For his 24e year of existence, the Ice Hotel has a new theme based around the history of humanity, but also music, fashion and literature.
The hotel, located in Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier, was designed this year by a new artistic director who participated in the building’s sculptures for several years, Guy Olivier Deveau. “Its theme, called The Timeline, tells in an artistic way how humanity has grown over time,” explains Sandra Nadeau, vice-president of sales, marketing and communications at Village Vacances Valcartier. “The 22 themed suites will all be worth visiting, each with a unique work of art. »
Around fifty people, including 15 sculpting artists, have been working on the building for more than four weeks already. “They work day, evening, night… at any time slot where Mother Nature collaborates,” explains Mme Nadeau.
However, the weather was terrible at the start of the week, with several millimeters of rain falling on the province between Sunday evening and Tuesday. “The rain delayed our construction site by two days, but according to our engineers, the damage was mostly superficial. The structure was not affected too much. »
PHOTO ANNE-MARIE DESMARAIS, PROVIDED BY THE VALCARTIER HOLIDAY VILLAGE
Around fifty people have been working on the building for more than four weeks already.
Consequently, the Village Vacances Valcartier, where the Ice Hotel stands, is staying on course for the opening dates. “We are still targeting December 26 for daily visits, even if not all the rooms will be finished and there will still be work to do in the common areas. »
On January 4, the first nights will be offered in the 10 rooms that will be completed. The entire Hotel – including the 30 rooms, the chapel, the ice bar and the children’s play area with its ice slide – should be ready by mid-January.
“This year, we worked very hard on the lighting,” explains Sandra Nadeau. We wanted to improve the visual experience in the evening, but also during the day with lighting through ice or snow. We see that this aspect is increasingly important for visitors with the appearance of numerous light shows such as Foresta Lumina in Coaticook. »
Several packages will be in effect for those who wish to experience an overnight stay or simply visit the Hotel. Please note: the asking price will be adjusted according to the proportion of rooms completed at the time of the visit. When everything is ready, the price for people 1.32 m and over will be $29.99 online and $34.99 on site. For the youngest, you will have to pay $24.99 for each ticket purchased online.