5 Reasons to Visit the Hôtel de Glace in Québec City
Québec is the perfect winter city to spend magical snow‑filled moments with family, friends, or that special someone. Hôtel de Glace (the Ice Hotel) is just 20 minutes from the city centre and is open to visitors from January to March. The ultimate experience is to spend the night there, but a simple tour of this architectural wonder is well worth the trip. The 2025 season marks a significant milestone for this winter gem, as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.
Here are 5 reasons to tour the hotel while you’re in Québec City:
Pikur
1Marvel at the Architecture
Built with 3,000 blocks of ice and 35,000 tons of snow, Hôtel de Glace is the only ice hotel in North America. Every winter, a new theme inspires the architecture and the setting of this ephemeral masterpiece. Explore at your own pace to see the Grand Hall, the chapel, the family area, and around 30 rooms and themed suites.
Renaud Philippe
2Discover the Annual Theme
This year, the chosen theme is "Back to the Origins." The décor highlights the four elements: earth, water, air, and fire. There are also references to the history of the Ice Hotel and recognition of its artisans. The Grand Hall, meanwhile, is inspired by the 11 Indigenous Nations of Québec and pays tribute to the Wendat Nation.
- Hôtel de Glace
3Dine at the Very First Ice Restaurant
In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the Ice Hotel has partnered with Fairmont Le Château Frontenac to open the only restaurant in North America entirely made of snow and ice. Enjoy a three-course gourmet meal in a warm and refined atmosphere.
A package including bus transportation from Old Québec is available through Unitours.
Adventure Cities, Mat Willder
4Enjoy the Experience of a Lifetime
Embrace winter with the ultimate Nordic experience: a night at Hôtel de Glace. It’s a night you won’t soon forget and definitely won’t regret! Don’t worry, the temperature in the rooms hovers at around -5 °C (that’s 23 °F), even when it’s -30 °C (-22 °F) outside.
With a sleeping bag that’s good up to -30 °C, an insulating sheet, hot tubs and saunas under the stars (to bring up your body temperature and help you relax), a preparatory information session, and a room at Hôtel Valcartier (where you can leave your luggage and take a shower), you’re sure to have a pleasant stay. Just be sure to pack the right clothing (use the three‑layer rule) and don’t forget your bathing suit!
- Francis Gagnon
5Extend Your Stay at Eastern Canada's Premier Resort
While visiting Hôtel de Glace, make sure to experience the many winter activities at Village Vacances Valcartier, including 35 snow slides, ice skating paths, snow rafting, and the Tornado ride. Craving a tropical climate? Visit Bora Parc, a massive indoor water park.
Hôtel de Glace
2280 boulevard Valcartier
Valcartier (Québec)
G0A 4S0
