How do you set up a safe base in the Ashlands biome?

Setting up a safe base in the Ashlands biome in Valheim requires careful planning and preparation due to the biome''s extreme hazards, such as constant fire damage, aggressive enemies, and limited resources. The Ashlands is a late-game biome filled with fire-based enemies like Surtlings and Magma Drakes, as well as environmental dangers like lava flows and fire geysers. To survive and thrive here, you need to prioritize fire resistance, sturdy defenses, and efficient resource management.\n\nFirst, ensure you have the best gear and tools before venturing into the Ashlands. Equip yourself with fully upgraded padded armor or Fenris armor, as both provide excellent protection and mobility. Bring a Draugr Fang bow or another high-tier ranged weapon to deal with enemies from a distance. For melee combat, a black metal sword or Frostner is ideal. Additionally, stock up on fire resistance barley wine, which can be brewed using barley and cloudberries. This potion is essential for mitigating fire damage in the Ashlands.\n\nWhen selecting a base location, avoid areas with active lava flows or fire geysers, as these can destroy structures and harm you. Look for elevated terrain or flat areas away from enemy spawn points. Use the hoe to level the ground and create a stable foundation for your base. Building on stone is highly recommended, as it is fire-resistant and durable. Start by constructing a stone wall perimeter to protect your base from enemy attacks. Reinforce it with iron gates or reinforced doors for added security.\n\nInside your base, prioritize essential structures like a workbench, forge, and stonecutter to repair and upgrade your gear. Build a hearth or campfire for warmth and cooking, but ensure it is placed safely to avoid accidental fires. Use stone or black marble for flooring and walls, as these materials are fireproof and provide a strong defense. Include a portal for quick travel to other biomes, as the Ashlands lacks many resources like wood and food.\n\nTo manage resources efficiently, bring a cart or longship loaded with materials like stone, wood, and metal. Since the Ashlands has limited trees, you will need to import wood from other biomes. Use cultivators to grow crops like barley and flax in a protected area within your base. These crops are essential for crafting fire resistance potions and high-tier gear. Additionally, set up a smelting area with blast furnaces to process black metal and other ores found in the biome.\n\nCombat in the Ashlands is challenging due to the high number of fire-based enemies. Surtlings can be dealt with using ranged weapons or by luring them into water, which extinguishes their flames. Magma Drakes are more dangerous and require careful positioning and teamwork to defeat. Always keep fire resistance potions active during combat to reduce incoming damage. Use the terrain to your advantage by creating choke points or elevated positions to control enemy movement.\n\nFinally, consider building a dock or harbor near your base if you plan to transport resources by sea. The Ashlands is often surrounded by water, making ships a viable option for moving heavy loads. Use a longship for its large storage capacity and durability. Keep your ship protected by building a stone wall around the dock and placing workbenches nearby to prevent enemy spawns.\n\nIn summary, setting up a safe base in the Ashlands requires fire-resistant gear, strategic location selection, and sturdy stone structures. Prioritize fire resistance potions, efficient resource management, and defensive measures to survive the biome''s harsh conditions. With careful planning and preparation, you can establish a secure foothold in the Ashlands and thrive in this dangerous environment.