Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, Höfn

Pros

• Positioned in a prime location off the Ring Road, you'll have easy access to explore the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and Skaftafell nature reserve, both just a short drive away.
• The in-house restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on incorporating local Icelandic products as well as accommodating vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dietary preferences.
• Enjoy complimentary access to a wellness spa, including hot tubs, a dry sauna, and a gym.
• Rooms are designed with high ceilings and large windows, offering views of the surrounding Hvannadalshnúkur mountain and the North Atlantic Ocean (only 17 mi/27 km away).
• The bar is a social hub for guests and has a daily happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm.
• You can make use of the free self-parking and electric car charging stations.

Cons

• Given Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon's remote location, some guests might be put off by the drive to other shopping or dining options, the nearest village being Kirkjubæjarklaustur about an hour away.
• Access to the spa area is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Authenticity

Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon is a contemporary stay that takes advantage of its remote location on Iceland's southern coast. The single-story property is oriented so guest rooms look out to either Hvannadalshnúkur, the highest peak in Iceland, or out toward the North Atlantic (across the Ring Road). The hotel's restaurant emphasizes fresh local produce, providing a taste of Icelandic (fusion) cuisine with innovative dishes. Though the hotel itself isn't historic (it's part of the Íslandshótel chain), its remote location, room orientation, and outdoor hot tubs help highlight what makes Iceland special: rugged, unspoiled nature. 

Location

Nestled between Skaftafell nature reserve and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and backed by the Vatnajökull ice cap, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon is ideally located for exploring southern Iceland's dramatic landscapes. You'll find yourself just off the Ring Road (Route 1) surrounded by mountains—you'll be at the base of Hvannadalshnúkur—and quiet countryside, with Skaftafell and the glacier lagoon and its popular Diamond Beach each just a 25 minute drive away. Fjallsárlón, meanwhile is about 20, and the fishing town of Höfn is 1.5 hours away.

Rooms & Bathrooms

Seven room types are stylish and contemporary, featuring high ceilings, slatwood feature wall, industrial light fixtures, and large windows that look out to Hvannadalshnúkur or the ocean. The decor is modern, with a soothing muted color palette of grays, browns, taupes, and forest green that complement the natural surroundings. Deluxe Rooms and Suites have a little more space with a sitting area, while Executive Suites offer a private balcony with a personal hot tub. 

Amenities

Unwind in the complimentary spa area, which includes hot tubs, a sauna, and a gym. Dine at the on-site upscale restaurant that highlights Icelandic fusion cuisine, while the bar is a popular spot for guests as well as visitors, especially during happy hour. The terrace provides a perfect setting to take in the surrounding beauty, making it an ideal place to relax after a day of exploring.

Family-Friendliness

Families of three can request the Triple Room or the more spacious Family Deluxe Room, and while extra beds aren't available, cots for infants are. The restaurant's dinner service features a kid's menu for the pickier eater.

Wildlife

Past kimkim guests have noted spotting sheep right out their hotel window.