Most travellers know that Iceland’s landscapes are unusual and wonderfully wild. The country’s culture is not dissimilar, with fermented shark as their national dish, strong beliefs in elves, trolls and fairies, and even a Phallological Museum in its capital (maybe don’t google that one...). This wave of wacky washes over its hotels too, and some of the most unusual hotels in Iceland just so happen to be our favourites. From turf-roofed cabins, much like the mountainous mounds trolls (supposedly) live in, to wood-clad cabins nestled slap-bang in the middle of nowhere, with only waterfalls and wilderness as their backdrop. So, grab your sense of adventure and have a glance at some of the most unusual hotels in Iceland…
Hotel Ranga
You’re hit by the crisp scent of pure Icelandic air as you venture out onto your little wooden terrace at Hotel Ranga. Nestled on the banks of the picturesque Rangá River, in the heart of southern Iceland, this luxurious retreat is nothing short of magical. The spectacular hotel is surrounded by stunning vistas of glaciers, mountains and volcanoes, but inside, you’ll be greeted by a deliciously cosy atmosphere and the very best Icelandic hospitality. Each room is inspired by one of Earth’s continents and contrast beautifully with the world-class culinary experience on offer, which celebrates the bounty of Iceland's natural wonders. What else makes Hotel Ranga so unusual, we hear you ask? Well, thanks to being so far from any light pollution, when night falls the hotel becomes the ultimate place to witness the phenomenon that has captivated travellers for centuries. Head to the hotel's stargazing observatory, where (if you’re in season and somewhat lucky) the Northern Lights will appear, dancing in ribbons of green, purple and pink across the dark midnight sky.
Seljalandsfoss Horizons Lodge
Waking up slap-bang in the middle of Icelandic tundra isn’t something that many can say they’ve experienced. Seljalandsfoss Horizons Lodge is located just 0.6 miles from Seljalandfoss waterfall and is the ultimate hotel from which to explore South Iceland. As the sun turns the lowlands a glorious shade of gold, long shadows creep from the little isolated cabins, filling the basin with otherworldly shapes and silhouettes. Floor to ceiling glass covers the cabins’ fronts, with views out over the swaying grass and expansive river basin beyond. It is the sense of isolation that makes Seljalandsfoss Horizons Lodge one of the most unusual hotels in Iceland. Despite being completely in the middle of nowhere, the cabins’ interiors are cosy, with warm timber cladding and luxurious soft furnishings, that contrast beautifully with its exterior surroundings. Your first stop while bedding down at these fairytale-esque cabins must be Seljalandsfoss waterfall, plummeting a whopping 200ft from the rich green cliff above. You can even take a walk behind the falls, before driving to Eyjafjallajokull glacier to catch a glimpse of the tiny volcano that blanketed the world in chaos in 2010.
Torfhús Retreat
With elves and fairies filling Icelandic folklore, what better way to rest weary bodies than in a traditional turf-roofed house that resembles the mounds supposedly inhabited by trolls in the hinterlands? Set in the heart of Iceland’s Golden Circle, Torfhús Retreat is a beautiful blend of traditional Icelandic style and exciting eco-luxury. Its local stone buildings are topped with verdant grass roofs and make for a truly authentic Icelandic stay. While staying in true Icelandic folklore style at Torfhús Retreat, you'll have the opportunity to experience the natural wonders of the Westfjords region. Head out on a hike through the rugged terrain, spot rare birds, fish for fresh seafood or embark on a thrilling whale-watching adventure with an expert guide. One of the most exceptional aspects of this charming hotel is its restaurant. The menu is a delightful showcase of the best of Iceland's seasonal and local ingredients, prepared by skilled chefs who have a passion for creating innovative and delicious dishes. It is the ultimate place to feel a true connection to the land, the people, and the culture of this volcanic country, making it one of the most unusual hotels in Iceland.
ION Adventure Hotel
Its appearance alone makes the ION Adventure Hotel one of the most unusual hotels in Iceland. Less than an hour’s drive from the country’s bustling capital lies a concrete structure, jutting out from majestic mountainous lava fields. This striking building boasts floor-to-ceiling windows which overlook the vast river basin below, as well as the steaming Nesjavallavirkjun geothermal power plant. The naturally heated outdoor pool is nestled below the hotel’s concrete stilts and is the perfect place for lovers of the outdoors to float around in, surrounded by volcanic tundra. Head out with an expert guide on a horse riding adventure through the scenery that surrounds the hotel. Trot over ancient lava fields, across mounds of bright green moss and past the glassy waters of Lake Þingvallavatn that reflect the surrounding beauty. If exploring on four wheels is more up your street, then explore the Golden Circle from the comfort of a jeep, before venturing back to the hotel and watching the skies from the comfort of an armchair (drink in hand). During Northern Light season (September to April) and when conditions are right, the Northern Lights dance across the sky in great swathes of turquoise, green and purple, making for the ultimate evening entertainment.
Written by Immy Kelly