Highland Base by Basalt Architects, Reykjavic, Iceland
Straddling rugged adventure and luxurious retreat, this must-stay destination offers a mix of accommodation types depending on your party size and budget. Whether it’s a campsite or comforting hotel room, larger style suite, or luxury lodge you need, all options offer a unique Nordic experience oozing with rustic charm and paired-back home comforts.
Constructed to exist in harmony with nature and to withstand the harsh Icelandic elements, Highland Base was developed by the design teams at the Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik-based Basalt Architects, and Design Group Italia.
Within the wood-panelled exterior of the hotel you’ll find 46 rooms, two suites with private hot tubs, and six standalone lodges. While the Highland Base Huts, which are perfect for families or small groups, offer flexible all year-round self-catering accommodation.
And, if that wasn’t enough during the summer months you can also pitch a tent or caravan at the Highland Base Camp, which has communal facilities including toilets, showers, a kitchen, and an outdoor grill at the dedicated ‘Service House’.
Guests at Highland Base also get to rest and relax in a dedicated lounge, as well as dine at the onsite restaurant, which if it’s half as good as the restaurant at the Blue Lagoon is sure to be a culinary experience to remember.
Speaking of which, if you’re looking to indulge in the beloved Icelandic tradition of bathing in geothermal water, you’ll be glad to know that a series of underground passageways also connect the hotel to a trio of steaming pools, a sauna and a cold plunge pool.
Which, after a day hiking, mountain biking or skiing around the network of trails that surround Highland Base may be just what the doctor ordered.
All images courtesy of Highland Base.
