Sheldon Chalet

This architecturally intriguing property sits atop the Sheldon Nunatak, a feat of engineering genius as well as a luxurious mountain retreat. Sitting in the six sides of a hexagon are five rooms and two shared bathrooms, while a dining area, cozy lounge, bar and kitchen occupy the ground floor. There’s a sense of isolation and drama; with no mobile phone signal or wifi and the only access to the lodge by helicopter, the real world soon becomes a distant memory.

The bedrooms are simple but cozy, the pared back elegance drawing the eye to the picture windows that frame the spellbinding views of the mountains. Faux fur throws add warmth to the large beds, creating a snug sanctuary from which to soak in the changing colors of the mountains as the day begins. The five bedrooms share two bathrooms, each with showers that benefit from a state-of-the-art water system and specially curated toiletries.

With a maximum of ten guests at any time, Sheldon Chalet soon feels like home, whether curled up in front of the fire, gazing out of the large windows at the frozen wilds of the Denali National Park or sipping a cool glass of Alaskan craft beer. The celebrated in-house chef whips up exquisite dishes using local ingredients and from breakfast through afternoon tea to dinner, meals are a gastronomic delight, their flavors rivalled only by the views.

From the moment you step off the helicopter at Sheldon Chalet to be welcomed with champagne and seafood, your world becomes the frozen expanse of the glacier and the mountain peaks beyond. Head out onto the Ruth Glacier with a mountaineering guide and trek across the ice, be hypnotised by the dancing lights of the Aurora Borealis, or explore the nunatak. After a day of activity, unwind in the sauna before sitting down to a drink around the firepit, followed by yet more gourmet delicacies as you join fellow guests for dinner.

There can be few more unique, intriguing accommodations than this architectural gem atop a glacial nunatak. Combine this with a luxuriously welcoming interior, world-class cuisine and otherworldly landscapes, and Sheldon Chalet becomes something very special indeed.