Northern Light Inn

The hotel offers a unique and memorable stay, primarily distinguished by its exceptional proximity to the Blue Lagoon and its reputation as a prime location for Northern Lights viewing. Guests consistently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, the cleanliness of the accommodations, and the high quality of the food served at the on-site restaurant. This makes it an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic and quiet escape, families who appreciate spacious rooms and attentive service, and travelers on layovers looking for convenient access to the airport and the Blue Lagoon. It is also perfectly suited for those specifically hoping to witness the Aurora Borealis, with the hotel offering a dedicated wake-up call service. To maximize your experience, guests recommend signing up for the Northern Lights alert and taking advantage of the hotel's complimentary shuttle service to the Blue Lagoon.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently praise the hotel's well-appointed facilities that enhance their stay. The wellness area is a notable feature, offering a sauna, steam room, and a gym for relaxation and exercise, with some deluxe rooms including access. The inviting lounge areas are a central hub, featuring a cozy fireplace, comfortable seating, and an honesty bar where guests can enjoy drinks and snacks. These communal spaces are often used for playing games like chess and jigsaws, fostering a relaxed atmosphere. Rooms are equipped with thoughtful touches such as an in-room minibar and L'Occitane amenities in the bathrooms. Additionally, guests appreciate the convenience of free Wi-Fi throughout the property and ample free parking right outside the building, making it easy for those traveling with vehicles. An efficient drying rack in rooms is also a practical amenity for those visiting the nearby lagoon.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel consistently receives high marks for its cleanliness and the overall comfort of its rooms. Guests describe the accommodations as spacious, well-kept, and quaint, providing a relaxing environment. The beds are frequently highlighted for their comfort, often featuring snuggly duvets and quality linens that ensure a restful night's sleep. While most guests found the rooms quiet, some noted occasional noise levels or concerns about soundproofing. In-room amenities contribute to comfort, including L'Occitane toiletries, a coffee maker, and in some cases, a minibar. The bathrooms are generally described as clean and functional, though some found them basic or smaller than expected. Overall, the emphasis on a clean and comfortable sleeping environment is a recurring positive theme.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience, particularly at Max's Restaurant, is consistently lauded by guests. The breakfast buffet receives high praise for its variety and quality, offering a wide selection of hot and cold options, including traditional Icelandic fare, fresh fruits, and pastries. Many guests found it to be a perfect start to their day, with an early buffet available for those with early departures. For dinner, Max's Restaurant is highlighted for its delicious food and excellent service. Popular dishes include the seafood risotto, smoked salmon salad, chicken schnitzel, lamb shank, and fish and chips. The desserts, especially the Skyr cake, are frequently mentioned as spectacular. The restaurant's atmosphere is described as cozy and inviting, making it a top choice for meals, even for those who had planned to dine elsewhere.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is a significant draw, primarily due to its exceptional proximity to the Blue Lagoon, being just a few minutes' drive or a short walk away, with a convenient shuttle service provided. This makes it ideal for early morning or late evening visits to the lagoon. It is also strategically located for airport access, making it a popular choice for layovers. The hotel is set amidst a unique lava field landscape, offering a distinct and otherworldly ambiance. While some guests noted the presence of a geothermal power plant nearby, which can be seen and occasionally associated with a sulfur smell, many found this aspect to be an interesting part of the unique surroundings rather than a detractor. Free parking is readily available, and the hotel's remote setting is considered perfect for Northern Lights viewing due to minimal light pollution.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives glowing reviews for their exceptional service and warm hospitality. Guests frequently describe them as friendly, helpful, attentive, and accommodating, often going above and beyond to assist with various requests. The check-in process is noted as quick and seamless, even for late arrivals, and the staff is praised for their professionalism and caring approach. A standout service is the Northern Lights wake-up call, ensuring guests do not miss the opportunity to witness the aurora. The hotel also provides a convenient shuttle service to and from the Blue Lagoon, and assists with transport arrangements to the airport. Many guests highlight the staff's willingness to provide local advice and their overall dedication to creating a pleasant and memorable stay.

Additional Information
Beyond the standard offerings, the hotel provides several unique aspects that enhance the guest experience. It is notably a family-owned establishment, which many guests feel contributes significantly to its warm, personal, and exceptionally hospitable atmosphere, often noting the owners' direct involvement in guest satisfaction. A distinctive feature is the hotel's proactive approach to guest safety, particularly concerning the nearby geothermal activity; staff are highly commended for their clear and reassuring communication regarding evacuation procedures when necessary, ensuring guests feel secure. The hotel also offers thoughtful amenities such as L'Occitane bath products in rooms and a charming robot lawnmower that adds to the unique character of the property. Guests appreciate the inviting communal lounge areas with a variety of games and a convenient honesty bar, fostering a relaxed and social environment where travelers can unwind and connect.