The Travelling Celts

A Night in an Ice Hotel

by Michael Cameron

Bâlea Lake Ice Hotel, the first ice hotel in Eastern Europe was built in 2006 in Romania, deep in the Făgăraș Mountains, at an elevation of 2034 meters above sea level. At winter, it is only accessible by cable car, since the national road DN7, the Transfăgărășan, is closed.

This picturesque setting is next to Bâlea Lake, where each year local craftsmen wait for the lake to freeze, before using the ice to build the small 12-room Ice Hotel and its adjacent Ice Church, Ice Restaurant and Ice Bar. Local artists imitate sculptures by Romanian modernist sculptor, Constantin Brâncuși. Typically the hotel is completed in December and is open until it melts in late March or April.

Bedding, furs, specialist sleeping bags are all provided, with bathroom facilities nearby. There are two chalets within walking distance, which also provide accommodation. Activities such as skiing, sledging or riding a snow bike are on offer. Those who are more organised and adventurous can arrange heliskiing.

Part of Denise's 50th birthday present, we stayed for one night - with no other guests mind you, as it was early April and the spring temperatures were beginning to take their toll. It was a unique, if somewhat chilly, experience.

Click the links below for the Ice Hotel photos and/or videos