Nestled where the river kisses the sea, Kalix is a serene gem in the Swedish Lapland. Here, Ice and Light Village introduces a unique retreat: modern cottages wrapped in igloo shells, boasting Scandinavian design and panoramic windows to nature's spectacle. It's where luxury meets the wilderness, inviting you to a stay unlike any other.
After an exhilarating road trip around Swedish Lapland, filled with snowy landscapes, northern lights, and endless winter wonder, our journey brought us to the final stop: the Ice and Light Village in Kalix. This unique hotel, where one spends the night in an igloo by the Kalix River, offered us a blend of adventure and relaxation, making our stay truly memorable.
The Igloo Experience at Ice and Light Village
Upon our arrival, the warmth and hospitality of the owner immediately stood out. It's not every day you find such dedication and passion in making guests feel not just welcome but truly special.
Sleeping in an igloo might sound cold, but it was anything but. The igloos at Ice and Light Village are ingeniously designed with a comfortable and cozy interior, equipped with a large bed, a Cinderella toilet, and a shower. The real magic, however, lay in the large windows and ceiling, allowing us to gaze at the stars and, if lucky, the aurora borealis from the comfort of our bed. The igloo also featured an enclosed patio area with panoramic views of the Kalix River, where we could relax and admire the stunning landscape. A heater ensured the patio remained a cozy spot to enjoy some quality time together, even in the heart of winter.
The room rates vary depending on the season, with a range that accommodates the budget-conscious to those looking to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As of our last visit, rates started at 2690 SEK in the peak of winter.
Arvids Matstudio Delivered Food to Our Igloo
Though the village doesn't have its own restaurant, the culinary experience was far from lacking. We indulged in a gourmet plank from Arvids Matstudio, a delightful spread of local tapas and charcuteries that was delivered right to our igloo. The combination of Kalix caviar, smoked reindeer, and other local specialties, complemented by wine, made for an unforgettable dining experience under the Arctic sky.
Ice and Light Village Activities
Our stay was the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The peaceful environment invited us to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature and each other's company. For those seeking more excitement, the village offers activities such as boat tours, kayaking, dog sledding, and the chance to witness the northern lights. However, we found the greatest joy in just being there, immersed in the tranquility of Lapland.
Breakfast with a View
One of the highlights of our stay was the breakfast. The thoughtful touch of having breakfast delivered to our igloo added a layer of luxury to the experience. In the morning, we were greeted with a breakfast bucket left in a cooler in our igloo, packed with a delightful selection of fresh bread, juice, yoghurt, fruit, and muffins. While the contents varies daily, the quality and the thoughtfulness behind the selection was pleasant. Enjoying this hearty breakfast in bed, with the panoramic view of the Kalix River unfurling before our eyes, was a moment of pure bliss. It's these small details that Maarit, the owner, gets absolutely right, making guests feel pampered and well taken care of.
Leaving Ice and Light Village was bittersweet. Our stay not only marked the end of our Lapland road trip but also left us with memories we'll remember forever. The combination of the stunning location, unique accommodation, exquisite food, and the owner's hospitality made our time at the Ice and Light Village one of the highlights of our journey through Swedish Lapland.
Is sleeping in a igloo on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments below!
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