Glass Cabins in Iceland Offer Immersive Stays Under the Northern Lights and Nordic Skies

In the stark, volcanic landscapes of southern Iceland, a unique architectural concept offers an intimate connection with the Arctic environment. Harmony Retreat Lodge, located a short drive from Reykjavik and near the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, features two exclusive glass-walled cabins designed to dissolve the boundaries between humans and the surrounding tundra.

Conceived by Djamel Cheboub, who sought healing and disconnection in Iceland, and developed with Studio Bloom Paris, the project aimed to create a sanctuary of absolute calm. The contemporary Estonian-style cabins, named Lilja and Georg, are approximately 26 square meters each and clad in charred wood. Their defining feature is the floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows on three sides and a glass ceiling directly above the king-size bed, offering an immersive experience of sleeping under the open sky while protected from the elements.

The design intentionally turns Iceland's often harsh weather into a spectacle. From the comfort of the cabins or the outdoor jacuzzi, guests can witness the rapid passage of storm clouds, the ethereal glow of the midnight sun in summer, or the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights during winter nights. To preserve the pristine darkness of the Icelandic sky, the property eschews artificial exterior lighting, enveloping guests in a magical ambiance illuminated solely by starlight.

Beyond the architectural immersion, the retreat offers a private wellness experience. Each cabin includes an outdoor Nordic hot tub and a glass-enclosed panoramic sauna, both providing views of the Eyjafjöll mountain. Soaking in the hot tub amidst falling snow or after exploring lava fields becomes a ritual of well-being and disconnection. The lodge's prime location also serves as an excellent base for exploring the South Coast's attractions.