Iceland, a majestic realm of extremes, is where the surreal tapestry of nature unfolds with glaciers and volcanoes in a stunning embrace. Here, roaring waterfalls and simmering hot springs paint a landscape ripe for exploration.
For the avid aurora chasers, Iceland offers unparalleled opportunities to witness the magical Northern Lights. Enhance your chance to behold this mesmerizing spectacle by staying at one of the dedicated Northern Lights hotels in the heart of the Land of Fire and Ice.
Discover our curated list of the top 10 hotels designed to maximize your aurora-watching experience in Iceland.
The Northern Lights
The Northern Lights in Iceland, or Aurora Borealis, manifest when solar particles collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere across the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. This celestial ballet paints the sky in hues ranging from deep violet to electric green and occasionally soft pink.
Visually, the aurora might initially appear as a gentle, cloud-like streak, yet under more vital solar activity, it transforms into a vibrant spectacle, energetically dancing across the heavens. This stunning natural light show ranks highly on many people's travel wish lists, offering a profound and often breathtaking experience.
Iceland's Northern Lights' prime viewing season spans September through April. The skies are sufficiently dark during these months to reveal the luminous wonder.
Come summer. However, the midnight sun's perpetual daylight overpowers the aurora's faint glow, making it invisible from mid-May until early August.
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10 Best Northern Lights Hotels in Iceland
1. Hotel Rangá
If you like watching the Northern Lights while soaking in an outdoor hot tub, Hotel Rangá should be your sanctuary of choice. Located strategically between Hella and Hvolsvöllur in the serene expanses of South Iceland, just a mere two-hour journey from Reykjavík, Hotel Rangá offers a pristine riverside vantage point far from the glare of city lights, enhancing your chances of witnessing the celestial dance of the aurora borealis.
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The expansive skies surrounding the hotel serve as a perfect canvas for the Northern Lights, offering guests a clear, unobstructed spectacle of the night sky. In addition, Hotel Rangá provides a thoughtful wake-up service to ensure guests don't miss a moment of the aurora's display, complete with cozy blankets for a warm viewing experience on chilly nights.
You don't need to be in a hot tub to enjoy the panoramic views; outdoor benches and private balconies are available for a comfortable viewing experience. Moreover, Hotel Rangá's exclusive observatory, equipped with top-tier telescopes, invites guests to chase the auroras and stargaze, offering a glimpse of distant planets like Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars.
Even on nights when the Northern Lights might shy away, the hotel's facilities ensure that the beauty of the night sky remains within your reach, making every evening at Hotel Rangá a potentially magical one.
2. Magma Hotel
Travel further along South Iceland's Ring Road to encounter Magma Hotel, tucked away near the picturesque village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. This refined establishment offers an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere complemented by its attentive staff.
The Northern Lights Hotel in Magma features a limited number of 12 rooms, ensuring a tranquil and exclusive guest experience. The scenery surrounding the Magma Hotel is nothing short of breathtaking.
It sits adjacent to a tranquil lake and vast lava fields extending towards the distant Vatnajökull glacier. This secluded location is ideal for uninterrupted views of the expansive night sky and is a prime spot for Northern Lights sightings.
Each guestroom includes a well-appointed patio, perfect for cozying under a blanket and enjoying the celestial display above. The hotel also features a welcoming restaurant where guests can indulge in fine Icelandic culinary delights.
During the Northern Lights season, from October through April, visitors are perfectly positioned to partake in various winter adventures. They can engage in ice caving, embark on glacier treks at Vatnajökull, or observe the spectacular sight of icebergs calving at the nearby Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
3. Fosshótel Glacier Lagoon
Fosshótel Mývatn is an excellent place to visit in North Iceland, especially during winter. It's located near Lake Mývatn, far from the city lights, making it a perfect spot to see the Northern Lights.
The hotel has a modern restaurant with big windows that let you see the beautiful lake while you eat. There's also a sauna, and many rooms have lake views.
You can watch the Northern Lights from the hotel's outdoor terrace if the sky is clear. When you stay at Fosshótel Mývatn, you can enjoy many fun winter activities.
From December to March, you can go snowmobiling across the frozen lake, a fun way to see the mountains. You can also visit nearby waterfalls like Dettifoss and Goðafoss.
These waterfalls look amazing in winter, covered in snow and ice. After a day of exploring, relax in the Mývatn Nature Baths, where you can swim in warm, geothermal waters.
4. Hofsstaðir Country Hotel
Nestled on a hill in the serene Skagafjörður area of North Iceland, the Hofsstaðir Country Hotel offers a picturesque escape with a stunning fjord view. This prime location is ideal for watching the Northern Lights swirl above, a mesmerizing spectacle best viewed against the dark, vast sky of this remote setting.
The hotel, designed with tranquility in mind, features private verandas both at the front and the back, ensuring guests can enjoy the splendid views and the aurora borealis with utmost privacy.
Dining at the Hofsstaðir is an experience in itself. The guesthouse restaurant boasts panoramic windows that frame the breathtaking landscape, enhancing your dining experience, whether you start the day with a continental breakfast or savor a traditional Icelandic dinner in the evening.
For those looking to explore the region's rich heritage, a visit to the nearby Herring Era Museum in Siglufjörður offers insights into Iceland's maritime past. At the same time, the Glaumbær Folk Museum presents a deeper dive into Icelandic culture.
Additionally, the nearby twin hot springs of Grettislaug and Jarlslaug offer a unique and relaxing soak in geothermal waters, surrounded by Iceland's natural beauty.
5. Hotel Húsafell
Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of West Iceland with a stay at the serene and eco-friendly Hotel Húsafell, situated a mere two hours from Reykjavík. Nestled among diverse natural attractions such as the majestic Langjökull glacier, cascading waterfalls, intriguing ice and lava caves, and expansive lava fields, Hotel Húsafell is your gateway to an enchanting Icelandic adventure.
This hotel's remote location ensures minimal light pollution, offering unparalleled opportunities to observe the mesmerizing dance of the aurora borealis across the winter skies. For added convenience, the hotel provides a Northern Lights wake-up service to ensure guests don't miss this spectacular natural display.
Hotel Húsafell isn't just a place to stay; it's a hub of activity. Fill your days with hikes across scenic trails, mountain biking, golfing, snowmobiling, or exploring caves.
For a unique experience, venture into the heart of Langjökull Glacier through the "Into The Glacier" tour, where you can walk through brilliantly carved ice tunnels. After a day of adventure, unwind in the Húsafell Canyon Baths or the hotel's geothermal pool.
Culminate your day with a gourmet meal at the hotel's elegant restaurant. With so much to see and do, you might want to extend your visit to embrace all that Húsafell has to offer fully.
6. ION Adventure Hotel
Located just outside Reykjavik and near the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, the ION Adventure Hotel is ideal for those eager to experience the Northern Lights. This eco-friendly hotel boasts a modern design and sits in an area with minimal light pollution.
Guests can enjoy numerous amenities, including an on-site spa, sauna, and a geothermal outdoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The hotel offers an Aurora wake-up call service to ensure guests don't miss any Northern Lights displays.
Please note that breakfast is not included and may be subject to additional charges, and there may be a mild sulfur odor due to geothermal activity in the area.
For convenience, the ION Adventure Hotel is a 75-minute drive from Keflavik International Airport, with free parking available for guests. While renting a car is recommended for exploring the nearby attractions, the hotel also offers an airport shuttle service at an additional cost, which can be pre-arranged directly with the hotel.
7. Aurora Igloo in Hella
Aurora Igloo is the pinnacle choice for those seeking serenity and natural beauty. Nestled in a stunning countryside setting in West Iceland, this retreat offers a unique blend of tranquility and convenience with its proximity to Hella town.
Each igloo has a double bed, seating, and heating to ensure comfort throughout the year. It is separated by wooden barriers to maintain privacy. Guests can immerse themselves in the picturesque surroundings during the day and at night and enjoy unobstructed sky views, home to stars, the moon, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
Reaching Aurora Igloo from Keflavik International Airport involves 1 hour and 50 minutes of driving. The best way to travel is by car, either your own or a rented car, which offers freedom to explore.
Alternatively, you can opt for a pre-arranged taxi or transfer for convenience.
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8. Seljalandsfoss Horizons
Seljalandsfoss Horizons offers a premier cabin experience on Iceland's South Coast, celebrated for its ideal visibility of the Northern Lights. The cabins feature a cozy Scandinavian design that perfectly complements the rugged landscape.
Each cabin is equipped for self-catering, with amenities like a kitchenette, private bathroom, and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable stay. The nearest low-cost supermarket, Krónan in Hvolsvöllur, is conveniently located just 20km away.
To fully appreciate the area, including the iconic Skogafoss waterfall 28km away, renting a car is recommended for travel flexibility. Seljalandsfoss Horizons is about a 2 hour 17 minute drive from Keflavik International Airport.
9. Landhotel
Landhotel in South Iceland's Hella village is a premium choice for viewing the Northern Lights. This four-star establishment is celebrated for its exceptional location amidst mountainous and rural landscapes, boasting a 4.5/5 star rating from over 135 reviewers.
Strategically situated near the Golden Circle and the South Coast waterfalls, it offers easy access to top attractions like the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. Landhotel enhances your experience with superb views from each room, accommodating up to three guests and featuring a sitting area and refrigerator.
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Guests can indulge in the hotel's sauna, enjoy massages, and participate in outdoor yoga retreats. Additionally, the hotel provides complimentary breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the on-site restaurant and pre-packaged meals upon request.
10. Hotel Laxa
Hotel Laxa, rated 4.5/5 stars from over 625 reviews, is a prominent three-star destination in Iceland, perfect for witnessing the Northern Lights. Nestled amidst towering mountain peaks on a treeless plain, it offers guests spectacular, unobstructed views of the aurora borealis.
The hotel's strategic location less than two miles from Lake Myvatn makes it easy to reach some of North Iceland's most celebrated attractions, like Asbyrgi Canyon, the powerful Dettifoss waterfall, and the charming coastal town of Husavik. Its location on the renowned Diamond Circle route enhances its appeal as a base to explore the vibrant Northeast of the country.
The area is bustling with activities, ranging from whale-watching and puffin tours to hiking, enjoying local hot springs, and wildlife observations. At night, the dark, expansive skies come alive with the northern lights dancing, making every stay here unforgettable.
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Hotel Laxa caters to a diverse array of guests, from leisure travelers to business groups, offering a variety of room types, including standard and lake view options. Amenities such as an on-site bar and restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and ample parking ensure a comfortable stay.
Additionally, the hotel has a conference room that can accommodate up to 25 people, making it ideal for corporate retreats. Its proximity to Reykjahlid village, just 8.5 miles away, allows easy access to additional conveniences like shopping for snacks and essentials.
Tips for Your Stay
To make the most of your Northern Lights adventure in Iceland, here are some enhanced tips for your stay:
- Optimal Timing: Schedule your visits between September and April to increase your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. This period marks the peak of auroral activity, providing the best conditions for the lights to appear.
- Prolong Your Journey: Given the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights, extending your stay can significantly improve your odds of experiencing this natural marvel. The longer you're there, the better your chances.
- Weather Vigilance: Monitoring the weather is crucial for catching the Northern Lights in their full splendor. Clear, crisp nights are ideal for viewing, so check the forecast regularly and be ready to venture out when conditions are favorable.
- Strategic Locations: Choose accommodations wisely—opt for hotels known for their Northern Lights viewings, ideally positioned away from city lights. Some hotels even offer alerts to wake you when the aurora is visible.
- Local Guidance: Ask locals or hotel staff for advice on the best nearby spots for aurora watching. They can often point you to lesser-known locations with optimal viewing conditions.
Final Verdict
Selecting the right hotel in Iceland can dramatically enhance your Northern Lights experience. Opt for accommodations strategically positioned away from city lights to increase your chances of witnessing the aurora borealis.
Many top hotels offer specific amenities like Northern Lights wake-up services and ideal viewing spots like outdoor hot tubs or private balconies. These establishments not only provide comfort but also ensure a memorable and visually spectacular stay under the Arctic skies.
Choosing the right hotel enhances your chances of experiencing the Northern Lights tours in Iceland. For optimal northern lights viewing, visit our website to explore our curated list of the best hotels with exceptional amenities like Aurora wake-up service calls.
FAQs
Where is the best place to see the Northern Lights and Ice Hotel?
In Iceland, the best Northern Lights views are from places like Þórsmörk and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon due to minimal light pollution; Sweden's Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi combines the ice hotel experience with excellent aurora viewing opportunities.
What is the best night to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
The Northern Lights are most vivid around the equinoxes in September and March, when conditions are optimal due to the balance of darkness and solar activity, enhancing the likelihood of a spectacular display.
Where is the best time to see Northern Lights in Iceland?
The prime season to witness the Northern Lights in Iceland is September to March, as the long nights provide the best conditions for viewing this natural phenomenon.
