Exploring the Exotic Wilderness of Iceland and a Stay at the Hotel Husafell.
There are many reasons people travel. Some jet off to bustling cities for food festivals or concerts, while others head out for a shopping spree on streets like Rodeo Drive. For the culture enthusiasts, a trip might entail catching a new play or visiting a museum exhibit. Another motivation to travel is embarking on an adventure to experience exotic and untamed nature in a distant land. Iceland stands out as one of the most remarkable destinations for such an adventure, boasting unfamiliar landscapes with glaciers, geysers, and waterfalls waiting to be explored. Nestled in Western Iceland, Hotel Husafell serves as the perfect home base to uncover the wonders of this remarkable region.
The hotel rests in the heart of Western Iceland, approximately two hours from Reykjavik. The journey to reach the hotel treats travelers to a constant visual feast of breathtaking scenery and otherworldly landscapes. Situated near a quaint village, the hotel provides easy access to nature’s marvels. There is a plethora of activities to partake in, including relaxing in geothermal pools, marveling at waterfalls, scaling mountains and canyons, exploring lava caves, and much more. From September to April, the sparse population and minimal light pollution make it an ideal spot to witness the enchanting Northern Lights. In fact, Forbes Magazine has recognized it as one of the prime locations globally to witness the Aurora Borealis.
After a day of adventure, the hotel offers a sanctuary of creature comforts that redefine eco-luxury. Luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and lavish amenities await guests. Owing to its unique features, location, and offerings, the hotel has been selected as part of National Geographic Unique Lodges, a curated collection of hotels dedicated to sustainability, authenticity, and top-notch service.
Hotel Husafell stands out for its commitment to sustainability, utilizing 100% renewable geothermal energy harnessed from its private in-house plant. The technology behind this endeavor taps into the heat beneath the surface to power turbines, while the steam generated is channeled through pipes to heat the facilities, accommodations, and flooring. It stands as the sole hotel in Iceland that operates fully on sustainable energy and is constructed using renewable and sustainable materials.
Surrounded by the stunning nature of the dramatic Central Highlands, replete with woodlands, farms, and close proximity to one of Europe’s largest glaciers, the hotel offers a picturesque setting. The Husafell settlement lies nearby featuring a few houses, with many serving as weekend retreats for urban dwellers. Notable sculptor Páll Guðmundsson, renowned for crafting striking stone faces from lava stone, hails from this town, with his captivating pieces adorning the hotel’s interiors.
Hotel Husafell’s strategic location in Western Iceland allows guests to explore the region’s wonders and adventures. A visit to the impressive Hraunfossar waterfalls, with its powerful waters cascading through a rocky canyon, or a tour of Langjökull, Europe’s third-largest glacier accessible through guided hikes, snowmobile rides, or super jeep experiences, are a must. Another fascinating site to explore is Vidgelmir, Iceland’s largest lava cave. To unwind after a day of exploration, a relaxing soak in the Húsafell Canyon Baths, geothermal hot springs nestled amidst mountains, is highly recommended.
Designed for exploration, Hotel Husafell boasts striking architecture with geometric shapes and towering rooftops that seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings. The interiors exude a modern and minimalist Scandinavian influence, featuring raw wood surfaces, earth-toned tiles, and artworks by local artisans such as Guðmundsson. The hotel offers two restaurants, a bar, and ample tranquil spaces to unwind. Outdoors, guests can enjoy two geothermally heated pools, hot tubs, and a nine-hole golf course.
The hotel’s low-rise structure comprises 48 contemporary accommodations ranging from rooms to suites, all equipped with heated floors and cozy furnishings. The bright and modern rooms are tastefully adorned with Icelandic elements like sheepskin chairs, paintings by Páll Guðmundsson, and local bathroom amenities. The suites impress with separate living areas and spacious bathrooms featuring large baths, separate showers, and rich earth-tone tiles. Many rooms come with outdoor terraces offering breathtaking views of the natural surroundings.
To fuel up for the adventures, guests can indulge in the gourmet dining experience at Hotel Husafell. The restaurant presents a delightful fusion of Icelandic and international cuisine crafted from seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby producers. From locally harvested Westfjords scallops served with brown butter, orange ponzu, and roasted walnuts, to birch-smoked lamb filet glazed in whey and coated with lavender, the menu celebrates authentic flavors. For the adventurous palate, the Icelandic game meat menu provides a Viking-inspired dining experience.
For avid nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, Iceland offers a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, numerous waterfalls, glaciers, and canyons to explore. Hotel Husafell serves as the perfect hub to experience all the wonders this remarkable destination has to offer.
Image Source: Into The Glacier
