5-Day Small Group Journey Around Iceland

Akureyri Berjaya Iceland Hotels is a modern, comfortable hotel located on the hill overlooking the charming town of Akureyri in North Iceland. The hotel’s prime location provides stunning views of the Eyjafjörður fjord and easy access to the town’s cultural attractions, restaurants, and outdoor adventures. Below is a detailed guide on what guests can expect during their stay.

Accommodation

The hotel offers 99 bright, spacious rooms that cater to solo travelers, couples, families, and groups. Room options include standard, deluxe, and family rooms, all equipped with modern amenities such as

• flat-screen TVs
• free Wi-Fi
• work desks
• private bathrooms

The deluxe rooms are designed for guests seeking extra comfort, featuring seating areas and panoramic windows that frame views of the fjord or surrounding mountains. Family rooms offer additional space and can accommodate extra beds, making them ideal for guests traveling with children. All rooms feature minimalist Nordic decor with neutral tones and simple furnishings, creating a relaxing atmosphere.

Dining Options

The hotel’s restaurant, Aurora, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual yet stylish setting. The breakfast buffet includes a generous selection of hot and cold options, such as eggs, bacon, fresh fruit, cereals, pastries, and Icelandic skyr. Guests can enjoy freshly brewed coffee and tea to start their day.

For dinner, the menu offers a variety of Icelandic and international dishes, including lamb, Arctic char, and vegetarian options, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s large windows allow guests to enjoy the beautiful views while dining.

The hotel also features a cozy bar area where guests can relax with drinks, including Icelandic craft beer or cocktails, after a day of sightseeing.

Amenities and Services

Akureyri Berjaya Iceland Hotels provides a range of services to guests too. Guests can expect free parking on-site available for guests with rental cars.

• 24-Hour Reception: The front desk staff is available around the clock to assist with tour bookings, local recommendations, and any special requests.
• Bicycle Rentals: During the warmer months, guests can rent bicycles to explore Akureyri and its scenic surroundings.

Nearby Attractions

Location is important when choosing your hotels in Iceland and in this case the hotel’s location makes it convenient for guests to explore Akureyri’s highlights. The iconic Akureyri Church, with its striking architecture, is a short walk away and offers stunning views of the town and fjord. The Akureyri Botanical Garden is another must-visit spot, featuring a wide variety of Arctic and international plant species in a beautifully landscaped setting.

The town’s main shopping street, Hafnarstræti, is home to local boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Nearby cultural attractions, such as the Akureyri Art Museum and Hof Cultural Center, offer art exhibitions, performances, and events.

Outdoor Adventures

North Iceland is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. From Akureyri, guests can embark on whale-watching tours in Eyjafjörður, one of Iceland’s best fjords for spotting humpback whales and dolphins. In winter, the Hlíðarfjall Ski Resort, located just 10 minutes from the hotel, offers skiing and snowboarding with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

For a memorable day trip, Lake Mývatn is 90 minutes away by car and features unique geological attractions, including volcanic craters, lava fields, and geothermal springs. Guests can also visit Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” a spectacular cascade located en route to Lake Mývatn.

Practical Information

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM, and check-out is at 11:00 AM. The hotel is located 3 km from Akureyri Domestic Airport, and taxis or airport transfers can be arranged. Public buses also provide convenient transportation within the town.

Other Hotels in North Iceland

• Hotel Kea Akureyri
• Hotel Edda Akureyri

Hérað - Berjaya Iceland Hotels

Hérað Hotel in Egilsstaðir, operated by Berjaya Iceland Hotels, is one of the more contemporary and welcoming hotels in Iceland, located in the heart of East Iceland. This hotel is a popular stop for travelers exploring the rugged beauty of the region, offering modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and easy access to the area's stunning landscapes. Below is a detailed overview of what guests can expect during their stay.

Accommodation

Hérað Hotel features 60 bright and spacious rooms designed with modern Scandinavian decor. Guests can choose between Standard and Superior rooms, both of which are equipped with essential amenities such as

• flat-screen TVs,
• free Wi-Fi,
• work desks,
• and private bathrooms.

The Standard Rooms offer everything needed for a comfortable stay, with cozy beds and large windows providing views of the surrounding town or distant hills. Superior Rooms offer additional space and enhanced views, some with private balconies that are perfect for enjoying East Iceland’s fresh air and natural beauty.

Rooms are decorated in neutral tones with soft lighting and simple furnishings, creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere.

Dining at the Hotel

The hotel’s restaurant offers a refined dining experience that highlights local flavors and ingredients. The menu features a range of Icelandic and international dishes, with a focus on fresh produce from the region, including locally sourced lamb, fish, and vegetables. The restaurant’s large windows provide views of the nearby forests and hills, enhancing the dining atmosphere.

Breakfast is served buffet-style and includes a variety of options, such as eggs, bacon, pastries, yogurt, cereals, fresh fruit, and Icelandic skyr. This hearty breakfast is ideal for fueling up before a day of exploring. For lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers seasonal dishes, soups, and Icelandic specialties, alongside a curated selection of wines and local craft beers.

The hotel’s cozy bar is a great place to unwind with a drink in the evening, whether you prefer a glass of wine or one of East Iceland’s locally brewed beers.

Amenities and Services

Hérað Hotel offers several services and amenities to enhance the guest experience:

• 24-hour Reception: The front desk staff are available around the clock to assist with check-ins, local recommendations, and bookings for tours and activities.
• Free Parking: On-site parking is available for guests traveling with rental cars.
• Outdoor Terrace: The hotel features an outdoor seating area where guests can relax and enjoy the views, especially during the long summer evenings.
• Laundry Service: A laundry service is available for guests who are on extended trips.

Location and Nearby Attractions

Hérað Hotel is located in the center of Egilsstaðir, making it convenient for guests to explore both the town and the surrounding area. Egilsstaðir is the largest town in East Iceland and serves as a hub for travelers.

Nearby attractions include:

• Lake Lagarfljót: A short drive from the hotel, this scenic lake is steeped in legend and is believed to be home to a mythical serpent. The lake’s surroundings are perfect for scenic drives, hikes, and photography.
• Hallormsstaðaskógur Forest: Iceland’s largest forest, located near the lake, offers well-marked hiking trails, picnic spots, and beautiful views of the countryside.
• Hengifoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, Hengifoss features striking basalt cliffs with red clay layers and is accessible via a scenic hiking trail.

During winter, Egilsstaðir is known for its clear skies and low light pollution, making it an excellent spot for viewing the northern lights. In the summer, the midnight sun creates extended daylight hours, perfect for outdoor adventures.

Day Trips and Activities

The East Fjords, with their dramatic coastlines and small fishing villages, are just a short drive away. Guests can also visit Seyðisfjörður, a picturesque fjord town known for its colorful houses, local art scene, and surrounding mountains. Additionally, wildlife enthusiasts can look for reindeer, which are native to this part of Iceland, especially during the winter months.

Practical Information

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM, and check-out is at 12:00 PM. The hotel is approximately 2 km from Egilsstaðir Domestic Airport, and taxis and car rentals are readily available for transportation.

Hérað Hotel by Berjaya Iceland Hotels provides a comfortable and convenient base for travelers exploring East Iceland’s natural wonders. Its combination of modern amenities, exceptional dining, and close proximity to key attractions makes it an ideal choice for those looking to experience the scenic beauty and tranquility of this lesser-visited region of Iceland. 

Other Hotels in East Iceland

• Berjaya Hótel in Höfn
• Gerði Guesthouse

Berjaya Hótel in Höfn

Berjaya Hótel Höfn is a cozy and conveniently located hotel in the picturesque fishing town of Höfn, situated in southeast Iceland. Known for its stunning views of the Vatnajökull Glacier and its proximity to the region's natural attractions, the hotel offers a comfortable base for travelers exploring Iceland’s southern coast. Below is a detailed guide on what guests can expect during their stay.

Accommodation

The hotel features 68 well-maintained rooms designed to accommodate solo travelers, couples, and families. Guests can choose between Standard Rooms, Superior Rooms, and Family Rooms. Each room is furnished with comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and en-suite bathrooms.

The Standard Rooms offer essential comforts and feature large windows that provide views of either the town or surrounding mountains. Superior Rooms are more spacious and come with upgraded furnishings and panoramic views of the Vatnajökull Glacier or the nearby harbor. Family Rooms are designed for those traveling in groups and offer additional space and bedding configurations.

The decor follows a simple Nordic design with neutral tones and wooden elements, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere.

Dining Options

The hotel's restaurant provides a warm dining experience, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Höfn is known as the “Lobster Capital of Iceland,” and the restaurant’s menu reflects this by offering specialties such as langoustine soup, grilled langoustine tails, and other seafood delicacies. Guests can also enjoy a variety of other dishes, including lamb and vegetarian options.

Breakfast is served buffet-style and includes a generous selection of hot and cold items, such as eggs, fresh bread, cheeses, cold cuts, pastries, cereals, and Icelandic skyr. This hearty spread is ideal for fueling up before a day of exploring the region.

Amenities and Services

• 24-hour Reception: The hotel’s front desk is open throughout the day and night to assist guests with check-ins, tour bookings, and local recommendations.
• Free Parking: Ample on-site parking is available, making it easy for guests with rental cars to come and go as they please.
• Laundry Service: Laundry services are available for guests on longer stays.
• Outdoor Seating Area: In the summer months, guests can relax in the hotel’s outdoor seating area and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Location and Nearby Attractions

Location is one of the deciding factors when choosing your hotels in Iceland. Berjaya Hótel Höfn is centrally located, making it easy for guests to explore the town’s shops, cafes, and scenic harbor. The town offers a variety of attractions, including the Hornafjörður Art Museum, which features exhibitions showcasing Icelandic artists and local history.

Höfn is also a perfect starting point for visiting the region’s top natural attractions:

1. Vatnajökull National Park: Just a short drive from the hotel, this vast park is home to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, and features numerous hiking trails, glacier tours, and viewpoints.
2. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Approximately an hour away, this famous glacial lagoon is known for its floating icebergs and abundant wildlife, such as seals and seabirds.
3. Diamond Beach: Located near Jökulsárlón, this black-sand beach is scattered with glittering ice chunks that resemble diamonds, creating a stunning contrast against the dark sand.

Practical Information

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM, and check-out is at 12:00 PM. Höfn is accessible via the Ring Road (Route 1) and is approximately a 5-hour drive from Reykjavík. The hotel is around 7 km from Hornafjörður Airport, which offers domestic flights from Reykjavík for travelers looking to shorten their journey.

Berjaya Hótel Höfn provides a comfortable and welcoming stay with an unbeatable location for exploring the mystic of Iceland’s southeast coast.

Other Hotels in East Iceland

• Hérað Hotel in Egilsstaðir
• Gerði Guesthouse

Hótel Selfoss is located in the south and close to the pearls of the golden circle in the town of Selfoss. The Hotel's riverside restaurant delivers a superb dining experience in one of Iceland’s most celebrated buildings. The dining room is elegantly decorated in low key soft leather gear. This is completed by a relaxing lounge/bar area and an inviting open fire place.

The Riverside restaurant prides itself on its artistic cuisine. All dishes are prepared using only the finest in fresh, local produce. The Riverside Spa at Hótel Selfoss is a richly equipped spa area. It features a steam room, sauna, hot pool, rainwater showers, relaxation room, lounge and bar. It is designed and set up in sense of Icelandic nature and the theme of ice and fire.

Riverside Restaurant

As with many hotels in Iceland, Hotel Selfoss has an elegant on-site restaurant. The restaurant works with local fishermen and farmers who provide fresh high-quality local ingredients. The dining room has a relaxing lounge, bar and a beautiful open fire place.

Riverside Spa

The spa has a warm ambiance inspired by Icelandic nature. Fire, ice, steam, water and the Northern Lights are integrated into the experience. Classic Icelandic steam bath, sauna and relaxation showers. A charming Jacuzzi with a Northern Lights theme integrated into the experience. Its cozy chairs and candles make this even more relaxing. Also a massage services are available with variety of treatments included.

Other 3 Star South Shore Hotels

• Hótel Vík í Mýrdal‍
• Hótel Örk Hveragerði