Hótel Kea, a landmark hotel established in 1944, is ideally situated in the very heart of the city center in Akureyri, North Iceland's “Capital of the North.” With its convenient location near cultural attractions, shops, and restaurants, this hotel is a popular choice for travelers seeking comfort and proximity to the town’s vibrant atmosphere.
Accommodation
Hótel Kea offers 104 well-appointed rooms designed for both relaxation and functionality. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including standard, deluxe, and superior rooms, as well as junior suites. Each room features modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, workspaces, and coffee- and tea-making facilities.
The superior rooms and suites provide additional luxuries, such as upgraded toiletries, comfortable seating areas, and views of the nearby fjord or the town square. Rooms are tastefully decorated with a minimalist design and warm tones while family rooms and adjoining rooms are available for those traveling in groups.
Dining
The hotel’s in-house restaurant, Mulaberg Bistro & Bar, is renowned for its high-quality Icelandic and international cuisine - like many of Iceland's hotels. The menu focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering dishes such as lamb, Arctic char, and Icelandic cod. The bistro also offers vegetarian options and a curated wine list.
Breakfast is typically served buffet-style and includes an array of choices such as eggs, smoked salmon, pastries, fruit, cereals, and Icelandic specialties like skyr. The on-site bar is a great place to unwind with cocktails, local beers, or a glass of wine after a day of exploring.
Amenities and Services
Hótel Kea provides a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy a 24-hour reception with the front desk staff available at all hours to assist with check-ins, transportation arrangements, and local activity bookings. At the hotel grounds guests traveling by car will find free parking and those in need of laundry and dry-cleaning services can request that at an extra charge.
The hotel also has several event rooms that can accommodate business meetings, conferences, and private gatherings.
Location and Nearby Attractions
Hótel Kea’s central location places guests within walking distance of Akureyri’s main landmarks. Guests can easily walk up the 112 step stairs to Akureyri Church. This iconic church of the town, designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, is just steps away from the hotel has great panoramic views of the town and fjord.
Akureyri also has nice botanical gardens, only a short walk from the hotel. A nice stroll in good weather to explore a vast collection of plants from around the world, including rare Arctic flora. A bit further, yet only a 10 minute walk away, is theArt Museum and Hof Cultural Center. These institutions host art exhibits, concerts, and cultural events.The Hof building itself is also a unique architecture inspired by Icelandic nature. The hotel is also located in the downtown area and is surrounded by boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
One of the city's main attractions, that's open all year around, is Jólahúsið Christmas House. Located just 12 minutes drive outside town, it's a magical place that's not to be missed.
Outdoor Adventures
Akureyri serves as a perfect gateway to North Iceland’s outdoor adventures, offering a diverse range of activities throughout the year. The nearby Eyjafjörður fjord is renowned as one of Iceland’s premier whale-watching locations, with daily tours departing from the harbor, providing visitors the chance to witness these majestic creatures up close.
In winter, the snow-covered slopes of Hlíðarfjall Ski Resort, just a 10-minute drive from the town, attract skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts with their well-maintained trails and views of the fjord. For those seeking a memorable day trip, the geothermal wonderland of Lake Mývatn lies just 90 minutes away. This remarkable area boasts otherworldly landscapes, including lava fields, bubbling hot springs, and ancient volcanic craters.
Practical Information
- Check-in: 3:00 PM
- Check-out: 11:00 AM
- Transportation: The hotel is located 3 km from Akureyri Domestic Airport, and airport transfers can be arranged. Public buses and taxis are also readily available.