GLØD Explorer in Alta: Arctic adventures with a focus on sustainability
At JETS, we are always inspired by innovative projects that prioritise environmental responsibility while delivering outstanding user experiences. One such company that has embraced Jets® vacuum technology is GLØD Explorer, a unique glamping destination in Alta, Norway.
Through one of our dealers, Comfort Alta, we had the opportunity to visit GLØD Explorer. Comfort Alta supplied all the Jets® solutions, provided valuable guidance throughout the process, and handled the installation and setup.
GLØD Explorer
Quality craftsmanship, sustainable experiences, and a deep commitment to nature are the cornerstones of GLØD Explorer. Since its founding in 2005, GLØD Explorer has offered exceptional activities, expeditions, accommodations, and culinary experiences for individuals, groups, and corporate clients. Based in Alta, in Norway's northernmost county of Finnmark, their goal is to provide guests with the ultimate Arctic nature experiences.
Minimising environmental impact
GLØD Explorer is dedicated to reducing its environmental footprint. They limit the use of motorised transport in pristine areas, instead relying on dogs to carry or pull equipment during expeditions. All electricity used on-site is sourced from sustainable energy, including hydropower and wind energy. Additionally, they have implemented efficient recycling and waste sorting to minimise their environmental impact. And last but not least, they have chosen Jets® for their sanitation solutions!
Unique domes
GLØD Explorer takes accommodation to a new level with its luxurious domes. Each dome is built with a sturdy aluminium frame covered with durable canvas. Inside, an additional inner layer creates an insulating air pocket within the walls. This innovative design allows a large portion of the roof and walls to remain transparent, offering breathtaking views and a natural symphony of sounds—making it feel like sleeping under the open sky.
The surrounding area includes not only the domes but also a spacious lavvu (traditional Sami tent), an outdoor kitchen, and a bar, all connected by elevated walkways. These structures are built above ground, eliminating the need for excavation and preserving the natural landscape. By designing a holistic experience, GLØD Explorer creates an atmosphere that is far more than just a place to stay.
Comfortable toilets – Even without a water supply
At GLØD Explorer, the domes offer more than just spectacular views - they also come with private toilets. This means guests don’t have to venture out on long walks in the middle of the night, which is especially appreciated during the cold and snowy Arctic winters.
With a strong focus on minimising environmental impact, GLØD Explorer needed a toilet solution that met their sustainability goals. Jets® vacuum toilets use minimal water and transport waste through small-diameter vacuum pipes. Because vacuum technology is not dependent on gravity, waste can be transported both horizontally and vertically, allowing for flexible pipe placement.
GLØD Explorer and Comfort Alta came up with the clever idea of laying these pipes beneath the elevated walkways connecting the domes to the communal areas. This smart solution ensures that everything can be easily removed without leaving a significant trace on the environment.
Since the domes do not have a direct water supply, each one is equipped with a manually refillable water tank. However, with Jets® vacuum toilets using only 0.6 liters per flush, water consumption is kept to a minimum. The low water usage also results in minimal waste, which is collected in a storage tank located in a dedicated service building. This building also provides a water supply for the toilets.
With such smart and practical solutions, GLØD Explorer demonstrates how comfort and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand!
Would you like to learn more about GLØD Explorer and perhaps plan a visit? You can check out their website here: GLØD Explorer