Hotel Grimsborgir

This hotel offers a unique and memorable experience, primarily distinguished by its exceptional outdoor hot tubs, which provide a perfect setting for relaxation and, for many, a magical view of the Northern Lights. Its tranquil, remote location in the Icelandic countryside makes it an ideal retreat for those seeking peace and natural beauty. The hotel is particularly well-suited for couples looking for a romantic getaway, families who appreciate spacious accommodations and shared amenities, and sightseers keen to explore the nearby Golden Circle attractions. Northern Lights enthusiasts will find the hotel’s setting and dedicated wake-up call service invaluable. Guests consistently praise the attentive staff, the cleanliness of the rooms, and the high quality of the dining experience. To maximize your stay, consider requesting a Northern Lights wake-up call, and be prepared for the possibility of very warm rooms, which might require opening a window for comfort.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's facilities are a significant highlight, with guests frequently praising the numerous hot tubs available. Many rooms offer access to private or semi-private hot tubs, which are consistently noted for their perfect temperature and automatic refilling, providing a luxurious and relaxing experience, especially after a day of exploring. Some accommodations also feature shared lounge areas and kitchenettes within their bungalow-style buildings, offering convenient spaces for groups or families to gather. Guests appreciate the availability of free Wi-Fi throughout the property, ensuring connectivity. Additionally, there is ample parking available, which is a practical benefit for guests traveling by car. The overall design of the property, with its scattered buildings, contributes to a sense of privacy and tranquility.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the hotel for its exceptional cleanliness and the overall comfort of its rooms. The accommodations are frequently described as spacious, modern, and beautifully furnished, often with a cozy, cabin-like ambiance. The beds receive high praise for being extremely comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep for most. In-room amenities such as robes and slippers are a thoughtful touch, particularly useful for accessing the hot tubs. While the rooms are generally quiet, a recurring comment is that they can become too warm due to efficient underfloor heating, sometimes requiring guests to open windows even in cold weather. Some guests note minor preferences regarding shower design, preferring glass screens over curtains, and the occasional lack of sufficient hanging space in the bathroom.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience is a major draw, with the breakfast buffet receiving widespread acclaim. Guests consistently describe it as "amazing," "luxurious," and "excellent," highlighting its variety of fresh, high-quality hot and cold options, including a popular omelet station. It is often considered a perfect start to the day. The on-site restaurant for dinner is also highly regarded for its delicious food and high quality, with many guests enjoying the flavorful dishes and generous portions. While the menu is sometimes noted as being limited and the prices on the steep side, most guests find the culinary experience to be very satisfying, often choosing to dine at the hotel due to its remote location and the quality of the offerings.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a significant advantage for many guests, offering a remote and peaceful setting that is ideal for a tranquil escape and immersion in nature. Its strategic position provides excellent opportunities for Northern Lights viewing due to minimal light pollution, a feature frequently highlighted by visitors who have successfully witnessed the aurora from the property. The hotel serves as an outstanding base for exploring the Golden Circle attractions, with easy access to many popular sites, making it a convenient hub for sightseers. While secluded, it remains conveniently accessible, typically a short 10-15 minute drive to the town of Selfoss, which offers additional dining and shopping options. Ample parking is available on-site, providing practical convenience for guests traveling with their own vehicles.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight their willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay, such as arranging ad hoc meal service when the restaurant was closed, providing timely Northern Lights wake-up calls, and assisting with laundry service. The check-in process is generally described as smooth and welcoming, setting a positive tone for the visit. Many guests feel that the staff contribute significantly to a positive and memorable experience, making them feel valued and at home. While a few isolated comments mention minor issues with responsiveness, the overwhelming sentiment is one of excellent and dedicated service.

Additional Information
The hotel features a distinctive bungalow-style accommodation layout, with rooms often grouped in small, charming buildings, sometimes sharing a lounge or hot tub, which fosters a cozy and intimate atmosphere distinct from traditional hotel structures. Guests occasionally benefit from pleasant room upgrades, enhancing their overall experience and providing added comfort. The hotel is noted for thoughtful touches such as providing personal letters and sparkling wine for special occasions like birthdays, adding a personalized touch to celebrations. The highly valued Northern Lights wake-up call service allows guests to witness the aurora without missing out, a significant advantage given the hotel's prime viewing location. Additionally, guests appreciate the flexibility to specify their room cleaning frequency, catering to individual preferences during their stay.