Hótel Húsafell, Borgarnes

• You'll be located on a remote West Iceland farmstead and nature reserve, surrounded by 25,000 acres of lava fields, glaciers, and birch forests.
• This is Iceland's first (and only) fully self-sustainable hotel, drawing on the property's natural geothermal and hydroelectric power.
• Rooms are decorated in a simple, Nordic style, with individual duvets, large floor-to-ceiling windows, and heated wood floors, with options for private terraces and sofa beds.
• The on-site restaurant is renowned for its creative, locally sourced menu and spectacular dining area.
• Guests have access to the property's geothermal pool complex, a nine-hole golf course, and extensive hiking trails.
• Breakfast is included in the rate and includes Icelandic specialties like smoked salmon, skyr yoghurt, and homemade berry jams.

• This is a remote setting, and you won't find much in the way of shops and restaurants within a 30-minute drive. 
• The neighboring Lindin-Geothermal Baths are open to the public, so they can get crowded.

Authenticity

Hótel Húsafell was built in 2015, but its surrounding farmland has been passed down through the same family for seven generations. They collaborated with architect (and Húsafell resident) Helgi Hjalmarsson to design a low-profile structure inspired by the spectacular natural setting, incorporating regional materials like timber and slate alongside large expanses of glass. Inside, you'll find more local touches among the understated Nordic decor, including sheepskin chairs, handmade wool blankets, and original artwork and sculptures by Páll Gudmundsson (who just happens to live across the road).

Location

Hótel Húsafell is part of a 25,000-acre (10,117 ha) expanse of historic farmland and protected nature reserve in the Borgarfjörður region of West Iceland, about two hours north of Reykjavík. Surrounded by lava fields, birch forests, and glacial streams, it serves as a perfect gateway to nearby natural attractions, including the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, the Víðgelmir lava tube, and the Langjökull glaciers. It's a remote setting—the closest village is Reykholt, about 20 minutes west—and you'll need a car to enjoy the area. Free parking is available on-site, with EV charging stations for an added fee.

Rooms & Bathrooms

Each of the 48 rooms features a minimalist Nordic aesthetic, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows, heated wood floors, and premium mattresses with individual duvets and Icelandic wool blankets. Standard units are the smallest; Deluxe options add more space with a seating area and sofa bed, while Superior Deluxe rooms and Suites include private patios. The spacious bathrooms are clad with local stone and feature Icelandic Sóley Organic toiletries and walk-in showers (plus deep soaking tubs in upgraded rooms).

Amenities

The on-site restaurant is a highlight, serving a creative menu of seasonal Icelandic ingredients in a spectacular dining room with soaring timber ceilings, 180-degree views, and a freestanding central fireplace. Nearby, a small bistro serves more casual fare, and there's a cozy bar and lounge for craft cocktails and local craft beers. Breakfast is a generous buffet of Icelandic classics, including waffles, skyr yogurt, smoked salmon, and homemade jams. The neighboring geothermal swimming complex is open to guests, as is the nine-hole golf course, and hikers can connect with an extensive trail system to explore. In colder months, northern lights calls will alert you if the aurora makes an appearance.

Family-Friendliness

Children are welcome at Hótel Húsafell. The Deluxe and Superior Deluxe room options are the best choices for families (accommodating two adults and two children comfortably); extra rollaway beds are available at an additional fee. The restaurant offers a children's menu, and kids can enjoy the fun outdoor play area and nearby soccer field.

Sustainability

This is Iceland's first 100% self-sustainable hotel, fully powered by geothermal and hydroelectric energy. The on-site golf course holds GEO certification for its sustainable design and practices, and the restaurant is committed to sourcing seasonal ingredients from hyperlocal producers and farmers. Guests who want to learn more about the hotel's eco-conscious efforts can join a complimentary tour of the property, which includes a visit to a small hydroelectric plant powered by glacial streams.