Our Conscious Eye On
- Ion Adventure Hotel

Conscious Hotel

Location

Selfoss, Iceland

Architecture

Tryggvi Thorsteinsson, Minarc

The Originals

Sigurlaug Sverrisdóttir

With its remote location on the multicolored slopes of Mt. Hengill, an active volcano, Ion Adventure Hotel has respect for nature and the community at the core of its ethos. In a past life, the building was the workers’ inn for a geothermal power plant. When the structure was renovated with the help of Santa Monica-based design studio Minarc, natural features, innovative materials, and sustainable practices were built in. The water system is a particularly impressive feat, as the hotel goes through a lot of water in its sprawling spa. All greywater goes through an extensive filtration process. After several layers of cleaning, the water is filtered through lava to be reused in 50 years. As the hotel is so remote, a connection to the local community is essential. Local farmers and producers have naturally become an extension of Ion’s vibrant community.

“Our aim is to stay true to nature and close to the neighborhood. Therefore we also encourage business with the local community and to embrace our culture.”

Sigurlaug Sverrisdóttir, the Original behind Ion Adventure Hotel

Ion Adventure Hotel

Conscious Hotel Principles

Architecture

Prefabricated concrete blocks were used during construction to cause limited harm to the environment. Local workers, materials, products, and businesses were called upon.

Waste

As a lot of water is used in the spa, the hotel installed one of the most sustainable systems to clean and reuse water. After several layers of cleaning, all greywater is filtered through lava to be reused in 50 years.

Energy

As all energy is provided by the local geothermal energy provider, Ion is certified as a green energy hotel.

Water

All hot water comes from the ground via geothermal springs.

Products & Produce

All products for the restaurant and hotel are sourced from local businesses.

Culture

As the hotel is so remote, the hotel supports locals by purchasing products and services from surrounding farms and other businesses.

Recreation

For the adventure tours, the hotel works with selected operators that support green energy. The hotel encourages outdoor activities such as hiking, fly fishing, and more.

Accessibility

Electrical charging stations are located at the hotel.

Healthy Workplace

Employees have the opportunity to participate in sustainable activities and education. They are invited to experience local activities and volunteering efforts, including supporting the local rescue team and biking to plant trees.

Learn more about our Conscious Hotel Principles. Discover our Conscious Hotels.

The Originals Sigurlaug Sverrisdóttir