Hotel Grimsborgir

From here, you’ll be less than an hour’s drive from Geysir Geothermal Area and Gullfoss waterfall, and just 25 minutes from the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Thingvellir National Park, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates diverge along a spectacular rift valley. As well as these iconic sights, there’s an abundance of opportunities for hiking, swimming and even playing golf nearby – just ask at reception and they’ll gladly provide you with local tips and insight, as well as details about their own excursions.

Kick-start your mornings with delicious buffet breakfasts, featuring all kinds of freshly baked breads and pastries, cereal, fruit and cooked dishes such as scrambled eggs and sausages. The restaurant also offers a fabulous à la carte menu later on, with a focus on fresh Icelandic produce such as Arctic Char, langoustine and lamb, as well as a handful of international favourites, vegetarian options and children’s dishes. If you’re heading out for the day, you can also ask for a picnic lunch to be prepared for you. There’s also a bar on-site, serving exquisite cocktails, a superb wine selection and Icelandic beer on tap. 

Expect cosy, comfortable and elegant rooms, each equipped with a balcony or terrace, free Wi-Fi access, tea and coffee facilities, and access to either communal or private hot tubs. There are apartments with well-equipped kitchens, too – ideal if you'd like the option to self-cater. If you’re staying any time between late August and early April, you can opt-in to a Northern Lights wakeup call, so whenever the aurora borealis is visible outside, you’ll be alerted straight away so you don’t miss out.