Hótel Lækur, Golden Circle

Hótel Lækur is a family-run country hotel almost directly between Selfoss and Vík, which makes it ideal for those who want to experience southern Iceland's landscape and sites along the Golden Circle. Selfoss is just over 40 minutes away, and Vík and the Black Sand Beach are an hour and 15 minutes by car. The waterfall of Seljalandsfoss, which you can experience from inside a cave, is 35 minutes away, and Skógafoss, one of the biggest waterfalls in the country, is just under an hour's drive. 

Nestled in the middle of peaceful fields, this family-run hotel was once a farm, so it has country-style buildings, and there are even animals on the premises—including friendly llamas. Rooms are modern and simple, allowing you to focus on the natural surroundings outside. Families can comfortably spread out in triple or quadruple rooms with multiple beds. For extra space, book the split-level suite with a river view, which can sleep up to six in two bedrooms and a living room. Bathrooms include rainfall shower heads.

The on-site restaurant is located in the former sheep house, which gives it some cozy character. It offers a small but tasty menu that includes options for vegetarians and children, a major plus in this remote location. Cozy up with a drink at the bar or relax in the sauna and hot tub, free for hotel guests. If you're hoping to catch the northern lights, ask the staff to call you when they appear, and head out to find a spot away from the lights of the hotel; there's plenty of space on the property to watch them.