Iceland, with its ethereal landscapes of glaciers, volcanoes, and rugged fjords, offers more than just a travel destination; it offers an experience. Amidst this backdrop, finding a unique place to stay can transform your trip from memorable to unforgettable. From sleeping under the Northern Lights in a bubble hotel to staying in a lighthouse on the edge of the world, here are 9 unconventional hotels in Iceland that promise an adventure of their own.
1. The Bubble Hotel
Imagine lying back under the vast Icelandic sky, watching the Northern Lights or the midnight sun from the comfort of your bed. This hotel, located in a secret forest an hour from Reykjavik, offers just that. These transparent bubbles are secluded in nature, providing an unparalleled viewing experience of the sky and stars, all from the warmth and comfort of your bed. The bubbles are heated and equipped with necessities, offering a cozy stay amidst the wilderness. The concept combines luxury with adventure, allowing guests to feel as if they are part of the surrounding nature without sacrificing comfort. Each bubble is situated far enough apart to provide privacy, ensuring a serene and intimate experience. It’s a perfect retreat for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Activities around the Bubble Hotel range from hiking in the summer to snowshoeing in the winter, with the ever-changing landscape offering something new with each season.
2. Lighthouse Living
For a truly unique stay, consider spending a few nights in one of Iceland’s operational lighthouses. The Dyrhólaey Lighthouse, perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, offers guests a chance to experience life at the edge of the world. The lighthouse has been converted into a cozy accommodation, with panoramic windows offering views of the tumultuous sea, the black sand beaches, and the distant mountains. The lighthouse stay is ideal for those seeking solitude and inspiration. Artists, writers, and anyone looking to disconnect from the digital world will find this setting to be a haven. The accommodation includes all the modern comforts within its historical walls, providing a unique blend of the old and the new. Guests can explore the surrounding nature reserves, home to a variety of seabirds, including puffins during the breeding season. The location also serves as an excellent base for exploring the South Coast’s numerous attractions, such as the Reynisfjara black sand beach and the Skógafoss waterfall.
3. Urban Pod Hotel
Bringing innovation to the heart of the capital, the Urban Pod Hotel offers a futuristic accommodation experience. Located conveniently in Reykjavik, this hotel combines the concept of Japanese pod hotels with Icelandic design, providing a sleek, efficient, and surprisingly comfortable stay. Each pod is equipped with a bed, storage space, and shared facilities that are modern and clean, making it an excellent choice for solo travelers or those on a budget. The Urban Pod Hotel stands out for its central location, offering easy access to the accommodation in Reykjavik city center. It’s an ideal base for exploring the city’s vibrant culture, cuisine, and nightlife. Despite its urban setting, the hotel maintains a sense of privacy and tranquility within each pod, providing a unique blend of social and private space. This accommodation is perfect for those who prioritize location, value, and a touch of novelty in their stay.
4. Converted Schoolhouse Hostel
Nestled in the countryside, a converted schoolhouse offers a charming and quirky stay for travelers looking for a story to tell. This hostel retains many of its original features, including classroom doors and blackboards, while providing all the comforts of modern accommodation. The communal areas are cozy and inviting, with a shared kitchen where guests can prepare meals and exchange travel tips. The sense of community and nostalgia that pervades the schoolhouse creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a hit among backpackers and families alike. Adding to the uniqueness of this stay is the opportunity to sleep in a former classroom, where the decor includes educational posters and maps, blending the old with the new. It’s a whimsical twist on traditional accommodation, offering both comfort and character in equal measure. This stay is not just a place to rest but a part of your Icelandic adventure, providing a unique backdrop to your journey.
5. Eco-Friendly Earth Houses
For an eco-conscious stay that blends seamlessly with the landscape, consider booking an Earth House. These sustainable accommodations are built into the ground, with grass-covered roofs and walls made from local materials, minimizing their environmental impact while maximizing energy efficiency. Inside, the houses are modern and beautifully designed, offering a cozy retreat that feels connected to nature outside. The Earth Houses are scattered across Iceland, often in stunning locations that offer privacy and unparalleled views of the surroundings. Staying in an Earth House is an experience in itself, offering a chance to live close to nature without leaving a footprint. It’s an ideal choice for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes while maintaining a commitment to sustainability.
6. ION Adventure Hotel
The ION Adventure Hotel, nestled in the unique Icelandic landscape near Thingvellir National Park, offers a luxurious and sustainable stay. This hotel is an ideal spot for those looking to experience Iceland’s natural wonders while enjoying modern comforts. The architecture of the ION Adventure Hotel is designed to blend in with the surrounding environment, featuring large windows that provide stunning views of the volcanic mountains and lava fields. The hotel is known for its commitment to sustainability, utilizing geothermal energy and eco-friendly materials.
Guests can indulge in the hotel’s array of amenities, including an outdoor heated pool, a renowned spa offering a variety of treatments, and a restaurant that serves dishes made from local, organic ingredients. The hotel’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the Golden Circle, hiking in the national park, or hunting for the Northern Lights in the clear Icelandic sky. The ION Adventure Hotel is not just a place to stay; it’s a destination that offers a deep connection with Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes and a commitment to environmental stewardship.
7. The Yurt Village
Yurts offer a nomadic twist to the Icelandic landscape, providing a cozy and unique accommodation option for those looking to connect with nature. The Yurt Village, located in a secluded valley, offers a collection of traditional Mongolian yurts, each furnished with comfortable beds, wood-burning stoves, and rustic decor that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The village is designed as a retreat, offering a place for meditation, yoga, and relaxation amidst the stunning natural beauty of Iceland. The communal yurt serves as a gathering place for meals and workshops, fostering a sense of community among guests. The surrounding area is rich in hiking trails, hot springs, and opportunities for wildlife watching, making it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. Staying in a yurt is an experience that combines simplicity with comfort, encouraging guests to slow down and appreciate the moment.
8. The Treehouse Cluster
Treehouses bring a touch of whimsy and adventure to accommodation, and in Iceland, a cluster of treehouses takes this concept to new heights. Nestled in a dense forest, these treehouses offer an enchanting escape, with bridges connecting the different units and providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Each treehouse is uniquely designed, featuring large windows that bring the outdoors in, cozy interiors, and all the modern amenities needed for a comfortable stay. It’s a childhood dream come to life, offering a secluded and intimate retreat that feels a world away from the usual tourist paths. The treehouse cluster is an ideal base for exploring the nearby natural attractions, including waterfalls, rivers, and hiking trails. It’s a place where guests can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the forest, waking up to the sound of birds and the rustle of leaves.
9. The Underwater Lodge
While still a conceptual accommodation, the idea of an underwater lodge in Iceland captures the imagination. Envisioned as a way to fully immerse guests in the marine environment, the lodge would offer underwater rooms with panoramic views of the ocean floor, allowing guests to observe the rich marine life and the dance of the Northern Lights above through a clear, domed ceiling. The concept combines luxury with adventure, offering a unique perspective on Iceland’s natural beauty. Guests would have access to submarine tours, diving expeditions, and marine biology workshops, making it an educational as well as an unforgettable stay. While the underwater lodge is a glimpse into the future of unique accommodations, it represents the spirit of innovation and adventure that Iceland offers.
Each of these unique stays in Iceland offers more than just a place to rest; they offer an experience that is deeply intertwined with the landscape and culture of this extraordinary country. From sleeping under the stars in a bubble to embracing the solitude of a lighthouse, these accommodations are an integral part of the adventure, making your trip to Iceland truly unforgettable.
