Hotel Gullfoss

This hotel offers a tranquil escape, uniquely positioned amidst the Icelandic countryside, making it an exceptional spot for Northern Lights viewing and a convenient base for exploring the Golden Circle attractions. Its signature feature is its remote yet accessible location, providing a peaceful retreat while being just minutes from the iconic Gullfoss waterfall. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's warm atmosphere, the high quality of its dining, and the attentive service from the staff. This makes it an ideal choice for sightseers and Northern Lights hunters seeking a serene environment, as well as couples and families looking for a comfortable and well-located stay. To maximize your experience, consider making dinner reservations at the hotel's acclaimed restaurant and be sure to opt-in for the Northern Lights wake-up service.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides ample parking for guests, though some note the driveway and lot are unpaved and can be icy in winter. Inside, guests appreciate the comfortable lounge area and a cozy bar where they can relax. While the hotel does not feature a swimming pool, hot tub, or sauna, which some guests missed, the common areas offer a welcoming space. Rooms are equipped with a coffee maker or coffee and tea facilities, and a mini-fridge for convenience. Most guests found the Wi-Fi reliable and fast, allowing for easy photo uploads and staying connected.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently praise the hotel's cleanliness, describing rooms as spotless and well-maintained. The comfortable beds and quality linens contribute to a restful night's sleep, with many guests reporting a great night's sleep. Rooms are generally found to be spacious and warm, offering a cozy ambiance, though some found them a bit small. The bathrooms are typically clean and modern, often featuring a spacious shower. However, some guests noted the absence of separate shampoo and conditioner, with only a combined shower gel dispenser available. Noise levels are generally low, contributing to the peaceful atmosphere, though a few guests mentioned occasional disturbances from thin walls or closing doors. Many rooms offer beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's restaurant receives widespread acclaim for its exceptional food quality for both dinner and breakfast. Guests rave about the delicious dinner options, often highlighting dishes like lamb fillets, asparagus soup, and salmon, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. While the dinner menu is often described as limited, the quality is consistently high, though some found the portions small or the prices high (typical for the region). The breakfast buffet is a major highlight, offering a wide variety of choices including fresh fruits, homemade bread, and a good selection of hot and cold items, ensuring a satisfying start to the day. The restaurant and lounge area also provide a lovely atmosphere with scenic views.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent location for exploring the Golden Circle, being just a few minutes' drive from the iconic Gullfoss waterfall and a short distance from the Geysir area. Its remote setting in the countryside provides a peaceful and quiet environment, making it an ideal base for tourists and sightseers. The hotel's isolated position also makes it a prime spot for Northern Lights viewing, away from light pollution. Ample parking is available on-site, providing convenience for guests traveling by car. This strategic placement allows guests to visit popular attractions early in the morning, avoiding crowds.

Staff & Service
The friendly staff consistently receives high praise for their helpfulness and attentiveness, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience. Guests frequently commend the quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, such as room upgrades or assisting with lost items. A standout service is the Northern Lights wake-up call, where staff will knock on guests' doors if the aurora becomes visible, a feature highly appreciated by many. Most guests found the service to be excellent and personable, though a few isolated comments mentioned instances of staff being less welcoming or appearing short-staffed at times.

Additional Information
A unique and highly valued service offered by the hotel is the Northern Lights wake-up call, where staff will alert guests if the aurora is visible, allowing them to experience this natural phenomenon directly from the hotel grounds. Guests should be aware that the hotel's exterior, while renovated and modern inside, is often described as having an unassuming appearance from the approach road, which can be misleading. The parking lot is unpaved and can become icy in winter, which some guests found challenging. Additionally, while bathrooms are well-equipped, some guests noted the absence of separate shampoo and conditioner, with only a combined shower gel dispenser provided. The hotel is family-run, contributing to its warm and personal atmosphere.