Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll opened in 2023 on the site of a former summer ski school in Iceland's Ásgarður Valley, a 3.5-hour drive from Reykjavik through 124 miles of mostly unpaved roads. The property sits inside Kerlingarfjöll, a nature reserve since 2020, and marks the ski school's closure in 2000 when snowfields shrank.
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon group operates Highland Base with multiple accommodation types. Lodge prices for summer and fall 2027 start at $1,097 per night, while hotel rooms start at $502. The property includes 46 rooms and two suites, six lodges, seven A-frame huts, and a campsite. Campsite spots run $25 per adult per night from June 15 to September 30 in 2027.
Highland Base features geothermal mineral baths overlooking the valley, a restaurant serving à la carte dinners with changing menus, and a daily Icelandic waffle bar from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. The property's only restaurant serves breakfast as a buffet for hotel and lodge guests, with takeaway boxes available for day trips.
Guided activities include hiking to Hveradalir (Valley of Hot Springs), e-bike tours, and buggy rides through volcanic terrain. Visitors can also explore independently with staff guidance on trails and conditions. Hiking boots, poles, crampons, and waterproof clothing are available for rent.
Shoulder season visits in September and October offer daylight for hiking plus northern lights viewing potential. The property suggests booking departing flights at least 24 hours after checkout due to unpredictable winter weather. From June through September, the mountain road is open for F-road-approved 4x4 vehicles or property bus transfers available Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays in June and September, and daily in July and August. Starting in October, only super jeep transfers with professional drivers operate, departing Thursdays and Fridays for arrivals, with returns on Saturdays and Sundays.