1. ION Adventure Hotel
Perched on a lava field near Þingvellir National Park, the ION Adventure Hotel combines contemporary design with rugged surroundings. The hotel’s striking architecture stands out against the stark, otherworldly terrain.
Inside, rooms feature minimalist Scandinavian design, with large windows framing the volcanic landscape. Guests can enjoy fine dining, a geothermal spa, and a bar with panoramic views. Adventure-seekers will appreciate that the hotel offers guided tours for glacier hikes, snowmobiling, and Northern Lights excursions. The ION Adventure Hotel is perfect for travelers who want a blend of modern comfort and raw Icelandic nature.
2. Deplar Farm
Tucked in the remote Troll Peninsula, Deplar Farm was once a sheep farm and has been transformed into a luxury lodge with a focus on adventure. Here, you’re truly off the beaten path—surrounded by snowy peaks in winter and lush valleys in summer.
The lodge has stylish, cozy rooms with a rustic-meets-modern feel, and the restaurant serves local, seasonal dishes. Activities include heli-skiing, horseback riding, fly-fishing, and guided glacier tours. Deplar Farm is ideal for adventurous travelers who want privacy, comfort, and access to some of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes.
3. The Retreat at Blue Lagoon
Few hotels can boast a location as iconic as The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, which literally sits within the geothermal waters. Guests enter through the Blue Lagoon’s mineral-rich pools, surrounded by lava formations and misty geothermal steam.
Rooms are sleek and contemporary, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lagoon. The hotel also has private pools, a subterranean spa, and Michelin-star-inspired dining. Staying here feels like entering a futuristic oasis, blending luxury and Icelandic geothermal magic.
4. Buubble Hotels (Glass Igloos)
For travelers chasing the Northern Lights, Buubble Hotels offer a one-of-a-kind experience. These transparent, dome-shaped bubbles allow guests to sleep under the stars—or auroras—without leaving the comfort of a cozy bed.
The interiors are minimalist but comfortable, often with heated floors and private bathrooms. Waking up to Iceland’s vast wilderness around you, while watching the aurora borealis dance above, is an unforgettable experience. Perfect for couples, photographers, or anyone who wants a night of celestial magic.
5. Hotel Ranga
A classic choice for travelers seeking both comfort and adventure, Hotel Ranga is a countryside retreat near the south coast. Known for its log-cabin aesthetic and rustic charm, the hotel offers cozy rooms with large windows, perfect for spotting the Northern Lights.
The hotel also has several gourmet dining options and themed suites, such as the “Astronomy Room,” which caters to stargazers. Guests can explore nearby waterfalls, black sand beaches, and volcanic landscapes, making it a quintessential Icelandic experience.
6. Hótel Búðir
Set on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Hótel Búðir is a small boutique hotel surrounded by lava fields and mountains, with a backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Its black-and-white exterior contrasts beautifully with the wild surroundings, making it a photographer’s dream.
The rooms are simple but elegant, emphasizing comfort and views over opulence. The hotel restaurant serves locally sourced seafood, and the quiet, remote location makes it ideal for couples or travelers seeking serenity. Hótel Búðir combines dramatic landscapes with understated charm.
7. Turf Houses and Eco-Lodges
For a taste of Icelandic history, some unusual hotels offer stays in turf houses or eco-lodges. These accommodations are built using traditional methods, with grass-covered roofs blending into the landscape.
Inside, you’ll find cozy interiors with wood-burning stoves, wool blankets, and rustic furnishings. While some are modernized with private bathrooms and kitchens, the charm of staying in a centuries-old-inspired dwelling is unmatched. These lodges often sit near nature reserves, hot springs, or hiking trails, providing an immersive Icelandic experience.
8. Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
Located between Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon is ideal for travelers exploring Iceland’s south coast. The hotel combines modern design with panoramic views of glaciers and mountains.
Rooms are stylish and spacious, offering comfort after a day of adventure. Guests can join guided tours to glaciers, ice caves, and volcanic landscapes. The hotel’s remote location and striking views make it feel like a hidden gem in the heart of Icelandic wilderness.
9. Northern Light Inn
As the name suggests, the Northern Light Inn is designed for aurora hunters. Located near Akureyri in northern Iceland, the hotel offers cozy, rustic rooms with large windows for nighttime aurora viewing.
The inn provides guided tours for hiking, snowmobiling, and glacier exploration. Its relaxed atmosphere and focus on natural phenomena make it a favorite among travelers who want to experience Iceland’s natural wonders without sacrificing comfort.
10. Magic Mountain Lodge
For families or groups seeking adventure, Magic Mountain Lodge is a secluded retreat near the northern highlands. Rustic cabins and lodges provide comfort while staying connected to nature.
The area is perfect for exploring volcanoes, hot springs, and hiking trails. The lodge emphasizes outdoor activities, local cuisine, and a communal, friendly atmosphere. Magic Mountain Lodge is a great choice for travelers looking for a true Icelandic adventure combined with cozy accommodations.
Why Stay in Unusual Hotels in Iceland
Iceland’s unusual hotels aren’t just about novelty—they enhance your travel experience. Staying in a glass igloo, turf house, or geothermal retreat allows you to connect with the environment in ways that standard hotels cannot.
Many of these hotels are also designed to make the most of Iceland’s natural phenomena: Northern Lights, geothermal pools, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes. Rather than just visiting these wonders, staying in a hotel that complements the scenery makes your trip immersive and unforgettable.
Tips for Booking Unique Stays
Book Early: Unusual hotels, especially glass igloos or remote lodges, have limited availability.
Check Amenities: Some remote hotels may have limited dining options or shared bathrooms. Know what’s included.
Consider Season: Northern Lights are best in winter, while summer offers endless daylight and milder weather.
Pack Accordingly: Some lodges are in isolated areas—bring warm layers, hiking boots, and supplies.
Plan Activities: Many unusual hotels offer tours, excursions, and guided experiences—book in advance to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Iceland is already an extraordinary destination, but its unusual hotels add another layer of magic. From transparent domes beneath the auroras to historic turf houses and geothermal retreats, staying in these accommodations is part of the adventure.
Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or a quirky experience, Iceland’s unusual hotels ensure your journey is unforgettable. They’re more than places to sleep—they’re windows into the country’s unique landscapes, culture, and spirit.
When planning your Icelandic adventure, consider stepping outside the ordinary. Book a stay at one of these unusual hotels, and let the landscapes, the northern lights, and the Icelandic magic work their unforgettable spell.
