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Embrace the Chill: Arctic Vacation Rental Properties

Unearth the allure of arctic vacation home rentals and learn how they can be a lucrative investment. This article delves into what makes these properties special, the types of rentals available, popular locations, common amenities, and how to make your property stand out.

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By Karolyn Hutson

Published on July 7, 2023

The Arctic, a pristine and untouched wilderness, offers a unique vacation experience. As a property owner, investing in an Arctic vacation rental can be lucrative. The Arctic’s unique charm and allure draw in adventurous travelers seeking an escape from the ordinary. With the right property and amenities, you can provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for your guests while enjoying a healthy investment return.

Are you curious about the various types of vacation rental properties?
Our overview of different Airbnb property categories can get you started.

What’s Special about Arctic Vacation Rental Properties

Arctic vacation rentals stand out from the crowd due to their unique location and the unparalleled experiences they offer. These properties are nestled in some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes on earth, offering guests a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.

  • Unique Location: The Arctic’s remote location offers a sense of solitude and tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere.
  • Unforgettable Experiences: From witnessing the Northern Lights to dog sledding, the Arctic offers unique experiences that guests will remember for a lifetime.
  • High Demand: With more travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, Arctic vacation rentals are in high demand.

Types of Arctic House Vacation Rentals

Arctic vacation rentals come in various forms, each offering a unique blend of comfort and adventure. From cozy log cabins to modern, eco-friendly homes, there’s something for every type of traveler.

  • Log Cabins: Traditional, cozy, and warm log cabins offer a rustic Arctic experience.
  • Modern Eco-Homes: These properties offer all the comforts of a modern home while minimizing their environmental impact.
  • Igloos: For the truly adventurous, some Arctic rentals offer the chance to stay in a traditional igloo.
  • Lodge Houses: Larger groups or families might prefer the spaciousness of a lodge house.

Each type of rental offers a unique Arctic experience, catering to different guest preferences and needs.

Arctic vacation homes are typically found in cities that offer easy access to outdoor activities and natural attractions. These cities are gateways to the Arctic wilderness, offering a blend of urban comforts and outdoor adventure.

  • Anchorage, Alaska: Known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife.
  • Fairbanks, Alaska: A prime location for viewing the Northern Lights.
  • Barrow, Alaska: The northernmost city in the United States.
  • Nome, Alaska: Rich in gold rush history and indigenous culture.

Each of these cities offers a unique Arctic experience, making them popular choices for vacation rentals.

Common Amenities for Arctic Vacation Rentals

Arctic vacation rentals often come equipped with amenities designed to enhance the comfort and enjoyment of guests. These include fireplaces, hot tubs, fully equipped kitchens, and Wi-Fi.
Unique amenities for Arctic homes can include:

  • Sauna: A traditional Finnish sauna can be a delightful way to warm up after a day in the cold.
  • Outdoor Fire Pit: Perfect for gathering around and sharing stories under the Northern Lights.
  • Heated Floors: A luxury that adds extra comfort during cold Arctic nights.
  • Snow Gear: Providing snowshoes, sleds, or cross-country skis can enhance guests’ outdoor experiences.
  • Telescope: For stargazing or Northern Lights viewing.
  • Wildlife Viewing Equipment: Binoculars or spotting scopes for guests to observe Arctic wildlife.

Activities and Attractions Near Arctic House Rentals

The Arctic region offers a wealth of unique activities and attractions for guests to enjoy. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone.

  • Northern Lights Viewing: A bucket-list experience for many travelers.
  • Dog Sledding: A thrilling way to explore the Arctic landscape.
  • Ice Fishing: A traditional Arctic pastime.
  • Snowmobiling: An exhilarating way to traverse the snowy terrain.
  • Wildlife Tours: Opportunities to see polar bears, reindeer, and other Arctic wildlife.
  • Cultural Experiences: Visiting local communities to learn about indigenous cultures and traditions.

These activities can provide unforgettable experiences for your guests, enhancing the appeal of your Arctic vacation rental.

How Much Does an Arctic Vacation Home Cost?

The cost of an Arctic vacation home can vary greatly depending on the property’s location, size, and amenities. Generally, prices can range from $200,000 to over $800,000.

  • Anchorage, Alaska: $250,000 – $550,000
  • Fairbanks, Alaska: $200,000 – $400,000
  • Barrow, Alaska: $300,000 – $600,000
  • Nome, Alaska: $200,000 – $450,000

These price ranges are estimates and can vary based on the specific property and market conditions.

What Factors Affect the Cost of Arctic Vacation Properties?

Several factors can affect the cost of arctic vacation rentals. These include the location of the property, its size and condition, the amenities it offers, and the local real estate market.

  • Location: The exact location of the property can greatly affect its cost. Properties situated in popular tourist destinations or those with exceptional views, such as waterfront locations or those with unobstructed views of the Northern Lights, may command higher prices. Conversely, properties in more remote or less accessible areas might be priced lower.
  • Size and Condition: The size of the property, including the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, can directly impact the cost. Larger properties with more sleeping accommodations are often more expensive. Additionally, the condition of the property is crucial. Newly built or recently renovated properties with modern amenities and finishes will typically cost more than older properties that may require updates or repairs.
  • Amenities: A property’s type and quality of amenities can also affect its cost. Properties with unique or high-end amenities, such as private saunas, hot tubs, heated floors, or state-of-the-art kitchen appliances, can often fetch higher prices. Additionally, properties that offer outdoor amenities like snow gear or wildlife viewing equipment may also be more appealing to guests and thus command higher rental rates.
  • Real Estate Market: The state of the local real estate market can greatly impact property prices. Factors such as the local economy, the supply and demand of vacation rentals in the area, and the average cost of properties in the region can all influence the cost of an Arctic vacation rental.

How to Make Your Arctic Rental Stand out to Guests

To make your Arctic rental property stand out to guests, focus on providing a unique and memorable experience. This can be achieved through the property itself, the amenities you offer, and the level of service you provide.

  • Unique Design Elements: Incorporating local materials or artwork can give your property a unique Arctic feel. Cost: Varies.
  • Local Experiences: Offering local experiences, such as guided Northern Lights tours or dog sledding adventures, can make your property more appealing. Cost: $100 – $500 per experience.
  • Personalized Service: Providing personalized services, such as a welcome basket with local products or a customized itinerary, can make guests feel special and enhance their stay. Cost: $50 – $200 per stay.

Our Thoughts

Arctic vacation rental properties offer a unique investment opportunity for property owners. With their unique location, high demand, and unforgettable experiences, these properties can provide a healthy return on investment while offering guests a once-in-a-lifetime vacation experience.

Written by

With over six years of short-term rental hosting experience, Karolyn has helped hundreds of guests have an enjoyable experience. I love writing and am passionate about real estate, hospitality, and photography. Karolyn holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism and enjoys sharing her experiences to help others.