Deplar Farm: Iceland's Most Extraordinary Remote Lodge

Perched on the edge of Iceland's remote Tröllaskagi Peninsula in North Iceland, Deplar Farm represents the pinnacle of luxury wilderness accommodation. This former sheep farm, transformed into an ultra-premium lodge by Eleven Experience, offers an unparalleled combination of dramatic Arctic landscapes, world-class amenities, and access to adventures that most travellers can only dream of experiencing.

Located 67 kilometres northeast of Akureyri in the Fljót valley, Deplar Farm occupies one of Iceland's most spectacular and isolated settings. The lodge sits at the base of towering peaks that rise directly from the Greenland Sea, creating a landscape so dramatic it borders on the surreal. The nearest settlement, Ólafsfjörður, lies 23 kilometres to the southeast, whilst the property's location ensures complete privacy and unobstructed views across some of Iceland's most pristine wilderness.

A Transformed Icelandic Farm

The story of Deplar Farm begins with its agricultural heritage. For decades, this remote location functioned as a traditional Icelandic sheep farm, with the harsh climate and isolation making it one of the more challenging agricultural operations in the country. The transformation began when Eleven Experience, known for creating exceptional wilderness lodges worldwide, recognised the property's extraordinary potential.

The renovation, completed in 2016, preserved the farm's essential character whilst elevating it to international luxury standards. The original farmhouse now serves as the lodge's social heart, housing the main dining area, library, and communal spaces. The design philosophy seamlessly blends contemporary Scandinavian aesthetics with traditional Icelandic materials—local stone, reclaimed timber, and wool feature prominently throughout the interiors.

Accommodation and Amenities

Deplar Farm accommodates a maximum of 20 guests across 11 elegantly appointed rooms and suites. Each accommodation features floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the dramatic mountain and ocean vistas, whilst heated bathroom floors and premium linens ensure comfort despite the Arctic location. The master suite, occupying the upper level of the main building, provides panoramic views across the Fljót valley and access to a private terrace.

The lodge's centrepiece is its geothermally heated outdoor pool and spa area, positioned to maximise views whilst providing year-round comfort. The spa facilities include a steam room constructed from local stone and treatment rooms where guests can book massages and wellness therapies. For those seeking more active pursuits, the lodge features a well-equipped fitness room and yoga studio.

The main living areas centre around a dramatic fireplace constructed from local basalt, whilst the dining room showcases floor-to-ceiling windows that provide uninterrupted views of the surrounding peaks. The library stocks an impressive collection of Icelandic literature, natural history books, and contemporary works, creating an ideal retreat during quieter moments.

Culinary Excellence in the Arctic

Executive Chef Óskar Logi Hjaltalín leads Deplar Farm's culinary programme, which has earned recognition as one of Iceland's finest dining experiences. The kitchen's philosophy centres on showcasing Iceland's exceptional natural ingredients, with an emphasis on local lamb, Arctic char, langoustine, and seasonal vegetables from carefully selected suppliers.

The tasting menus change seasonally and often incorporate ingredients foraged from the surrounding landscape—Arctic herbs, berries, and seaweed feature prominently. The wine programme includes carefully curated selections from established and emerging regions, chosen specifically to complement the Nordic cuisine. Guests dine together each evening, fostering a sense of community that defines the Deplar Farm experience.

Adventure at the Edge of the World

What truly distinguishes Deplar Farm is its access to adventures impossible to experience elsewhere in Iceland. The lodge operates its own helicopter, enabling guests to reach remote peaks for heli-skiing during winter months or to access hidden valleys and pristine fishing spots during summer.

The winter programme, running from January through April, focuses on Arctic adventures. Heli-skiing dominates, with guides accessing untouched powder snow on peaks that see perhaps a dozen skiers annually. Northern Lights viewing becomes a nightly possibility, enhanced by the complete absence of light pollution. Snowmobiling across frozen landscapes and ice climbing in hidden gorges round out the winter offering.

Summer transforms Deplar Farm into a base for high-end adventure tourism. Helicopter fishing trips target remote highland lakes and rivers where Arctic char and brown trout thrive in pristine conditions. Hiking expeditions explore the Tröllaskagi Peninsula's dramatic ridgelines and hidden valleys, whilst sea kayaking ventures along the dramatic coastline where mountains meet the Greenland Sea.

Reaching Iceland's Most Remote Lodge

Access to Deplar Farm requires careful planning, as its remote location demands specific transportation arrangements. Most guests fly into Reykjavík's Keflavík Airport (KEF), then connect to Akureyri Airport (AEY) via Icelandair's domestic service—a 45-minute flight that operates multiple times daily.

From Akureyri, Deplar Farm provides helicopter transfers directly to the lodge, a spectacular 20-minute journey that showcases the dramatic transition from Iceland's populated areas to the wild Tröllaskagi Peninsula. Alternatively, guests can arrange ground transportation, though this requires a capable 4WD vehicle and approximately 90 minutes of driving through challenging terrain.

Investment in Extraordinary Experience

Deplar Farm represents a significant investment, with rates reflecting its ultra-luxury positioning and remote location. All-inclusive packages, which include accommodation, all meals, selected beverages, and access to standard activities, typically range from 180,000-280,000 ISK (€1,200-1,900) per person per night, depending on season and room category. Helicopter activities, premium wine selections, and spa treatments command additional charges.

The winter season (January-April) commands premium pricing due to the heli-skiing programme and Northern Lights season. Summer rates (June-September) offer slightly better value whilst providing access to the hiking and fishing programmes. The lodge closes during shoulder seasons when weather conditions make access challenging and activity options limited.

Planning Your Visit

Successful visits to Deplar Farm require advance planning, as the lodge's limited capacity means popular periods book months ahead. Winter guests should pack appropriate Arctic clothing, though the lodge provides specialized gear for skiing and outdoor activities. Summer visitors need robust hiking equipment and layers for rapidly changing mountain weather.

The lodge's all-inclusive nature means minimal additional planning once arrival arrangements are confirmed. Staff coordinate all activities, transportation, and logistics, allowing guests to focus entirely on the experience. Weather contingency planning remains important, as helicopter operations depend on conditions, and backup activities ensure full programmes regardless of circumstances.

Deplar Farm succeeds as more than accommodation—it provides access to Iceland's most remote and spectacular landscapes whilst maintaining comfort standards that rival the world's finest hotels. For travellers seeking the ultimate Icelandic wilderness experience without compromising on luxury, few properties worldwide can match what this extraordinary remote lodge delivers.

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