On my recent trip to Iceland, I had the pleasure of staying at Hotel Borg, an iconic property in the heart of Reykjavík. Known for its blend of Art Deco charm and modern amenities, Hotel Borg offers an experience that is both luxurious and authentically Icelandic.
Location and How to Get There
Hotel Borg is situated in downtown Reykjavík, right on Austurvöllur Square. The location is ideal for travelers who want to be within walking distance of some of the city’s most popular attractions, such as the Alþingi (Iceland’s Parliament), Harpa Concert Hall, and the Old Harbor. The hotel’s central position also means you’re just a stone’s throw away from Reykjavík’s vibrant shopping streets, restaurants, and cultural sites.
To get to the hotel, I opted for a Flybus transfer from Keflavík International Airport, which took around 45 minutes. The bus dropped me off at the BSI Bus Terminal, and from there, it was a quick 10-minute taxi ride to Hotel Borg. Alternatively, you can arrange for a private transfer directly to the hotel, or if you’re driving, the hotel offers valet parking.
Booking Process
I booked my stay at Hotel Borg through their official website, which was a straightforward process. The site is user-friendly, allowing you to choose from a variety of room types, including standard rooms, deluxe rooms, and suites. I opted for a deluxe room, attracted by the promise of extra space and city views. The booking confirmation was prompt, and I received an email with all the necessary details, including check-in instructions and information about the hotel’s amenities.
The Environment and Facilities
Walking into Hotel Borg, I was immediately struck by its elegant Art Deco design, which harks back to the hotel’s opening in the 1930s. The lobby is spacious, with marble floors, chandeliers, and sleek black-and-white color schemes that exude timeless luxury. The check-in process was smooth and efficient, with the staff offering a warm welcome and providing a quick overview of the hotel’s features.
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed to enhance your stay. One of the highlights is the Borg Spa, which includes a sauna, steam bath, and hot tub—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the city. There’s also a well-equipped fitness center if you feel like staying active during your stay. For dining, Hotel Borg is home to the elegant Borg Restaurant, where you can enjoy a blend of Icelandic and international cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
Room and Stay Experience
My deluxe room was a haven of comfort, with plush bedding, dark wood furnishings, and subtle Art Deco accents that tie into the hotel’s overall aesthetic. The room offered a stunning view of Austurvöllur Square, which was especially beautiful at dusk when the city lights began to twinkle. The bathroom was equally impressive, featuring heated marble floors and high-end toiletries that added a touch of luxury to the experience.
During my stay, I took full advantage of the hotel’s amenities, spending time in the Borg Spa and enjoying a few meals at the Borg Restaurant. The spa was particularly memorable, offering a serene environment to relax and rejuvenate. The staff were attentive without being intrusive, ensuring that every aspect of my stay was comfortable and enjoyable.
Overall, I would rate my experience at Hotel Borg as excellent. The combination of its prime location, elegant design, and top-notch facilities make it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to explore Reykjavík in style. On a scale of 1 to 10, I’d confidently give it a 9.5.
Exploring More: Five Hotels to Consider in Iceland
While Hotel Borg provided me with an unforgettable experience, I also spent time researching other noteworthy accommodations in Iceland. Here are five hotels that caught my attention, each offering unique qualities that make them stand out.
1. The Retreat at Blue Lagoon: Ultimate Luxury and Wellness
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most prestigious hotels, known for its unparalleled luxury and wellness offerings. Located within the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa area in Grindavík, about 45 minutes from Reykjavík, this hotel offers an immersive experience in one of Iceland’s most iconic natural settings.
Guests at The Retreat have exclusive access to the Retreat Lagoon, a private extension of the Blue Lagoon with mineral-rich, milky-blue waters that are both rejuvenating and soothing. The hotel’s design seamlessly blends with the surrounding volcanic landscape, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views of the lagoon and the moss-covered lava fields.
Accommodations at The Retreat are nothing short of spectacular. Each suite is designed with natural materials like wood, stone, and lava, creating a tranquil, minimalist aesthetic that enhances the sense of peace and relaxation. Rooms are spacious, with features like private terraces, freestanding bathtubs, and direct access to the lagoon, ensuring a luxurious stay.
Dining at The Retreat is a culinary journey in itself. The Moss Restaurant, one of Iceland’s top dining establishments, offers a menu inspired by Icelandic nature, featuring ingredients sourced from local farmers and fishermen. Guests can also enjoy the Lava Restaurant, where they can dine on Icelandic specialties with views of the Blue Lagoon.
For those seeking ultimate relaxation, The Retreat Spa offers a range of treatments, including in-water massages and unique rituals that use Blue Lagoon’s mineral-rich waters and algae. The hotel also provides guided hikes through the surrounding lava fields, offering guests a deeper connection to the natural beauty of Iceland.
2. ION Adventure Hotel: A Gateway to Icelandic Nature
Nestled near Þingvellir National Park, ION Adventure Hotel is a boutique hotel that perfectly encapsulates Iceland’s rugged beauty. Located about an hour’s drive from Reykjavík, this hotel is an ideal base for exploring the Golden Circle and other natural wonders of southern Iceland.
ION Adventure Hotel is renowned for its striking architecture, which seems to emerge organically from the surrounding lava fields. The hotel offers 45 rooms, each with modern Scandinavian decor that complements the natural environment. Large windows provide panoramic views of the landscape, including the nearby volcano Mt. Hengill and the Þingvallavatn lake.
The hotel’s Silfra Restaurant & Bar is a highlight, offering dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring fresh and vibrant flavors. The bar, with its selection of Icelandic craft beers and spirits, is a cozy spot to unwind after a day of adventure.
One of the unique aspects of ION Adventure Hotel is its commitment to sustainability. The hotel is powered by geothermal energy, and its design emphasizes harmony with the environment. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s outdoor hot tub, which provides a perfect vantage point for viewing the Northern Lights during the winter months.
3. Hotel Rangá: A Luxurious Countryside Escape
Located in the southern part of Iceland, Hotel Rangá offers a luxurious escape in the heart of the countryside. Situated between Hella and Hvolsvöllur, about an hour and a half drive from Reykjavík, this four-star hotel is surrounded by some of Iceland’s most stunning natural attractions, including waterfalls, volcanoes, and glaciers.
Hotel Rangá is particularly famous for its prime location for Northern Lights viewing, with minimal light pollution and a remote setting that enhances the experience. The hotel even offers a wake-up service for guests who don’t want to miss the chance to see the auroras.
The hotel’s design is warm and inviting, with a rustic log cabin style that complements the surrounding landscape. There are 51 rooms, ranging from cozy standard rooms to themed suites inspired by the different continents. Each room offers modern amenities and stunning views of either the river, mountains, or the countryside.
Dining at Hotel Rangá is an experience in itself. The hotel’s restaurant is known for its gourmet Icelandic cuisine, featuring dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. The menu includes a variety of Icelandic specialties, such as lamb, arctic char, and langoustine. The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list, carefully curated to complement the flavors of the region.
4. Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre: Modern Comfort in the Heart of the City
For travelers seeking a blend of modern comfort and central location, Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre is an excellent choice. Situated in the bustling heart of Reykjavík, just a short walk from the city’s main attractions, this hotel combines contemporary design with Icelandic touches, offering a unique and comfortable stay.
The Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik features 112 rooms and suites, each designed to reflect the natural beauty of Iceland with a modern twist. The rooms are spacious and equipped with all the amenities you’d expect from a Hilton property, including luxurious bedding, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The design incorporates local materials and artwork, giving the rooms a distinct Icelandic character.
One of the standout features of this hotel is the Canopy Central Café and Bar, where guests can enjoy a complimentary artisanal breakfast each morning, featuring fresh local ingredients. In the evening, the bar offers a selection of local craft beers, wines, and cocktails, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring the city.
The hotel also offers a range of services and amenities designed to enhance the guest experience. There’s a 24-hour fitness center, complimentary bike rentals for exploring the city, and a cozy library area where guests can relax with a book or enjoy a game. The Canopy by Hilton is also committed to sustainability, with initiatives in place to reduce waste and energy consumption.
5. Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon: A Gateway to Iceland’s Natural Wonders
Located between Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in the southeast of Iceland, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon offers an exceptional base for exploring some of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders. This four-star hotel is ideal for travelers who want to experience the beauty of Iceland’s glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches while enjoying modern comforts.
The hotel’s location is one of its biggest draws. It’s just a short drive from Vatnajökull National Park, where you can explore the massive Vatnajökull glacier, the largest ice cap in Europe. The nearby Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, with its floating icebergs, is one of Iceland’s most iconic sights and is also within easy reach.
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon offers 104 rooms, each designed with a contemporary aesthetic that emphasizes comfort and style. The rooms feature large windows that frame stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and coffee makers, ensuring a comfortable stay.
The hotel’s restaurant is another highlight, serving a menu inspired by Icelandic cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Guests can enjoy dishes such as lamb, seafood, and vegetarian options, all paired with an extensive wine list. The restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows provide panoramic views, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal after a day of adventure.
Each of these hotels offers a unique experience, from the urban luxury of Canopy by Hilton to the natural beauty surrounding Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon. Whether you’re planning a stay in Reykjavík or venturing out to explore Iceland’s stunning landscapes, these hotels provide excellent options for every type of traveler.
