5 Reasons to Visit the Hôtel de Glace in Québec City

Équipe édito
Editorial Team
Updated on December 14, 2023
Aerial view of the Hôtel de Glace site in Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier, near Québec.
Dany Vachon

Québec is the perfect winter city to spend magical snow‑filled moments with family, friends, or that special someone. Hôtel de Glace (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.

Here are 5 reasons to tour the hotel while you’re in Québec City:

  • 1

    Marvel at the Architecture

    Built with 2,400 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. Wander around at your own pace to see the Grand Hall, the chapel, the family area, and around 30 rooms and themed suites.

  • 2

    Discover the Annual Theme

    The 2024 edition will transport visitors on an extraordinary adventure through time. Under the captivating theme of "Timeline", every room, every suite, every corridor of Hôtel de Glace will tell the story of a period in history, from ancient to modern times.

  • 3

    Sip Cocktails Served in an Ice Glass

    Take a break and warm up by a fireplace while you enjoy a cocktail from the ice bar. Try the Windshield Washer, the Ski‑Doo Crash, or one of the many other signature cocktails! 

  • 4

    Enjoy 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!

  • 5

    Extend your Stay at the Most Important Resort in Eastern Canada

    While you’re at Hôtel de Glace, be sure to try all the great winter activities at Village Vacances Valcartier, including the 35 snow slides, the ice skating paths, snow Rafting and the Tornado.  Feel for tropical climate? Head to Bora Parc, the huge indoor water park.

    ecoA shuttle service is offered by Unitours from Old Québec.

You'll Also Like

  • A Native American dancer performs a traditional dance inside the longhouse in Wendake, near Québec City.
    The Best Experiences to Discover the Indigenous Culture
    Read
  • People walk in the evening on rue du Petit-Champlain, covered with snow and decorated with many illuminated trees.
    6 Magical Spots to Enjoy Québec City’s Holiday Sparkle
    Read
  • A couple walk on the Pierre-Dugua-De Mons terrace near Avenue Saint-Denis, looking at the Château Frontenac.
    10 Best Things to Do in Old Québec City
    Read
  • Guided walking tour in Old Québec
    Walking Tours in Québec City
    Read
  • Cyclistes en vélo de montagne dans le Vieux-Québec
    Bike Tours in Québec City
    Read
  • Yoga at Monastère des Augustines
    A Wellness Retreat at Le Monastère des Augustines
    Read