Best Family-Friendly Lodges in the Countryside
Category
Categories
Travel Guide
Type
Glacier Lagoons, Bird Sights
Destination
Vatnajokull national Park
High season
Jun - Aug & Nov - Jan
Area
18 sq km
Outflow
Atlantic Ocean
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Introduction
In the land where fire and ice collide, Iceland, you also find moments of tranquility and serenity. You’ll discover these moments in its wide-open spaces, untouched by urban development, inviting you to be one with nature. A trip to Iceland feels like stepping into another world, with its breathtaking vistas, geothermal pools, and northern lights dancing in the skies. A popular means to slow down and withdraw from the fast-paced lifestyle is a vacation spent in family-friendly lodges, ideally located in the countryside. Below, we are going to explore some of the best family-friendly lodges that take full advantage of the picturesque landscape and provide a unique Icelandic experience.
1. Hotel Husafell, Borgarfjordur
Staying at Hotel Husafell feels like you have stepped into a delightful dream. Nestled in a geothermal oasis, this lodge promises unforgettable views of the Snaefellsjokull glacier, cascading waterfalls, and landscapes dotted with Icelandic horses. The gentle hum of the river Blanda and the enveloping hush of the countryside engulfs you, offering instant tranquility.
The area is steeped in history dating back to Viking times, with tales of manipulative trolls and greedy elves who guarded gold underneath the glaciers. The lodge caters to families with activities for all ages. Hiking routes pass along seals’ habitats, through the lava caves, and up the mountains.
2. Hotel Ranga, South Iceland
Imagine relaxing in a hot tub while experiencing the surreal magic of the Northern Lights. Hotel Ranga located in South Iceland, ensures just that. Its remote location is perfect for seeing the Northern Lights and the Milky Way, unhindered by light pollution.
The lodge, looking over the picturesque Mount Hekla, prides itself on an in-house observatory equipped with high-quality telescopes. The knowledgeable staff gives fascinating introductions about Icelandic myths linked with the stars. This lodge offers cultural immersion with traditional Icelandic storytelling evenings filled with tales of ancient Nordic Gods, heroes, and supernatural beings.
3. Magma Hotel, Kirkjubaejarklaustur
Just a stone’s throw from the charming village of Kirkjubaejarklaustur, Magma Hotel is a gem in this stunning lava field setting. The lodge offers a unique experience with each room overlooking the mesmerizing Lake Hoffell and Vatnajökull Glacier, Europe’s largest ice cap.
The area is filled with rich folklore, where tales pass from generation to generation about wicked trolls turned into rocks in daylight and hidden people dwelling in the lava formations. Fun family day trips can be made to the famous black sand beach Reynisfjara, or to the exquisite Fjaðrárgljúfur, a massive canyon carved by glacial water.
4. Frost and Fire Hotel, Selfoss
Located in the charming town of Selfoss, along the Golden Circle route, the Frost and Fire Hotel is nestled among bubbling hot springs, steaming cliffs, and the roaring glacial river, Varma. The sense of peace and tranquillity here is beyond comparison.
The in-house restaurant, Varma, perches on the riverbank with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the mystical Mount Ingólfsfjall, named after the first settler of Iceland. It offers a unique cuisine where geothermal heat is used for cooking traditional dishes. Don’t forget to take a blissful dip in the geothermally heated pool while relishing the magnificent lush-green views.
5. Northern Lights Inn, Grindavik
The Northern Lights Inn offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with beautiful panoramas of the vivid moss-covered lava fields, backdropped by the Atlantic Ocean’s dramatic coastline. It’s located minutes away from the world-famous Blue Lagoon, noted for its healing properties. The lodge excels in creating a family-friendly atmosphere.
Engage in day-long family hikes through the untouched lava fields and witness more of Iceland’s intriguing geology and diverse wildlife. You are, therefore, encouraged to embark on a quest to the local folklore-filled areas like the haunted Gunnuhver Geothermal Area and the mythical Reykjanesviti Lighthouse.
Conclusion
Iceland’s allure lies in its variety and contrasts in landscapes – from mesmerizing glacial lagoons to vibrant volcanic fields. Its countryside accommodations echo these enchanting and extraordinary attributes, providing unique and tranquil experiences for families. Staying in any of these lodges is the perfect recipe for an adventurous and serene vacation. They not only offer an escape to the wilderness but are gateways to the fascinating Icelandic myths and geology. So, why wait? Step into nature’s embrace and soak up the harmonious blend of Icelandic history, culture, and beauty.