Nestled among one of Iceland’s most famous volcanoes, ÖÖD Hekla Horizon offers a rare kind of escape, thanks to the unique design. The entire property quietly disappears into nature, thanks to the one way glass panels which from the outside mirror the dramatic landscape.
Located at the foot of Mount Hekla in South Iceland, this collection of small cabins is so much more than just a place to rest your head and shower between excursions. The mirrored façades blend seamlessly into the surrounding lava fields and wide-open skies, allowing the architecture to become part of the landscape rather than compete with it.
The setting itself is breathtaking, with Hekla, one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes which has erupted more than twenty times since the country’s settlement in 874 AD, in view from every cabin. Hekla’s snow-capped peak dominates the horizon and serves as a constant reminder of how nature continues to shape this remarkable region.
Inside, floor-to-ceiling windows show off the uninterrupted views of Hekla and endless volcanic plains, creating the sensation of outdoors, indoors. The interior style embraces Scandinavian minimalism, with warm woods, soft textiles, and clean lines ensuring nothing distracts from the scenery, not even a handle or knob.
Every detail has been thoughtfully considered to make guests’ experiences memorable and inviting. From heated bathroom floors and the plush robes and slippers provided to the well-equipped kitchenette complete with a coffee machine and kettle, everything is designed to make it easy to settle in and enjoy your stay. No matter if you’re waking up early to catch the sunrise over Hekla without leaving the comfort of bed or if you’re sipping coffee outside on the deck before bed, it’s hard not to stop and enjoy the stillness and dramatic views.
The mirrored cabins are available in three distinct styles.The standard cabins provide an intimate retreat for couples, while the extended cabins are similar but include private outdoor hot tubs positioned perfectly for soaking beneath open skies with panoramic views of the volcano. Families and small groups can opt for the larger family cabins, which sleep up to four guests and feature their own private sauna, creating an ideal base for exploring South Iceland together.
One of the property’s most distinctive and well loved features is the shared Northern Lights Lounge, a cozy communal space designed for gathering after a day of exploring. Guests can come together in this shared space and relax beside expansive windows with blankets and warm drinks, spend time in the sauna or destress in the outdoor hot tub while admiring the night sky. During winter, the lounge offers an exceptional setting for viewing the Aurora Borealis together as part of a group. However, even outside of aurora season, the area’s minimal light pollution creates spectacular stargazing and in the summer months guests can enjoy Iceland’s midnight sun.
Although many visitors may be tempted to spend their entire stay enjoying the view from ÖÖD Hekla Horizon, it also serves as an excellent base for discovering some of Iceland’s most spectacular natural attractions. Just a short drive from the property is Gjáin, a hidden oasis of moss-covered lava formations, waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams that are a can’t miss destination. Nearby, Háifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, plunges dramatically and will have all visitors in awe.
Adventure seekers will be amazed by the colorful geothermal landscapes of Landmannalaugar, famous for its rainbow-hued rhyolite mountains, steaming hot springs, and some of Iceland’s finest hiking trails. Travelers can also experience Sigöldugljúfur, often called the Valley of Tears for its countless cascading waterfalls, Sigöldufoss, the emerald waters of Lake Frostastaðavatn, and the vivid volcanic crater lake Ljótipollur.
Other must see destinations include Hjálparfoss and Þjófafoss which both do a fantastic job at showcasing the region’s raw beauty. Those willing to venture slightly farther from the accommodations are rewarded with some of Iceland’s most iconic destinations. The lush valleys of Þórsmörk, the glaciers of Eyjafjallajökull, as well as the social media famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where visitors can walk behind the cascading water for the ultimate Iceland photo opportunity.
As Iceland continues to attract travelers searching for extraordinary one-of-a-kind experiences, ÖÖD Hekla Horizon distinguishes itself by offering a quiet escape that feels like you’re in the middle of nature. For travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility, few places capture Iceland’s spirit quite so beautifully.
