With the cold weather settling in, many of us start dreaming about the arrival of spring and warmer days. However, we have to acknowledge that winter has its own unique appeal. Without the chilly season, we wouldn’t be able to enjoy winter sports or experience unique accommodations like igloo-hotels.

Just last month, Switzerland unveiled the world’s largest igloo. Situated near the Zermatt station, facing the iconic Matterhorn, it’s constructed from 1,387 snow blocks, each weighing around 40 kilos. Although this massive igloo isn’t designed for overnight stays, there are many others in Sweden and Finland that offer such an experience.

Among these, the Swedish Ice-Hotel stands out. Completely built with snow and ice from the Torne River, the hotel covers 5,500 square meters. Despite being made of ice, the rooms are well-decorated, spacious, and have an elegant touch with plenty of intricate details.

In Finland, the Kemi SnowCastle uses the abundant snow and frozen waters of the Baltic coast to create special bricks for its construction. First built in 1996, the castle has been reconstructed annually due to its popularity with tourists. Designed by local artists, its shape changes every year and it’s beautifully lit with colored lights to create different moods.

For ski enthusiasts, the Golden Crown Hotel in Finnish Lapland is the perfect place to unwind after a long day outdoors. Located at the top of Utsuvaara hill, these cozy igloos offer an unforgettable stay. Although they aren’t made of ice, their large windows are perfect for stargazing.