Hótel Klaustur, Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Pros

• Hótel Klaustur is ideally situated on the Ring Road between two of Iceland's most famous glaciers, Vatnajökull and Mýrdalsjökull, making it a perfect base for exploring the region's natural wonders.
• The property runs 100% on hydroelectric power.
• The on-site KLAUSTUR Restaurant delivers a taste of modern Icelandic cuisine with an international twist, praised for its quality and variety.
• The hotel offers a tasty breakfast buffet that guests frequently highlight as a standout feature of their stay.

Cons

• Local establishments are few and far and shutter around 9 pm, including the hotel's restaurant, which might require planning for late-night dining options.
• While the property's remote location means fewer nearby amenities, it offers a peaceful retreat and convenient access to natural attractions.

Authenticity

While Hótel Klaustur doesn't have much history (the property opened in 1993 and was renovated in 2018), it pulls elements from Iceland's culture and natural landscapes. The artwork, for example, showcases images like Icelandic horses, the Lakagígar craters, and erupting volcanoes, while Klaustur Restaurant serves Icelandic, locally sourced cuisine (Arctic char, lamb, skyr, etc.), though with an international twist. As an eco-conscious country, the hotel operates entirely on hydroelectric power.

Location

Situated in the small village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur on the country's famous Ring Road, Hótel Klaustur is ideally positioned for exploring the popular natural wonders of the area. It's just a 12-minute drive to the Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, a 4-minute drive to Stjórnarfoss, and a jumping-off point to Vatnajökull National Park and the Lakagígar craters farther afield. Not to mention two of Iceland's most famous glaciers, Vatnajökull and Mýrdalsjökull. Despite its remote setting, the hotel is conveniently located for travelers journeying between Reykjavík and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. 

Rooms & Bathrooms

The 57 rooms at Hótel Klaustur are contemporary, with mid-century modern furniture and wood floors. Some accent textiles and furnishings pull in pops of color reminiscent of the country's landscapes: moss green, cool greys, and icy or deep blues. Bathrooms are equipped with L'Occitane products, though some guests noted limited space for toiletries. The Suite offers a separate lounge area, though all rooms are fairly generous in space.

Amenities

Hótel Klaustur features a bright and modern restaurant where you can enjoy a lavish breakfast buffet (included), often praised by guests. Dinner is served in the same space from 5 pm to 9:30 pm, and the relaxed hotel bar is open daily from 4 pm to 11 pm. While the property doesn't have a gym or pool, it's only a 5-minute walk to a sports complex that does. Note The Suite and Deluxe Guest Room offer vouchers to the nearby public pool and gym (a 5-minute walk).

Sustainability

Deriving 100% if its energy from hydroelectric power, Hótel Klaustur is proud of its eco-friendly initiatives.