We’re excited to be creating a special place dedicated to wellness, self-development, and sustainability in a breathtaking location
– Áslaug Magnúsdóttir

Six Senses will open a new resort in the land of fire and ice for its next development: Six Senses Össurá Valley.

Designed to be a hub for people passionate about nature, wellness, and adventure, the resort will be located on 4,000 acres (1,619 hectares) of privately-owned land in Svínhólar near Lóni.

The first phase of the project will see the opening of a 70-guestroom resort and private cottages dotted across the landscape, serving as a beacon of sustainable living.

Built using renewable and locally-sourced materials and adhering to high standards of energy and water efficiency utilising Iceland's geothermal energy, guest accommodation and residences will tread lightly on the earth. The project’s architect, John Brevard, has added another layer to the design brief to create a space that considers the implications of human bioenergy, electromagnetism, astrology, sacred geometry, and the principles of Feng Shui. The goal is to align guests and residents with the natural order and hyperdimensional realities, so they recharge and reconnect.

Reinforcing the relationship between the inside and outside, the resort’s welcome lounge will feel integrated into the surrounding environment and include a library, a cinema room, pools, an Earth Lab showcasing the project’s sustainability efforts, and a water bar.

A Six Senses Spa will offer comprehensive wellness programming, in addition to a functional fitness centre and yoga studio.

There will be a farmhouse with an organic garden and a cooking school where chefs will share their passion for hearty and healthy food and showcase farm-to-table seasonal recipes.

“This development epitomizes our commitment to finding locations where guests can be right in the heart of nature, and where they will come face-to-face with the raw beauty, power and soul of this magical destination,” said Neil Jacobs, CEO of Six Senses. “It will also appeal to experience-seekers looking for something uniquely joyful and playful. Legend holds that mystical elves still occupy the rocks and cliffs of this land. Each time we talk about the project we smile.”

Six Senses Össurá Valley is owned and being developed by the Álfaland Hotel ehf under the care and creative inspiration of its partners: architect John Brevard, fashion entrepreneur Áslaug Magnúsdóttir, and cultural entrepreneur Jakob Frímann Magnússon.

Magnúsdóttir said: “Joining forces with Six Senses represents a great alignment of visions: a passion for protecting Iceland’s natural habitat, while affording guests the opportunity to connect with pristine nature. We’re excited to be creating a special place dedicated to wellness, self-development, and sustainability in a breathtaking location. It's a first-of-its-kind resort in Iceland.”

Six Senses Össurá Valley is slated to open in 2022.

About tourism in IcelandTourism arrivals to Iceland have more than doubled in the last four years to approaching 400,000 a year, as this northern nation positions itself as a flight transit hub between the US and Europe.

In addition, Icelandic companies are encouraged by the government to invest in their own country, rather than overseas, driving opportunities for development.

About Six Senses

Recently acquired by IHG, Six Senses has also just announced a new location in Costa Rica.

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FEATURE: People profile – Neil Jacobs