Iceland is still in the Top Ten locations for Wellness Travel.Iceland is unique. From the rugged, almost alien like terrain to the food you will discover along your journey around the Ring Road. Iceland is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, from towering mountains and active volcanoes to sprawling glaciers, rivers, hot springs, and caves. But don’t worry—it’s also a warm and welcoming land for the rest of us!In August 2024 I stayed at MidgardBase Camp and partook in their Super Jeep daytour/hike at Þórsmörk (Thorsmork) Nature Reserve, or “Valley of Thor,” named after the Thunder God Thor, is one of Iceland’s most stunning areas, known for its sweeping views, hidden waterfalls, dramatic canyons, birch forests and glacier views. Þórsmörk Nature Reserve has been featured in multiple films and T. V series. Both Game of Thrones and even Thor: Dark World. Iceland has an extensive film industry history, from the Star Wars Saga films like Rogue One and The Force Awakens being filmed up around various areas such as Lake Myvatn, and certain scenes were also shot in Eyjafjallajokull Glacier before it erupted in 2010.Introduction of Midgard's Family History
Midgard Basecamp concept brings in a well-rounded community approach, not only for tourists staying and visiting South Iceland, but also for locals who live in Hvolsvöllur (pronounced Huh-vwalls-Svet-LeR). The south Iceland town of Hvolsvöllur is roughly a 2 hour drive from Reykjavík.
Midgard Basecamp was born in 2010. Hildur mentioned that Icelandic tourism boomed shortly after the 2010 eruption of the Eyjafjallajökull ( pronounced hay yah feeah tlah eeaah kuh tl). In 2015 Hildur's friend, Stefan came in as an investor and consultant. He added his superb advice because he has a hotel and hospitality background.
Your top experiences from the beginning of Midgard? The community approach has brought many positive factors to Hvolsvöllur. The staff and main founders truly bring in all the things they love to experience about Iceland in their local area. For example, their facility is the largest music stage for showcasing local Icelandic artists (thanks to Hildur’s husband Addi who is a sound engineer). A giant “melting pot” where travelers and locals can mingle during their events.
Your top greatest challenges as a private outfitter in the world of tourism? Once the basecamp concept started to solidify, the start up of the restaurant was challenging at first ( and not just because of Covid).
What have you planned for 2025-2026 that makes Midgard unique from other Icelandic tour companies? Locally sourced (staff and restaurant menus), stronger focus on Aurora Borealis travel adventures. Midgard Basecamp location is free from light pollution in the area and even in the winter a great time for hiking. While summer is more popular, a bigger focus on hiking over all to minimize the impact of carbon footprint and save diesel usage. The hope is to have more greener vehicles also in the future.
How do you see yourselves as stewards in adventure and sustainable travel? Hildur mentioned that their service does speak for itself. You can see all the reviews on TripAdvisor regarding how travelers really love the service and personalized, authentic experience from staying/traveling with Midgard. They educate the travelers on regenerative tourism. Their business mantra for 2025 is “Stay humble, but bolder”.
2023 awards: This was the first time that a tour company won The Icelandic Soil Conservation Award from your community in Hvolsvöllur Municipality. Midgard also made the top three for Incentive Awards for Responsible Tourism. Hildur mentioned it is good to connect with like-minded companies who share the same regenerative tourism standards.
Midgard's favorite places to travel? Stefan and Hildur love Fjallabak Nature Reserve. It is a hidden Icelandic “pearl” that shifts the hike a bit away from the popular trendy hike spots. Interested in Midgard Basecamp for your next Icelandic adventure? Contact them on their website Midgard Base Camp - Accommodation in Hvolsvollur, South Iceland
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