An undated photo depicts the bizarre exterior of Barin Hotel in the Alborz mountain range, northern Iran.

Resembling a windswept ice-rock formation, some believe it is a fierce contender for the coolest mountain hotels ever.

The basic concept of a cube-shaped structure was superseded by an idea inspired by the snow-covered landscape. Its pebble-shaped windows offer detailed views of the mountains.

The ski season there usually starts from late November and can stretch all the way through to May.

AFM/MG