Each spring, blocks are cut from the frozen Torne River and stored. Come winter, they become a hotel. Artists from many countries are invited to design the art suites, so no two seasons look the same.

Sleeping on ice sounds harsh. In practice, guests get thermal sleeping bags on reindeer hides, and warm rooms and chalets are on hand nearby. Most people try one cold night and spend the rest in comfort.

A permanent building, Icehotel 365, keeps ice suites open all year using solar-powered cooling. Around it lie the northern lights in winter, midnight sun in summer, and Kiruna a short drive away.