International architects Snøhetta have designed a sanctuary for hikers seeking shelter in the remote and icy wilderness of southern Norway.

Located in the the remote Tungestølen region, in the shadow of Jostedal – the largest glacier in continental Europe – the studio has created a series of angular wooden cabins after winning a design competition set by the Norwegian Trekking Association.

The buildings – which have just opened – are organised in a spiral formation up a steep incline, and have been designed as Snøhetta’s visual interpretation of the spectacular mountainous surroundings.

Five small cabins and a private chalet provide room for up to 16 hikers to sleep in. Three communal buildings, featuring a cafe and restaurant, frame an intimate courtyard – a designated space for dialogue and contemplation between guests.

“We’ve been inspired by the interplay of the existing landscape and the buildings that characterise Tungestølen,” said Snøhetta in a statement. “It’s about living in the moment. Mountains can help build relations between the individual self and the outside world, and we wanted our cabins to do the same. It's a space for self-reflection."

“It’s both challenging and exciting to design buildings in a location with such wonderful surroundings.”

The studio are currently working on another high-altitude project in the Italian Alps, where they are creating a base and summit for a cable car to the top of Virgolo mountain.