The call of the cool-cation is hot! It’s a rising travel trend that trades the tropics for tundra, where icy landscapes restore the spirit and silence becomes the new luxury. It’s a longing to find a place that’s elemental, untouched, and alive.

In this movement toward cold beauty, Iceland leads not simply because of its glaciers, geysers, or the otherworldly glow of the Northern Lights, but because nature is not a backdrop here—it’s front and center.

Where Fire Meets Ice—and Luxury Meets Solitude

Tucked along Iceland’s wild southern coast on a heath, Sorla Camp redefines what is possible in Iceland. This private camp offers an experience as rare as the land! Our host agency was the first to get a glimpse, and all I can say is wow.

Remote, refined, and resolutely serene, it invites just one group at a time to inhabit it fully—no crowds, no noise, no distractions: just your circle, a crackling fire, and the vastness of Iceland stretching in all directions.

At Sorla Camp, the presence of basalt stone is deeply intertwined with the very essence of the landscape. These dark, often hexagonal columns that surround the camp are a dramatic testament to Iceland’s volcanic origins. Formed from the rapid cooling of lava flows, the basalt creates a striking natural architecture, providing both a sense of rugged beauty and a unique geological context for the camp. These ancient stones not only contribute to the stunning 360° views but also serve as a constant reminder of the powerful forces that have shaped this extraordinary island. Their stark beauty provides a dramatic contrast to the luxurious comfort of the camp, creating a truly unforgettable setting.

Accommodations take the form of Nordic tipis—yes, tipis—but reimagined with heated mattresses, woolen duvets, and just steps away, a discreet service house where en-suite facilities, heated overcoats, and warm light create comfort without compromising the raw magic of the surroundings.

Dining by Volcano, Lighted by Stars

Meals at Sorla feel like storytelling—crafted from hyper-local, seasonal ingredients and presented in a way that honors the land they came from. The chef hails from Reykjavík and his creations surprise with their depth and purity. Whether you dine in the glass-wrapped service house, in the open-air gazebo, or wrapped in furs beside a flickering fire, each moment is calibrated for beauty, taste, and connection.

Immersion, the Icelandic Way

Wellness at Sorla is not about checking in at a spa desk. It’s about stepping into geothermal waters beneath a pitch-black sky, wrapped in silence and steam. Imagine the stars! Or the Northern Lights!

You can also indulge in the traditional Icelandic wood saunas and/or the cold plunge. (I prefer the former!) The outdoor showers allow you to commune with nature, surrounded by the mountains that watch over you. Massages are also available, offered in two- or four—handed treatments, alongside curated soundscapes that can soothe or awaken. Personalized sound systems can be set to create meditative or energizing vibes, as desired.

And then, there’s the stillness. Sorla invites you to wander between hammocks, firepits, and lookout decks. What book would you want to be reading? Some Nordic noir? Game of Thrones? Some Jane Austen?

As for he occasional spirited game of axe throwing or darts. The frisbee course is extensive, featuring scenic obstacles and wind to keep things interesting.

Sorla Camp is a retreat that restores the mind, body, and spirit by honoring nature, quiet, and fun.

Offsite Adventure Add-Ons

Craving more? Sorla Camp curates unforgettable excursions tailored to you:

• Winter sports like sledding, snowshoeing & tobogganing
• Horseback riding on iconic Icelandic horses
• E-biking through lava fields and coastlines
• Buggy tours across rugged terrain
• Ice fishing and river fishing (seasonal)
• Guided hikes for all skill levels

For the Bold, the Curious, and the Reverent

Whether you come seeking peace, celebration, or adventure, Sorla offers an endless array of possibilities. Guests can add horseback rides on Icelandic steeds, glacier hikes, lava field e-biking, ice fishing, sledding, and snowshoeing in winter. Everything is bespoke, designed around the pace you desire—slow, deep, or wild. Or all three.

Icelandic Wellness: Two Transformative Retreats Beyond Sorla

For those seeking to extend their Icelandic immersion, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon and Torfhus Retreat offer exquisite alternatives or complements that harmonize luxury with nature and ritual with rest. Each destination invites you deeper into the elements, where mineral-rich waters, ancient traditions, and volcanic landscapes conspire to restore both body and spirit.

Beyond the ethereal allure of the Blue Lagoon itself, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon offers an exclusive sanctuary dedicated to holistic well-being. Here, guests can immerse themselves in the mineral-rich geothermal waters of a private lagoon, indulge in bespoke spa treatments that harness the Lagoon’s transformative powers, and find serenity in architecturally stunning suites designed to connect with the surrounding volcanic landscape. Wellness at The Retreat is an immersive experience that encompasses the restorative properties of geothermal water, mindful dining, yoga, and opportunities for quiet contemplation amidst Iceland’s breathtaking beauty.

This, my friends is The Retreat at Blue Lagoon:

Similarly focused on rejuvenation, Torfhus Retreat provides a unique immersion in Icelandic nature and tranquility. This charming retreat offers guests the opportunity to unwind in traditional turf houses, fostering a deep connection with the island’s rich heritage and serene ambiance. Wellness offerings at Torfhus Retreat often include access to natural hot springs, opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding wilderness, and a focus on slow living and mindful connection with the environment, allowing guests to rediscover a sense of inner calm and well-being amidst Iceland’s restorative embrace.

Isn’t it beautiful?

The World Is Warming. You Don’t Have To Be.

Sorla Camp embodies a new luxury: rooted, rare, and deeply restorative. It’s for those who know that true indulgence isn’t always warm and soft—it can be bracing, bold, or untamed.

And getting there? It’s simpler than ever. With new direct flights to Reykjavík and excellent winter rates, Iceland is no longer once-in-a-lifetime—it’s this year’s best-kept secret. From the airport, a Sorla representative escorts you across a glacial plain by belt buggy or Super Jeep, depending on the season. The journey is part of the spell.

Getting to Iceland Is Easier Than Ever

Icelandair and PLAY offer frequent nonstop flights from major U.S. cities, including:

• New York (JFK & EWR)
• Boston (BOS)
• Washington D.C. (IAD)
• Chicago (ORD)
• Minneapolis (MSP)
• Denver (DEN)
• Seattle (SEA)
• Orlando (MCO)

So, if you’re feeling the pull of the north, listen. Pack your cozy knits, grab a great novel, and leave your heels at home. Come to where the stars burn brighter, and the silence sings. Iceland is calling.