The Best Hotels in Selfoss, Iceland

Get a true taste of the Icelandic outdoors at the cosy and modern Lambastadir Guesthouse
Get a true taste of the Icelandic outdoors at the cosy and modern Lambastadir Guesthouse | Courtesy of Lambastadir Guesthouse / Expedia
Nammie Matthews

Writer

Though a small town of around 6,500 people, Selfoss has plenty to offer those who travel through it, whether on the way to the Golden Circle or as part of a Ring Road trip. If you’re in search of tranquil riverside spas, log fires with views of the Northern Lights or simply somewhere cosy to lay your head for the night, this town in southern Iceland delivers in spades, with each of these hotels in Selfoss set amid a rugged rural landscape.

1. 360 Hotel

Resort, Spa Hotel

Room with sofa at 360 Hotel with patio doors overlooking stark wilderness
Courtesy of 360 Hotel / Expedia

Just a 15-minute drive from Selfoss, the boutique 360 Hotel is close enough to all of the conveniences and comforts of the town, yet the remoteness affords an unobscured view of the starry night sky. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights from your bed. Start your day properly with a delicious breakfast, before heading out to the cascading Urriðafoss waterfall, just 10 minutes’ drive away.

2. Fosshotel Hekla

Hotel

Fosshotel Hekla lounge with fire and sofas, wood panel walls
Courtesy of Fosshotel Hekla / Expedia

A charming country hotel with high standards of hospitality, Fosshotel Hekla is within easy reach of some of the greatest peaks in Iceland, with Mount Hekla close by. Dine in the exceptional hotel restaurant for a 180-degree view of the beautiful surroundings, and spot the Northern Lights if the conditions are right. The hotel’s restaurant uses only the freshest ingredients, supplied by local farmers.

3. Hotel Grimsborgir

Luxury

Hotel Grimsborgir room with wood floor, net curtains and champagne on ice
Courtesy of Hotel Grimsborgir / Expedia

To relax in luxury amid one of the most diverse landscapes in the world, head to Hotel Grimsborgir – one of the few five-star lodgings available in the area. All 89 of the plush rooms come with a balcony or terrace, plus access to one of 29 geothermal hot tubs on-site. The hotel has first-class service, offering exceptional dining options and even an optional wake-up call should the Northern Lights become visible.

5. Lambastadir Guesthouse

Hotel

Lambastadir Guesthouse sauna in circular style with view of a field
Courtesy of Lambastadir Guesthouse / Expedia

Get a true taste of the Icelandic outdoors at the cosy and modern Lambastadir Guesthouse, where owners Almar and Svanhvit welcome you with open arms, advice on the local area and delicious daily waffles served with home-made raspberry jam. It sits on a farm, just off the Ring Road, with sheep, horses, geese, ducks, chickens, rabbits, a dog and a cat. The mesmerising Kerid crater is just a short drive away.

6. Hotel South Coast

Luxury, Spa Hotel

Hotel South Coast room with tv, sofa, wood floor
Courtesy of Hotel South Coast / Expedia

A modern hotel with a tranquil spa, fitness centre and spacious rooms, Hotel South Coast is a great choice with plenty of spectacular natural sights nearby. Start your day with a continental breakfast before heading out to the Great Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park. Try the local restaurants of Selfoss on your journey back, and then unwind in either of the two hot tubs, or in the Finnish sauna and relaxation area.

7. AU44 Hostel

Hotel

AU44 Hostel kitchen in black with concrete floors
Courtesy of AU44 Hostel / Expedia

Simplicity is the ethos behind this tiny, friendly hostel in Selfoss. Self-catering, with a fully equipped kitchen, it holds up to eight guests across four twin rooms, so you won’t be squabbling over utensils or shower time. The Golden Circle can be reached within an hour by car, while the shops, cafes and restaurants of Selfoss are just a short walk away.

8. Frost and Fire Boutique Hotel

Boutique Hotel, Spa Hotel

Exterior of Frost & Fire Boutique Hotel with river, green hills on a sunny day
Courtesy of Frost and Fire Boutique Hotel / Expedia

Admire a geothermal show at Frost and Fire Boutique Hotel, where steam rises from the hillsides, the Varma river flows idly and the Northern Lights dance overhead. The luxury amenities at the hotel, from the exceptional Reykr restaurant to some of the best swimming and bathing facilities in the area, mean you won’t want to leave. But if you do, you’ll be treated to lush swathes of countryside, stunning vistas and easy access to the Golden Circle.

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