Hotels transform into real winter wonderlands with ice bars and heated igloos

The weather outside has truly been frightful this week as snow blanketed much of the UK.

While it seems a white Christmas might be on the cards plenty of Brits aren’t enjoying the low temperatures.

Winter weather can be lots of fun and feel super cosy if you’re surrounded by good food, comfy blankets and a warm environment.

READ MORE: Best value European ski resorts for Brits wanting a cheap winter holiday in 2023

Not so fun if you’re freezing cold at home…

For those who want to do winter weather the right way there are two hotels that may just make you fall in love with snow.

The Samoset Resort in Maine, US, is a snow covered wonderland while sister resort The Sagamore sits on a frozen lake in New York State.

In winter the Samoset resort’s golf course is often coated in soft white powder while the Atlantic looms in the background – and sunsets make the whole area glow.

Not only that, but the hotel ensures that the resort’s winter wonderland style is brought to the top of its game each year.

The Sagamore is right on the edge of Lake George and features lodges, an 1883 elegant hotel, condos and even stand alone houses that are surrounded by the icy water.

Around 50,000lbs of ice blocks are delivered to the Samoset and Sagamore each January to be carved into delicate sculptures and winter art.

Some are also used to create the annual Opal Glacier Ice Bar and Lounge.

The ice bar is a winter tradition and has taken place in Rockport since 2014 and will come to both hotels for a number of weekends.

Inside everything within is built from ice from the bar to the sofa, chairs, tables and even glasses.

It means you’ll be able to sip from the coldest cocktails possible.

On top of the usual ice furniture there are also interactive themed pieces and photo spots.

In 2020 the Samoset resort chose a farm theme and the Sagamore went for a 1920’s style.

This year the chosen theme is “Arctic Wild”, with heaps of ice sculptures of everything from polar bears to walruses.

You’ll have to wrap up to enjoy the ice bar, but if you’re still a little chilly when you leave you can enjoy the hot tubs to warm up.

Those who reserve the Hot Tub Suite at the Samoset can feel the warm bubbles while watching the snow fall from their balcony.

While in the evening, guests can roast s’mores (that’s biscuits with marshmallows and chocolate) around the fireplace in the lobby.

Last year there were also heated igloos at the Samoset where holidaymakers could dine with a view of the snow, but this year they’re only available at sister resort the Sagamore Resort.

Both the New York hotel and the Maine hotel are the perfect setting for a festive holiday.

Those who visit the Samoset can enjoy the nearby Camden Snow Bowl – you can ski on 20 runs, go tobogganing and even night ski under the moonlight.

Adult passes start from just $35 (£28).

Meanwhile anyone who hops over to the New York Sagamore can explore the Adirondack mountains or make traditional Christmas crafts in the hotel.

Rooms at the Sagamore this winter start from $364 a night (that’s £293) while those at the Samoset start at $199 (£160).*

Prices vary throughout the year, but the Ice Bar is only available on specific dates in January.

You can find out more tat opalcollection.com

* Prices were correct at the time of publishing but vary by day.

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