Hotel of the Month: Sörla Camp – Iceland’s Private Summer Wilderness Hideaway

Sörla Camp is the epitome of understated luxury. Set in southwest Iceland beside the Þjórsá river, just over an hour from Reykjavík, it is reserved exclusively for your group, creating a calm and completely private oasis.

Summer is an ideal time to escape here. The long daylight hours give you room to slow down and totally immerse yourself in the experience, whether you’re taking an easy walk to one of the many viewpoints, relaxing in the hot pool or simply sitting outside with a coffee. Depending on the day, you may spot sheep and Icelandic horses in the surrounding countryside, adding to the sense that you are far away from the madding crowd.

You stay in one of four Nordic tipis, each a generous 45 square metres and designed to feel comfortable rather than rustic. Inside you will find convertible twin or king size Jensen beds, fine linens, a Nespresso machine, minibar and Sonos sound system. There is high speed Wi-Fi throughout, but no television, which suits the setting.

inside the tipi tents at sorla camp 2
northern lights at sorla camp

The Sörlatunga lounge meanwhile is where you can settle in with wide views, while the gazebo is set up for long, leisurely meals with doors that open out to the landscape when the weather allows.

When you want to totally switch off, Sörla Baths bring together a geothermal hot pool with continuous fresh water flow, a cold plunge, a wood sauna and an outdoor shower.

Both a host and chef are on site and the experience can be tailored to personal preference, from a more hands-off stay to fully hosted dining built around quality Icelandic ingredients. If you want to be active, summer options such as hiking, biking, horseback riding and fishing can be arranged.

If you’re planning a little further ahead, winter turns Sörla into a quieter retreat under dark skies that are tailormade for northern lights viewing, with seasonal activities and a very different atmosphere.