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Your Skiing Adventure in the Icelandic Highlands

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Hand-crafted, luxury experiences curated by our team—speak to our concierge to learn more

Price available on enquiry

More information available upon request. Minimum duration may apply.
Please read our terms and conditions before booking.

Hveradalir, nestled in the picturesque Kerlingarfjöll mountain range, is a true gem of Iceland's volcanic landscape. Located in the central highlands of the country, Hveradalir is a geothermal wonderland that captivates visitors with its surreal beauty.

The name Hveradalir translates to "Valley of Hot Springs," and it perfectly describes the unique characteristics of this area. The valley is formed by a series of steaming hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and vibrant geothermal vents. As you explore Hveradalir, you'll be greeted by a symphony of colors, with hues ranging from vibrant blues and greens to fiery reds and oranges. It's a visual feast that will leave you in awe. Prepare to be mesmerized by the kaleidoscope of colors that adorn Hveradalir's landscape, from vibrant reds and oranges to soothing blues and greens. The area's geothermal features, including steaming hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and dazzling fumaroles, create a surreal and unforgettable experience.

The Experience

Located in the heart of Iceland's central highlands, this stunning property stands as a beacon of hospitality and adventure amidst the raw, untouched beauty of the Kerlingarfjöll mountain range. This remote oasis is not just a resort; it's a basecamp for explorers seeking to immerse themselves in nature's most dramatic displays. Whether you're here in the shimmering summer or the mystical winter, your stay promises an unforgettable journey.

A stay at this resort is more than just a holiday; it’s an expedition into the heart of Iceland's majestic, untamed wilderness. From the moment you arrive, every detail is designed to enhance your connection with this extraordinary landscape. Whether you're scaling mountain trails or soaking in geothermal baths, this is your home in the highlands, a place where adventure and tranquility coexist in perfect harmony.

Backcountry Ski Course

Season: October - July

Transport: Meet your guide at the hotel. We will arrange your own transport to access the hike departure site.

Duration: 8 hours w/lunch break at Highland Base

Distance: 1-3 km depending on snow conditions and skill level

Elevation gain: 3-500 meters depending on snow, weather, and experience

Skill & fitness level: Beginner to Explorer. Adjusted to participant fitness level

Gear included: All necessary ski equipment, avalanche safety gear, ski helmet and ski goggles. Split board option available on request.

You bring: Warm clothes and socks, wind- and waterproof jacket, gloves, buff, hat and sunglasses. Water and snacks

Min/Max: 4/6 pax

Minimum age: 12 yrs

Description

Icelanders have learned to ski in the remote and beautiful mountain range of Kerlingarfjöll for decades and now you can too!

Learn the basics from the best. Your elite ski guides teach skiing at all levels and will also cover the main subjects of safe backcountry etiquette and avalanche awareness.y

You will start by going over the basics of backcountry skiing, before heading up the slopes for a fun ride down. After a couple of runs we will return to Highland base for a hearty lunch break before heading out again to show those slopes what we are made of.

Nordic Ski Course

Season: October - July

Transport: Meet your guide at the hotel. No transport needed.

Duration: 6 hours w/lunch break at Highland Base (Lunch not included)

Distance: 3-5 km depending on snow conditions

Elevation gain: Mostly flat

Skill & fitness level: Novice to Explorer. Adjusted to participant fitness level

Gear included: Nordic skis, boots, poles

You bring: Warm clothes and socks, wind- and waterproof jacket, gloves, buff, hat, and sunglasses. Water and snacks

Min/Max: 4/12 pax

Minimum age: 12 yrs

There is absolutely no better way to explore Icelandic nature during winter than on Nordic skis. This is how the early explorers navigated to both poles and is still the preferred method of travel for all polar and glacier expeditions.

Nordic skis are similar to Cross Country skis, only slightly broader and thus better suited for venturing into the wild. In this course you will learn from our expert guides the basics of the time-honored tradition of nordic skiing and enjoy exploring the magnificent highland landscape of Kerlingarfjöll mountains.

This course adapts to the current snow and ice conditions.

Scenic Nordic Ski Tour

Season: October-July

Transport: Meet your guide at the hotel. No transport needed.

Duration: 4-5 hours

Distance: 10-12 km depending on snow conditions

Elevation gain: Mostly flat but some moderate uphill and downhill

Skill & fitness level: Beginner to Explorer. Moderate to fit

Gear included: Nordic skis, boots, poles

You bring: Warm clothes and socks, wind- and waterproof jacket, gloves, buff, hat and sunglasses. Water, snacks, and a light lunch.

Min/Max: 4/16 pax

Minimum age: 12 yrs

A sightseeing expedition that takes us over the plains north of the mountain range. The mission is to reach the towering Lodmundur summit in all its magnificent glory.

You will be heading east with Hofsjökull Glacier on your left and Kerlingarfjöll mountain range on your right. In front you'll see the tower of Loðmundur as it grows bigger by each step on your trusted skis.

You will set up camp below Lodmundur and enjoy your lunch with the robust appetite that only outdoor activities bring. After lunch break you'll head back along a different and a bit more challenging route towards the resort, skiing along Asgarðsfjall, the mountain of the gods.

This tour adapts to the current snow and ice situation.

Hot Spring Ski Tour

Season: October - July

Transport: Meet your guide at the hotel. Arrange your own transport to access the tour departure site.

Duration: 4 hours, depending on conditions

Distance: 5-7 km, depending on snow conditions and skill level

Elevation gain: 500-1000 meters, depending on snow, weather and experience

Skill & fitness level: Tourer Moderate to fit.

Gear included: All necessary ski equipment, avalanche safety gear, ski helmet and ski goggles. Split board option available on request.

You bring: Warm clothes and socks, wind- and waterproof jacket, gloves, buff, hat and sunglasses. Water and snacks.

Min/Max: 4/6 pax

Minimum age: 12 yrs

Description

A ski tour like you have never experienced before, over a glacier and around amazing hot springs! 

After a thorough safety brief, you'll skin up, over a small glacier and up to the so-called Smile (you will understand when you see it!). Then expect to carve the turns down an amazing slope that leads you to a bubbling hot spring area. After some exploration, you'll skin back up to the Smile and swoosh back down to where you started.

What to Pack for Your Highland Adventure

Iceland's weather, notorious for its unpredictability, requires visitors to be prepared for anything. The key? Layers. In summer, the days can be pleasantly warm, but evenings often bring a chill. Winter, on the other hand, is a frosty and often windswept wonderland. A checklist for your luggage:

  • Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots are essential. Pair these with heavy socks for warmth and cushioning.

  • Outerwear: Waterproof pants and insulated coats are non-negotiable. Icelandic weather can change in the blink of an eye. In winter, a down jacket is essential.

  • Accessories: Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and scarf. Even in summer, they can be lifesavers.

  • Extras: Pack a bathing suit for the geothermal baths, sunglasses for the bright days, and cozy clothes for lounging at the hotel.

  • Essentials: A torch or headlight is invaluable, especially for nocturnal walks to the old baths.

Remember, the highlands are isolated—no stores, no gas stations. So, pack thoughtfully! And fill your tank if you’re arriving by car.

Your Accommodation - The Lodges

The ultimate accommodations for your Icelandic adventure. With a sunken lounge area and deep picture windows revealing remarkable views of Kerlingarfjöll, each lodge is a lavish staging ground for highland adventuring.

Designed for two or four people, these private structures bring extreme comfort and festive coziness.

Guests have the option of either a Lodge (maximum occupancy: 2 guests) or a Lodge with a sofa bed (maximum occupancy: 4 guests).

Inclusions

Enjoy complimentary enhancements:

  • Buffet breakfast

  • Storytelling & welcome drink (winter only)

  • Stargazing (winter only)

  • Geothermal baths

Amenities

  • Lounge area

  • Large window with a view

  • Private bathroom with shower

  • Hairdryer, towels,

  • Shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, hand lotion, hand soap

  • Coffee/tea facilities

  • Minibar with selection of soft drinks, beer & snacks

  • Board games and books

  • Room service

  • Luggage service

Dining

The restaurant is an 80-seat refuge of cozy warmth, savory nourishment, and festive vibes. From coffee and waffles to bistro comfort food and buffet dining, we have something for every appetite.

The resort also offer meals-to-go with their breakfast and lunch takeaway packages. Perfect to grab with you on your adventure.

The lounge, located above the restaurant, combines communal togetherness with captivating views of Kerlingarfjöll. Enjoy light refreshments and trade stories with your fellow adventure-seekers.

The Geothermal Baths

Take part in a beloved Icelandic tradition. Take pleasure in the earth's natural heat. Here, the facilities include a trio of steaming pools, a sauna, a cold plunge pool, changing rooms, and underground passageways connecting to the hotel.

How to get here in the summer

From Reykjavík, the trip takes approximately 3.5 hours, covering nearly 200 kilometers—a voyage moving from paved highways to the challenging and desolate gravel roads of the country’s interior. If arriving by rental car, guests must verify that the vehicle is insured for Iceland's mountain F roads.

How to get here in the winter

The highland routes are not serviced during wintertime. During the winter, the resort can only be reached with a 4x4 super jeep driven by a professional which we can arrange.

Price available on enquiry

More information available upon request. Minimum duration may apply.
Please read our terms and conditions before booking.

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