Ultimate Travel Guide to Resorts in Iceland
Beautiful, rugged, and hauntingly pristine, Iceland is an utterly unique destination that holds countless wonders. Among its numerous attractions, it offers some of the most stunning resorts perfect for any traveler, whether you’re after a luxury experience, natural exploration, or a relaxing wellness retreat. This guide provides an in-depth look at some of the best resorts in Iceland, their unique features, and why you should consider them for your next vacation.
1. The Retreat at Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most iconic sites, known for its steaming geothermal waters that are as healing as they are beautiful. Nestled on the volcanic landscape surrounding the lagoon, you’ll find the luxurious Retreat at Blue Lagoon.
The resort is the epitome of Nordic luxury, offering a minimalistic yet sophisticated design that lets the natural beauty of the surroundings shine. Besides the private access to the Blue Lagoon, the resort offers a world-class spa, gourmet dining, and comfortable suites with floor-to-ceiling windows for an immersive experience.
2. Deplar Farm
Tucked away in the remote Fljot Valley in Northern Iceland, Deplar Farm is an adventure-focused, luxury resort that truly gives you an escape from the ordinary. Housed in a former sheep farm, it offers a blend of rustic charm and modern comforts.
Guests can enjoy a wide array of activities, from horseback riding, hiking, and kayaking in the summer, to heli-skiing, snowmobiling, and northern lights viewing in the winter. After a day filled with outdoor adventures, you can unwind in the geothermal pool, enjoy a massage at the spa, or savor local, farm-to-table cuisine.
3. ION Adventure Hotel
Located just an hour’s drive from Reykjavik, the ION Adventure Hotel serves as the perfect base for exploring the Golden Circle, one of Iceland’s most popular tourist routes. This eco-friendly resort is a masterpiece of contemporary design, blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.
Each room offers spectacular views of the rugged terrain, while the Silfra Restaurant & Bar serves up delicious local cuisine. Be sure to spend some time in the outdoor hot tub or take a relaxing dip in the naturally heated pool. Don’t miss the chance to gaze at the Northern Lights from the comfort of the Northern Lights Bar during winter.
4. Hotel Rangá
Overlooking the Rangá River in South Iceland, Hotel Rangá is a charming resort offering stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and often, the elusive Northern Lights. Its remote location makes it ideal for stargazing, and the resort even has an on-site observatory with high-quality telescopes.
Guest rooms are uniquely themed after the seven continents, each filled with authentic artwork and furnishings. Along with its acclaimed restaurant, the resort offers various outdoor activities, including horse riding, super jeep tours, and hiking trips. The warm and inviting outdoor hot tubs are a definite highlight.
5. Hotel Husafell
For those looking to experience the raw beauty of West Iceland, Hotel Husafell is a must-visit. Situated amidst glaciers, lava caves, and geothermal springs, the resort is an eco-conscious traveler’s dream, powered entirely by renewable energy.
The minimalist design of the rooms perfectly complements the dramatic landscapes surrounding the hotel. Guests can choose from various activities, like golfing, hiking, glacier tours, and exploring the nearby lava caves. The hotel’s thermal baths are an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
6. Hotel Borg
Looking for a city-based stay in Iceland? Hotel Borg, situated in the heart of Reykjavik, is the place for you. This historic hotel combines old-world elegance with modern comforts, making it an ideal base for exploring Iceland’s vibrant capital city.
The hotel features art deco styling and offers a range of rooms and suites, all of which exude an air of classic elegance. The on-site Borg Spa provides a variety of treatments, perfect for rejuvenating after a day of city exploration. Furthermore, the hotel’s restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience with a focus on modern, Nordic cuisine.
7. Hotel Grimsborgir
Hotel Grimsborgir is a luxury hotel situated in the Golden Circle region. With its convenient location, it offers easy access to some of Iceland’s most popular attractions, including the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park.
The resort provides a variety of accommodation options from rooms to apartments and luxurious suites, many of which come with private hot tubs. The on-site restaurant is renowned for its traditional Icelandic dishes. Here, you can enjoy a memorable meal while overlooking the stunning landscapes.
8. Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
Located between the Skaftafell National Park and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon provides a unique stay amidst some of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes. The hotel’s modern, minimalist design reflects the stark beauty of its surroundings.
Each room offers panoramic views of the mountains or the sea, and the on-site restaurant serves a variety of local and international dishes. Besides exploring the nearby national park and lagoon, guests can also embark on tours to witness the magical Northern Lights.
9. Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre
Part of the Hilton group, Canopy in Reykjavik offers a chic, boutique hotel experience. It is ideally located for exploring the bustling city, being within walking distance of some of the city’s top attractions, shops, and eateries.
The rooms showcase a design inspired by Iceland’s unique landscapes, blending modern comforts with traditional touches. On-site, you’ll find a fitness center and a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine. Additionally, the hotel offers complimentary bikes, perfect for a city tour on wheels.
10. Silica Hotel
A sister hotel to the Retreat at Blue Lagoon, the Silica Hotel offers another chance to stay in one of Iceland’s most iconic locations. With fewer rooms than the Retreat, it offers a more intimate but equally luxurious experience.
Guests have private access to the Silica Lagoon, a separate part of the Blue Lagoon, and can enjoy the relaxing, geothermally heated waters. Each room offers scenic views of the surrounding lava fields, providing a unique connection to Iceland’s natural wonders.
From city stays to rural retreats, from the wonder of geothermal lagoons to the magic of the Northern Lights, Iceland has a resort for every traveler. Each of these locations provides a different aspect of Iceland’s beauty, giving you numerous options to tailor your perfect Icelandic experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply looking for relaxation, you’re sure to find the ideal resort for your unforgettable Iceland adventure.