Best Hotels in Reykjavik for Northern Lights Viewing

Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, is a fantastic base for exploring the Land of Fire and Ice. But let’s be honest, many travelers are drawn here by one magnificent spectacle: the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. Witnessing these shimmering curtains of green, pink, and purple dance across the night sky is a truly unforgettable experience. While Reykjavik’s city lights can make viewing a bit challenging, choosing the right hotel can significantly increase your chances of spotting this celestial wonder. This article will guide you through the best hotels in and around Reykjavik that offer prime viewing locations, comfortable amenities, and sometimes, even organized Northern Lights tours.

Understanding the Northern Lights and Reykjavik’s Viewing Conditions

Before diving into hotel recommendations, it’s important to understand what makes the Northern Lights visible and how Reykjavik’s location affects your chances. The Aurora Borealis is a natural light display in the sky, predominantly seen in the high-latitude regions (around the Arctic and Antarctic). It’s caused by the collision of energetic charged particles with atoms in the high-altitude atmosphere (thermosphere). These charged particles originate from the sun and travel along the Earth’s magnetic field lines. The color of the aurora depends on the type of gas molecule that is hit and the altitude of the collision.

Unfortunately, light pollution from urban areas can obscure the Northern Lights. While Reykjavik is relatively small compared to other capital cities, its lights still pose a challenge. Therefore, hotels located on the outskirts of the city or those offering easy access to darker areas are ideal. Key factors influencing your viewing success include:

• Dark Skies: The further away from city lights, the better.
• Clear Skies: Cloud cover is the biggest enemy of Northern Lights viewing.
• Aurora Activity: Check the Aurora forecast (KP index) to see the likelihood of activity.
• Patience: The Northern Lights can be elusive. Be prepared to wait, and dress warmly!

Criteria for Selecting Hotels for Northern Lights Viewing

When choosing a hotel for Northern Lights viewing in Reykjavik, consider these key factors:

• Location: Hotels on the outskirts of Reykjavik or in nearby rural areas are preferred.
• Accessibility to Dark Areas: Easy access to spots with minimal light pollution is crucial.
• Northern Lights Tours: Some hotels offer organized tours, which can significantly increase your chances of seeing the lights.
• Amenities: Consider amenities like hot tubs, outdoor viewing areas, and wake-up calls for aurora sightings.
• Guest Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers who have stayed at the hotel and attempted to view the Northern Lights.

Top Hotels in and Around Reykjavik for Northern Lights Viewing

Here’s a curated list of hotels in and around Reykjavik that offer excellent opportunities for Northern Lights viewing, categorized for your convenience:

Hotels Within Reykjavik (with nearby viewing options)

These hotels are located within Reykjavik but offer easy access to darker areas or have features that enhance your viewing experience.

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland

While technically not in Reykjavik itself, The Retreat at Blue Lagoon is a luxurious option located a short drive from the city and offers unparalleled opportunities for Northern Lights viewing. Its secluded location amidst lava fields, combined with the calming ambiance of the Blue Lagoon, makes it a prime spot. Imagine soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters while watching the Aurora dance above you. The hotel also offers dedicated Northern Lights viewing tours and wake-up calls when the lights are visible.

Key Features:

• Secluded location amidst lava fields.
• Access to the Blue Lagoon.
• Northern Lights tours and wake-up calls.
• Luxurious amenities and exceptional service.

Hotel Ranga

While located about 2 hours outside of Reykjavik, Hotel Ranga is renowned for its dedicated Northern Lights observation. It boasts an on-site observatory, powerful telescopes, and expert staff who can guide you through the constellations. The hotel offers wake-up calls when the Aurora appears, and its remote location guarantees minimal light pollution. They also offer Super Jeep tours for prime viewing locations. The journey outside the city makes this hotel one of the best choices, even if it requires a bit more planning.

Key Features:

• On-site observatory with telescopes.
• Expert staff and guided constellation tours.
• Wake-up calls for aurora sightings.
• Remote location with minimal light pollution.
• Super Jeep tours to prime viewing spots.

ION Adventure Hotel, Nesjavellir

Located about an hour’s drive from Reykjavik in the Thingvellir National Park area, the ION Adventure Hotel offers stunning views and easy access to dark skies. Its modern design, sustainable practices, and proximity to natural wonders make it a unique and appealing choice. The hotel provides Northern Lights viewing tours and boasts a stylish Northern Lights Bar with floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing you to enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of indoors.

Key Features:

• Location near Thingvellir National Park.
• Northern Lights tours.
• Northern Lights Bar with panoramic views.
• Sustainable design and practices.

Hotel Borg

Hotel Borg is located in the heart of Reykjavik, and while it doesn’t offer direct Northern Lights viewing, its central location allows for easy access to guided tours that depart from the city. This luxury hotel provides a comfortable and stylish base for exploring Reykjavik and venturing out to chase the Aurora. Book a Northern Lights tour that includes transportation to a dark location outside the city, increasing your chances of witnessing the spectacle. Hotel Borg’s concierge can assist with arranging suitable tours.

Key Features:

• Central location in Reykjavik.
• Luxury amenities and stylish design.
• Concierge service to arrange Northern Lights tours.
• Easy access to city attractions and restaurants.

Alda Hotel Reykjavik

Alda Hotel Reykjavik is another centrally located option that provides convenient access to Northern Lights tours departing from the city. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations and modern amenities. Take a short walk to the harbor to board a Northern Lights cruise or join a guided bus tour that will take you to a dark location outside of Reykjavik. This hotel strikes a good balance between comfort and accessibility to tour options.

Key Features:

• Central location in Reykjavik.
• Comfortable accommodations and modern amenities.
• Easy access to Northern Lights tours and cruises.

Hotels on the Outskirts of Reykjavik (for enhanced viewing)

These hotels are situated just outside of Reykjavik, offering slightly darker skies and easier access to more remote areas.

Grótta Island Lighthouse (Accommodation Nearby)

While not a hotel directly, the Grótta Island Lighthouse, located on the Seltjarnarnes peninsula just west of Reykjavik, is a prime spot for Northern Lights viewing. Several guesthouses and smaller hotels are located within walking distance of the lighthouse, providing a tranquil escape from the city lights. Check for accommodations on Seltjarnarnes, and enjoy the short walk to the lighthouse on clear nights. Remember to check tide times, as the island is only accessible at low tide.

Key Features:

• Excellent Northern Lights viewing location.
• Peaceful setting away from city lights.
• Proximity to the ocean and coastal scenery.
• Nearby guesthouses and smaller hotels.

Hotel Kriunes

Located on the shores of Lake Ellidavatn, just a short drive from Reykjavik, Hotel Kriunes offers a peaceful setting and excellent opportunities for Northern Lights viewing. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a restaurant with lake views, and a relaxing atmosphere. The surrounding area is relatively dark, making it a great place to escape the city lights and enjoy the Aurora. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the lake to find an even darker viewing spot.

Key Features:

• Peaceful location on Lake Ellidavatn.
• Relatively dark surroundings for Northern Lights viewing.
• Comfortable rooms and a restaurant with lake views.

Reykjavik Domes

For a unique and immersive experience, consider staying at Reykjavik Domes. These geodesic domes are located just outside of Reykjavik and offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the night sky. Imagine lying in bed and watching the Northern Lights dance above you through the dome’s transparent roof. This is truly an unforgettable way to experience the Aurora. Keep in mind that dome accommodations might be a bit more rustic, but the experience is worth it.

Key Features:

• Unique geodesic dome accommodations.
• Panoramic views of the night sky.
• Immersive Northern Lights viewing experience.

Frost and Fire Hotel

Located in Hveragerði, a town known for its geothermal activity, the Frost and Fire Hotel is about a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik. The hotel offers a combination of comfort and natural beauty, with access to hot springs and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Its location further from Reykjavik means darker skies and increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Relax in the geothermal hot tubs while watching the Aurora shimmer above you.

Key Features:

• Location in Hveragerði, away from city lights.
• Access to geothermal hot springs.
• Stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Hotels Further Afield (for guaranteed dark skies)

These hotels require a bit more travel from Reykjavik but offer truly dark skies and exceptional Northern Lights viewing opportunities.

Hotel Husafell

Hotel Husafell is located in West Iceland, about a 2-hour drive from Reykjavik, and is renowned for its stunning natural surroundings and minimal light pollution. The hotel offers a range of activities, including glacier tours, hiking, and, of course, Northern Lights viewing. Its remote location guarantees dark skies and excellent chances of seeing the Aurora. The hotel also boasts a geothermal swimming pool, perfect for relaxing under the Northern Lights.

Key Features:

• Remote location in West Iceland.
• Minimal light pollution and dark skies.
• Geothermal swimming pool.
• Range of outdoor activities.

Hótel Grímsborgir

Located about an hour’s drive from Reykjavik in South Iceland, Hótel Grímsborgir offers luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The hotel features several outdoor hot tubs, perfect for soaking under the Northern Lights. Its location away from major towns ensures dark skies and excellent viewing opportunities. The hotel also offers guided Northern Lights tours to nearby locations.

Key Features:

• Luxurious accommodations.
• Outdoor hot tubs.
• Dark skies and excellent Northern Lights viewing.
• Guided Northern Lights tours.

360 Hotel & Thermal Baths

Located about a 90-minute drive from Reykjavik, the 360 Hotel & Thermal Baths boasts panoramic views and a unique geothermal bathing experience. Its elevated location and distance from city lights make it an ideal spot for Northern Lights viewing. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant with stunning views, and of course, the relaxing thermal baths where you can soak while watching the Aurora.

Key Features:

• Panoramic views.
• Geothermal thermal baths.
• Elevated location and dark skies.
• Comfortable rooms and a restaurant with views.

Tips for Maximizing Your Northern Lights Viewing Experience

Choosing the right hotel is just one piece of the puzzle. Here are some additional tips to help you maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights:

• Check the Aurora Forecast: Websites like the Icelandic Meteorological Office (vedur.is) provide Aurora forecasts, including the KP index, which indicates the level of geomagnetic activity.
• Monitor Cloud Cover: Clear skies are essential for viewing the Northern Lights. Check weather forecasts and cloud cover maps.
• Escape Light Pollution: Even if you’re staying in a hotel outside of Reykjavik, try to find an even darker spot away from streetlights.
• Dress Warmly: The Icelandic nights can be very cold, especially during the winter months. Dress in layers and bring warm hats, gloves, and scarves.
• Bring a Camera: Capture the beauty of the Northern Lights with a camera that allows you to adjust the settings manually. Use a tripod to avoid blurry photos.
• Be Patient: The Northern Lights can be unpredictable. Be prepared to wait, and don’t give up too easily.
• Consider a Guided Tour: Experienced guides can take you to the best viewing locations and provide valuable information about the Aurora.
• Turn Off Your Phone Screen: The bright light from your phone screen can impair your night vision.
• Use a Red Light Headlamp: If you need light, use a red light headlamp to preserve your night vision.
• Respect the Environment: Be mindful of the environment and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Beyond the Northern Lights: Other Activities in Reykjavik

While the Northern Lights are a major draw, Reykjavik and its surrounding area offer a wealth of other activities and attractions. Consider these options to enhance your trip:

• Golden Circle Tour: Visit the iconic Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and Thingvellir National Park.
• Blue Lagoon: Relax in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, a unique and rejuvenating experience.
• Whale Watching Tour: Embark on a whale watching tour from Reykjavik harbor and spot humpback whales, minke whales, and other marine life.
• Reykjavik City Walk: Explore the city’s charming streets, colorful houses, and historic landmarks on a guided walking tour.
• Hallgrímskirkja Church: Visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church and take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of Reykjavik.
• Harpa Concert Hall: Admire the stunning architecture of the Harpa Concert Hall and attend a concert or performance.
• National Museum of Iceland: Learn about Iceland’s history and culture at the National Museum of Iceland.
• Shopping in Laugavegur: Browse the shops and boutiques along Laugavegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street.
• Dining in Reykjavik: Sample Icelandic cuisine at one of Reykjavik’s many restaurants, from traditional dishes to modern fusion cuisine.
• Horseback Riding Tour: Experience the Icelandic landscape on horseback with a guided riding tour.

Booking Your Hotel and Northern Lights Tour

Once you’ve chosen your ideal hotel, it’s time to book your accommodations and any desired Northern Lights tours. Here are some tips for booking:

• Book in Advance: Hotels and tours, especially during peak season (winter), can sell out quickly. Book well in advance to secure your spot.
• Compare Prices: Use online travel agencies to compare prices and find the best deals.
• Read Reviews: Check reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the hotel’s quality and service.
• Check Cancellation Policies: Make sure you understand the hotel’s and tour operator’s cancellation policies in case your plans change.
• Consider Travel Insurance: Travel insurance can protect you against unexpected events, such as flight delays or cancellations.
• Book Flights Strategically: Look for flights that arrive early in the day to maximize your time for exploring, or consider an overnight flight to get a head start.
• Consider Car Rental: While tours are available, renting a car gives you more freedom to explore at your own pace, especially for chasing the Northern Lights. Be sure to check weather and road conditions if driving yourself.

Conclusion

Witnessing the Northern Lights is a truly magical experience, and choosing the right hotel can significantly increase your chances of seeing this natural wonder. Whether you prefer the convenience of a hotel within Reykjavik or the tranquility of a secluded location further afield, there are options to suit every taste and budget. By considering the factors outlined in this article and following the tips for maximizing your viewing experience, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable Northern Lights adventure in Iceland. Remember to be patient, dress warmly, and embrace the beauty of the Icelandic night sky. Happy Aurora hunting!