since travel, ac-
visit ICEHOTEL. All the pieces of the puzzle commodation and table bookings must be coordinated.

fall into place in the ice church by the Torne ❄ When it comes to attire, dare to make a departure
River. The ceremony and unique experience from the traditional. Our advice: think warm! If you wish
are always moving. And perhaps the me- to wear a wedding gown, wear something warm under-
neath and add a warm jacket or cape to your ensemble.
mory of a shared experience will be even ICEHOTEL also holds civil wedding ceremonies.
stronger, since the church is transitory.
When there is no specific building to relate
to and return to, the memory and the pro-
mises become even closer to the heart. The
ice church seats about 35-45 guests.

72 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
 Check in
Photos by Hans-Olof Utsi

How to keep warm

how to dress Dressing properly for the Arctic environ-
ment is the key to enjoying all the fan-
tastic experiences that await you at ICE-
HOTEL to the full. When planning your
visit here, you should think in terms of the
layer principle. The idea behind wearing
several layers of clothing is that air spa-
ces are formed between the layers. They
serve to insulate and ventilate. Avoid cot-
ton clothing, since cotton binds moisture
and has a chilling effect. Outdoor winter
wear such as warm overalls, warm shoes
or boots, hat and mitts are included in
3. Bigger shoes
your stay at the hotel, free of charge. In
Choose footwear that is somewhat larger
addition, it is a good idea to bring a ”base
than normal to allow space for socks and/
layer” or thermal underwear including
or insoles. This results in a warming air
long-johns and a long-sleeved undershirt,
layer inside the shoes or boots to keep
woollen and fleece sweaters, a scarf and
you warm for longer. Additional clothing
your own gloves/mittens, as well as plenty
is used at very low temperatures. A down
of warm wool socks.
jacket or a thick fleece or wool sweater
serves as an effective additional garment.
1. Warm on top When you stay at ICEHOTEL rental of
A good hat is essential. It should protect
warm winter shoes is included that are
not only the head but also the ears and
well suited for our climate. With them on
neck. Gloves should give good protection
you’ll walk safely inside the hotel and out
to the hands while allowing adequate
in the deep snow. The snow-clad lands-
freedom of movement and feel.
cape surrounding ICEHOTEL can hide
icy spots that are not easily discovered so
2. Wind protection please mind your step.
The purpose of the outer shell is to pro-
vide protection against water and wind in
4. Moisture transport
combination with the other layers. The
The layer nearest to the body needs to
material should breathe and allow full
transport moisture away. Choose under-
freedom of movement.
wear in a synthetic material, wool or a
wool mix. Fleece, preferably windproof,
makes an excellent midlayer.

Ar
c ti
c C KIRUNA
irc le Jukkasjärvi
FLYING TIMES TO KIRUNA FROM

Stockholm 1 hr. 30 min.

Copenhagen 2 hrs. 20 min.
London 3 hrs. 45 min.
Paris 3 hrs. 50 min.
advice on booking Milan 5 hrs.
Frankfurt 3 hrs. 30 min.
Stockholm
Moscow

Contact our booking department when planning your trip to ICEHOTEL. We’ll help you to Madrid 6 hrs.
London Abisko
get the most out of your vacation, and we have plenty of helpful suggestions. Here, you’ll New York 10 hrs.
find all the answers to your questions about accommodation, activities and all of our of- Berlin
Rio de Janeiro 20 hrs. ICEHOTEL
ferings. Our group and conference department will be pleased to put together a program Orca safari
proposal including accommodation, activities, meals and transfers, all according to your
Tokyo 12 hrs. 30 min. Kiruna
Paris
wishes. We wish you a warm welcome to ICEHOTEL. www.icehotel.com Sydney 25 hrs.

Contact Address
Phone: +46 (0) 980 66 800 ICEHOTEL
Madrid
Fax: +46 (0) 980 668 90 981 91 Jukkasjärvi Rome
Email: info@icehotel.com SWEDEN Arc ti c
ICEHOTEL is just 17 km from Kiruna’s
railway station and 12 km from Kiruna
Airport. From Stockholm, you can
ICEHOTEL Partners reach Kiruna easily by train. Book your
ticket with SJ. HAGLÖFS LOGOTYPE

B A S I C L O G O T Y P E . TO B E U S E D A S P O S I T I V E B L A C K O N A L I G H T B A C K G R O U N D

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 73
Check in
winter activities
Adventures can vary from short, one-hour outings to tours of several
days. Combine your outdoor leisure with an overnight stay at one of
our wilderness camps. For information on all activities and how to
book, visit www.icehotel.com.
SNOWMOBILE safari
Snowmobile from/to
airport
Start your adventure the minute you land.
A guide meets you on arrival. All equip-
ment is provided and snowmobiles are
waiting outside the terminal.
Pre-booking required.
❄ Daily, upon flight arrivals & departures.
Snowmobile
introduction tour
Guided tour of open country and deep fo-
rests around Jukkasjärvi.
❄ Daily, about 1.5 hrs.
Snowmobile NortherN
Light Tour
Light meal is served in camp and Northern
Lights information.
❄ Daily, about 4 hrs.
Snowmobile
Wilderness Safari
Guided tour of Jukkasjärvi’s majestic
lowlands. Traditional wilderness meal is
included.
❄ Daily, about 3 hrs.
Overnight
snowmobile tour
At nightfall, dense darkness envelopes
our wilderness camp, promising a good
chance to witness the fantastic Northern
Lights and a sky of glittering stars. When
the moon is shining, fox and hare often
approach the camp. With any luck, we
might catch a glimpse of the wary wolve-
rine. Friday and Saturdays.
Snowmobile Tour in the
Moose’s Winter Gracing
Grounds
By snowmobile, we reach the heart of the
moose’s winter grazing grounds. Exclusive
tour, max. 8 people/group. Last season,
we met moose on every one of these sa-
faris.
❄ Daily until 31 March, about 6 hrs.
Wilderness moose tour
Transfer by minibus to the moose’s winter
grazing grounds. Photo opportunities, pro-
vided conditions are right. The tour will
run only in conjunction with departure
transfers.
❄ Daily until 31 March, about 4 hrs.
74 | ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne
Photos by Hans-Olof Utsi
Ice Driving
Challenge the car and yourself on ice. After a safety
course, you drive on an ice track under the guidance of
expert instructors who help you to develop your skills. Max
10 drivers with 2 passengers per vehicle. Min 18 years.
Driver’s licence (valid in Sweden) is required. Mandatory
alcohol test may be required prior to driving.
Fridays and Sundays. Until 31 March. About 4 hrs.
Esrange
Dinner under the stars
Transfer by minibus to Esrange, guided
tour. Afterwards, we proceed to our camp
near beautiful Lake Salmijärvi. While din-
ner is being prepared, you’ll enjoy a wel-
come drink with a local touch and scan the
heavens in hope of sighting the Northern
Lights. A three-course meal is served. Af-
ter dinner, we return to ICEHOTEL.
❄ Daily. Ptarmigan hunting on
the winter fells
Combination skis/snow- Winter ptarmigan hunting has always
shoes with guide been surrounded in mystique. If you’ve
We choose our equipment and head out to ever glided on skis towards a flock of
the forest with our guide. arctic ptarmigan, then you may have trou-
❄ Daily, about 2 hrs. ble concentrating on anything else when
January approaches.
Northern Light
Tour by Horse
There is a special feeling to explore the
On Request
snow clad landscape from the back of an
Icelandic Horse. Join us on a tour through Following tours are available on request.
the forest in search of northern lights; Please contact our acitivity desk at the
with a bit of luck we’ll see moose cros- main reception for assistance.
sing our path. The tour is rounded off with
supper consisting of local specialities in a Snowmobile Tour for
goahti (tent-cot). Enthusiasts
❄ Daily until 31 Mars. Transfer to and from This tour is for the serious snowmobilers.
the activity. About 4,5 hrs. With one person per machine the guide ta-
kes you to favourite spots in the vicinity.
Moose Safari by Horse ❄ About 2 hrs.
By horseback through the moose winter
grazing land, a fun and different way to Ranger RZR
get close the wild and withdrawn animals Riding two per Ranger this is a fun ATV
also know as the king of the forest. If you race where you compete against the clock Ice sculpting
get lucky, you might get to see both moose to try and achieve two similar laps. Warm Trying your hand at ice sculpting is a must when you
and reindeer during our journey through lingon berry juice is included. visit ICEHOTEL. With ice tools and professional gui-
the snowy forest.
dance, you discover the magical world of ice sculp-
❄ Daily until 31 March. About 6 hrs.
ting. Experience the joy of artistic creation together
with friends and colleagues. Then take your ice scu-
Arctic Trail
lpture to decorate the dinner table in the evening.
Explore the Lapland landscape on a
snowmobile tour well off the beaten tou-
rist track. Ride along old herding trails,
through woodlands and over fells. Arctic
Trail links the northernmost parts of Swe-
den, Norway and Finland. Here, you travel
‘border-free’ through Scandinavia. Tours
include all transfers, cabin/wilderness
camp/hotel accommodation, one snow-
mobile per person, fuel/oil, full board and
guides. Minimum 2 people. Contact our
booking desk for a full program.
On your own or
with a guide
Experiences for both the family and the
daring adventurer. Rent equipment inclu-
ding skis, snowshoes, backpacks, fishing
gear and much more and create your own
adventure.
 Check in
Dogsled transfer
between Kiruna
Airport and ICEHOTEL
An exotic way to arrive at
ICEHOTEL. Pre-booking required.
❄ Daily, upon flight arrivals &
departures.
summer activities
ICEHOTEL is one of Sweden’s most experienced arrangers of
Dogsled Tour Short wilderness adventures and experiences.
You settle comfortably into the sled
and the eager team dashes off. In-
cludes a wilderness coffee break by Tailor made program, choose from above
an open fire. activities. Every day of the week.
❄ Daily
A day in Lapland
Dogsled lunch tour We go by boat upstreams the mighty Torne
with a visit to the River, one of the worlds still unexploited
kennel rivers. We make a stop in Laxforsen and
Tour includes a 2-course wilderness try our fishing skills, if we are lucky we
lunch and visit to a kennel. might get a fish or two. When we start
❄ Daily to feel hungry we continue upsteams to
White water rafting on one of our wilderness camps. Depending
Optional extra the Torne River on the weather we eat inside or outside.
Learn to drive a dog team. Take a day tour along the Torne River. While the guide prepares the lunch for
Mid-journey we take a break on a small you, you can try to throw lasso and other
island to enjoy a wilderness meal in the various games. When the time feels right
magical summer light. About 30 km on we head back towards Jukkasjärvi and the
the river, Class 2 to 4 rapids, and a total Homestead area. You’re now on your own,
drop of 80 metres. Not suitable for child- you can visit the Nutti Sami Siida – inclu-
ren under the age of 12. Includes transfer ded in tour price, or just strole around the
return to Jukkasjärvi. homestead area.

In search of the moose

We meet in the afternoon for an introduc-
tion of what will happen during the tour.
You will also be given some facts about
the moose and the forest areas we are
going to travel in. We are out for about
4 hours in the forests surrounding Juk-
kasjärvi. In the evening we meet again for
another 4 hour trip out into the woods.

Ranger RZR takes us out

to fish or bird watch
This tour takes you close to flora and fau-
na. We drive on tracks and trails through
forests and wilderness. Stopping for a Ice sculpting
light meal and fishing or birdwatching, Trying ice sculpting is almost mandatory
depending on what time of summer you when visiting ICEHOTEL. The material,
Photos by Hans-Olof Utsi

are here. Facts: Ranger RZR is a two-seat
Ráidu - Sámi culture &
four-wheel drive vehicle. Coffee/tea and
reindeers
sandwiches are served during the trip.
Learn about the rich Sami culture and
Fishing equipment & license is included
lifestyle. Simple, traditional Sami food
in the tour.
by an open fire I a tent-cot.
❄ Daily, about 3,5 hrs.
Canoe trip on the
Torne River
You will head out on a canoe trip with
our guide who will choose the route de-
pending on the weather conditions after
about 1,5-2 hours. The guide will make
a stop on the small island of Rimisari to
allow you to take a look at the flora and
Fauna. Includes a lighter meal.
the crystal clear ice, we have lots of in
Jukkasjärvi. Feel your creativity flow
together with friends, colleagues and
family. With tools and guidance from ex-
perienced guides you get an insight in the
magic world of ice sculpting.
Minimum age 6 years (sharp tools).
Time: 1-2 hours.
Guided tour to Esrange
Space Center
A visit at Esrange Space Center, the ope-
rational facility of Swedish Space Corpo-
ration, will explain all this. Here you will
see that our daily work has a firm connec-
tion to your reality and your daily life.
The facility lies 45 km from Kiruna, and
during a visit here you will learn about
sounding rockets and high altitude bal-
loons used for science, and about satel-
lites used for communication and Earth
observation. As the facility has activities
and campaigns running all year round, the
tours, and what you will see, can change
from day to day.

ICEHOT EL M aga zi ne | 75
G:>CK:CI>C<8DDAL>I=6
C:L8=>AA>C<I=:B::K:GN
H>MBDCI=H#

LLL#67HDAJI>8:76G#8DB