Deep in the Icelandic highlands, you’ll find one of the country’s most adventurous places to stay – the Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll. Surrounded by colourful rhyolite peaks, hot springs and steaming geothermal valleys, this is where you’ll experience Iceland at its wildest.
Whether you’re chasing the northern lights or exploring remote hiking trails, staying at the Kerlingarfjöll Highland Base will put you right at the heart of the action. Read on to learn all you need to know about the hotel.
- Experience this highland retreat on a winter tour of Iceland
Where is the Highland Base hotel in Iceland?
The Highland Base is tucked away in the Ásgarður valley at the edge of Kerlingarfjöll, a mountain range in Iceland’s central highlands.
If you’re coming from Reykjavík, the drive takes 3–4 hours in summer, covering around 200 kilometres (124 miles). In winter, it can take longer, depending on road conditions.
Despite being relatively close to Reykjavík, Kerlingarfjöll feels like a world away from Iceland’s well-trodden sights. Venture here, and you’ll find yourself in an untouched area where surreal landscapes stretch in every direction.
Each morning, you’ll wake up to rolling hills, steam rising from hidden geothermal vents, and views that look like they belong on another planet.
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How can I visit the Kerlingarfjöll mountain resort?
Given its remote location in the Icelandic highlands, you can’t reach Highland Base by public transport.
The rugged mountain roads leading to the Highland Base aren’t serviced in winter. This means you can only reach the resort in a 4x4 superjeep driven by a professional guide.
Consider joining a 4x4 highland tour of Iceland in winter that includes a stay at the Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll. You’ll have the freedom to explore on your own and enjoy experiences like storytelling and stargazing.
Alternatively, if you’re visiting in summer, you’ll need a 4x4 vehicle to get there. This is because you’ll drive on F-roads – the unpaved mountain roads that wind through central Iceland and other remote areas. The “F” stands for “fjalla,” the Icelandic word for mountain.
- Get road trip ready with this guide to driving in Iceland
What type of accommodation is available?
The hotel offers both deluxe and standard rooms. And, if you’re visiting Iceland with kids, family rooms are also available.
The rooms were designed in a minimalistic and cosy Nordic style. There’s no TV, but you won’t miss it. In the deluxe category and suites, a large window frames breathtaking views of the Kerlingarfjöll mountains. Trust us, you’ll be too captivated by the views to even think about a screen!
You’ll find comfortable accommodation for groups at the Highland Base Lodges. These sleep up to 4 people and have comfy lounges where you can unwind after exploring.
If you visit in summer, you could stay in A-frame huts or on the Highland Base camping grounds. You’ll have kitchen and bathroom access in a nearby facilities block and can enjoy the midnight sun surrounded by untouched nature.
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Does the Highland Base have a restaurant?
Yes, the Highland Base has an onsite restaurant serving seasonal Icelandic dishes.
If you’re staying at the hotel, a breakfast buffet is included. And, if you’re heading out hiking, the hotel team can prepare a packed breakfast or lunch to fuel your adventure. When you return, grab a drink and put your feet up in the communal lounge.
You don’t need to stay at the Highland Base to visit the restaurant, though. You can also stop by for a bite if you’re just passing through.
Top things to do at the Highland Base
As the gateway to Iceland’s central highlands, the hotel puts you within easy reach of some unforgettable experiences. Whether you're after adrenaline-packed adventures or a chance to slow down, you'll find plenty to suit your pace.
1. Soak in geothermal baths
The Kerlingarfjöll resort is home to the Highland Baths, an idyllic geothermal spa on the banks of the Ásgarðsá river. The baths are heated by mineral water from a natural hot spring 975 metres (3,200 feet) beneath the ground.
You could enjoy geothermal bathing, take a refreshing dip in the cold plunge pool, and then warm up in the steam room. There’s even a bar where you can grab a drink while you soak in the views of the surrounding highlands.
The spa is free for hotel guests, but you can also pay to enter if you stay in the huts or campsite.
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2. Venture into the wilderness on a hike
Iceland’s highlands are a world-famous destination for hikers and outdoor lovers. You’ll find several trails around the Kerlingarfjöll mountain base, with paths for all ages and skill levels.
One of the best trails leads to Hveradalir (“Valley of Hot Springs”), a stunning geothermal valley filled with hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and steaming fumaroles. Like most routes in the area, you can tackle this 8-kilometre (5-mile) trail on your own or join a guided hike.
Other walking trails lead you to glacier-fed rivers and snowy peaks. For the best local tips, ask the hotel staff to recommend their favourite routes.
- Related: The best hikes in Iceland
3. Experience adrenaline-fuelled adventures
If you prefer heart-pumping activities, the Highland Base is the ideal starting point for outdoor adventures. Explore the rugged highlands on all-terrain buggy tours and e-mountain biking excursions led by experienced guides.
In winter, the surrounding mountains are often blanketed in snow, and you can make the most of the conditions on thrilling snowmobile rides. Zoom across the ice with a local guide and snap photos of the snow-dusted peaks.
4. Chase the northern lights
Another unmissable winter activity at Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll is hunting the northern lights. The highlands are one of the best places in Iceland to see the aurora borealis, as they’re secluded and far from bright city lights.
Travel between October and April when winter’s long nights give you more opportunities to glimpse this natural phenomenon. Don’t forget to check the aurora forecast to boost your chances of spotting them. On clear nights, you can watch the sky come alive with green, red, and pink hues.
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Other must-see places in the highlands
Kerlingarfjöll is just one corner of Iceland’s wild interior. If you have extra time, it’s worth venturing into other parts of the highlands to see more of the country’s unspoiled nature.
These areas are only accessible on your own in summer, and like the Highland Base, you’ll need a 4x4 to reach them safely.
1. Landmannalaugar – a hiker’s paradise
The highland region of Landmannalaugar is famous for its multi-coloured mountains, geothermal hot springs, and legendary hikes. This is the starting point of the Laugavegur trail, a multi-day trek that stretches to Þórsmörk, crossing lava fields and rhyolite peaks.
If you’re not ready for the whole trail, there are plenty of shorter routes too. These include the scenic loop through the Laugahraun lava field or the hike up Bláhnjúkur volcano (meaning “Blue Peak”).
2. Þórsmörk – the “Valley of Thor”
Þórsmörk, pronounced “Thorsmork”, is home to glaciers, rivers, and volcanic craters. If you love hiking, you’ll find Iceland’s most rewarding trails here, including climbing Mount Valahnúkur.
3. Hveravellir – a geothermal wonderland
Nestled between 2 ice caps – Langjökull and Hofsjökull – Hveravellir is one of Iceland's most breathtaking geothermal areas.
Here you can bathe in natural hot pools year-round, with views stretching across an ancient lava field. What more could you ask for?
4. Askja – a former NASA training ground
The Askja volcanic caldera in the northern highlands is stark and eerily beautiful. Thanks to its lunar-like landscape, NASA used the area to train astronauts in the 1960s.
The main highlight here is the Víti crater. You can walk around the rim for the best views, but be cautious as there are no railings to hold onto.
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Experience the Highland Base with Nordic Visitor
Now you know what to expect at Iceland's Highland Base, it's time to start planning your getaway. Spend your days hiking through colourful mountains, relaxing in natural hot springs, and chasing the northern lights.
When you book with Nordic Visitor, you can experience the Highland Base on a winter tour of Iceland. A Reykjavík-based travel expert will arrange your accommodation, local transport, and activities.
If you want the freedom to go at your own pace, opt for a self-drive tour that includes a stay at the Highland Base. Explore Iceland’s Golden Circle and south coast independently, then enjoy a private transfer from Reykjavík to this remote hotel.
Alternatively, take a private tour to experience the country’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide. They’ll show you hidden gems and help you to see Iceland from a local’s perspective.
Or choose a multi-day trip if you want to explore independently and join daily guided excursions into the countryside.
Contact us to book your adventure to the Kerlingarfjöll Highland Base and get ready to uncover the best of Iceland’s remote highlands in comfort.
