Iceland’s unique accommodations, like bubble and igloo hotels, offer travelers an unparalleled way to experience its natural wonders, from the Northern Lights to the Midnight Sun. This blog post will dive into the top bubble and igloo hotels in Iceland, detailing their features, locations, and unique offerings, while comparing them to help you choose your perfect stay.
1. Buubble Hotel Ölvisholt: The 5 Million Star Hotel
The Buubble Hotel is perhaps Iceland’s most famous bubble accommodation. Located in a remote forest near Reykholt, each bubble offers an uninterrupted view of the stars and, during winter, the dancing Northern Lights. The bubbles are comfortably furnished, with nearby shared facilities, ensuring a blend of nature immersion and modern convenience.
What makes Buubble unique is its integration with guided tours. Guests can explore iconic landmarks like Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir before retreating to their cozy bubble for a magical night under Iceland’s vast skies.
Location: Located in the Icelandic wilderness, the Bubble Hotel offers a one-of-a-kind stay in transparent bubbles designed for stargazing and immersion in nature.
Key Features:
- Unique Experience: Sleep under the stars in a bubble-shaped tent, providing the ultimate view of the Northern Lights and Iceland’s vast landscapes.
- Privacy: The hotel consists of private, transparent bubbles situated far from other guests, ensuring a serene and intimate experience.
- Modern Amenities: Each bubble is equipped with a comfortable bed, blankets, and a heater to ensure a cozy atmosphere despite the cold weather.
- Stunning Views: Perfect for watching the Northern Lights or Iceland’s magical landscapes without the distraction of traditional hotel rooms.
- Eco-Friendly: The hotel places emphasis on sustainability and minimal environmental impact.
Perfect For:
- Couples: A dreamy, romantic getaway surrounded by breathtaking nature and the Northern Lights.
- Nature Lovers: Those looking to connect with Iceland’s stunning wilderness while maintaining a touch of comfort.
- Northern Lights Seekers: Offering an unparalleled view of the aurora borealis from the comfort of your bubble.
2. Buubble Hotel Horsshagi: The 5 Million Star Hotel
3. Panorama Glass Lodge
Panorama Glass Lodge is a unique and stunning accommodation located near the village of Hvolsvöllur in southern Iceland. This boutique lodge offers guests the chance to experience nature in a very special way, with luxurious, fully-glass cabins that provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Location: Situated about a 1.5-hour drive from Reykjavik, Panorama Glass Lodge is perfectly positioned for viewing the Northern Lights, as well as the nearby glaciers, volcanoes, and the South Coast’s scenic beauty.
Highlights and Features:
- Glass Cabins: Each cabin is designed with a full glass roof and walls, allowing guests to sleep under the stars or watch the Northern Lights dance across the sky from the comfort of their bed.
- Private Hot Tubs: Many of the cabins come with private outdoor hot tubs, offering the perfect place to relax while taking in the surrounding natural beauty.
- Modern Amenities: The cabins are equipped with modern comforts, including a full kitchen, comfortable furnishings, and stylish interiors.
- Eco-Friendly: The lodge is designed to be eco-conscious, blending seamlessly with the natural environment while minimizing its ecological footprint.
- Proximity to Nature: In addition to the Northern Lights, guests can explore nearby attractions such as waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanoes, with easy access to day tours of the Golden Circle and South Coast.
4. Aurora Igloo
Aurora Igloos is a unique accommodation option located in Hella, a town in South Iceland, offering an unforgettable experience with its glass-roofed igloos, designed for optimal Northern Lights viewing. This charming retreat is ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature while having the comfort of modern amenities.
Location: Hella is situated in the Þjórsárdalur valley, surrounded by stunning landscapes, including volcanoes, waterfalls, and geothermal areas. It’s an excellent base for exploring Iceland’s South Coast and is within reach of popular attractions like the Golden Circle, the South Coast’s waterfalls, and Þingvellir National Park.
Highlight Features:
- Glass-roofed igloos for Northern Lights viewing
- Cozy interiors with heated floors, private bathrooms, and comfortable beds
- Peaceful, remote location for an intimate experience with nature
- Proximity to South Iceland’s main attractions such as Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and glaciers
- Ideal for couples and those seeking a unique, romantic getaway
If you’re planning a trip and want to know more about tours and accommodations, feel free to reach out to Iceland Travel Guide for custom itineraries!
5. Golden Circle Domes
6. Reykjavík Domes
- Location: Near Reykjavík, Iceland
- Highlight Features:
- Geodesic Domes: The domes are modern, comfortable, and designed to provide stunning views of the surrounding nature, perfect for stargazing and Northern Lights watching.
- Luxurious Interior: The interiors are cozy and stylish, with soft lighting, comfortable beds, and modern amenities. Some domes even feature a private bathroom, making for a more comfortable stay.
- Northern Lights Experience: Due to their location in a remote area outside Reykjavik, the domes offer an excellent vantage point for viewing the Northern Lights, away from the light pollution of the city.
- Private Hot Tubs: Many of the domes come with a private hot tub, offering a relaxing way to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
- Peaceful Retreat: The domes provide a peaceful and secluded setting, allowing guests to unwind and immerse themselves in nature while still being close enough to Reykjavik for city exploration.
For travelers who want to enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty without straying far from Reykjavík, Reykjavík Domes is an excellent option. These domes blend rustic charm with urban convenience, offering a more accessible way to experience glamping in Iceland.
- Ideal For: Travelers who want a nature experience close to Reykjavík. Guests can explore Reykjavík by day and retreat to their dome at night to enjoy Iceland’s pristine skies. While it lacks the remoteness of other options, it offers a unique balance of city and nature.
7. Klettar Tower Iceland
Comparison of Bubble and Igloo Hotels
Feature | Buubble | Panorama Glass Lodge | Aurora Igloo | Reykjavik Domes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Location | Reykholt (Remote forest) | Hella (South Iceland) | Hella (South Iceland) | Near Reykjavík
|
Key Attraction | Tours included | Private hot tubs | Budget-friendly option | Proximity to Reykjavík |
Luxury Travel | Comfortable, basic | High luxury | Mid-range | Mid-range |
Best for | Tour & stay packages | Romantic getaways | Budget-conscious stays | Urban-nature balance |
Unique Feature | Transparent forest bubbles | Glass cabins with tubs | Cozy igloos | Geodesic domes |
How to Choose the Right Bubble or Igloo Hotel
When selecting your accommodation, consider:
- Your Itinerary: If you’re planning to explore the Golden Circle, Buubble’s tour integration is a perfect fit. For South Coast exploration, Panorama Glass Lodge or Aurora Igloo offer great bases.
- Budget: Aurora Igloo is a more affordable option, while Panorama Glass Lodge caters to luxury travelers.
- Proximity to Reykjavík: Choose Reykjavík Domes for easy access to the city, or opt for other options if you prefer seclusion.
- Special Occasions: Panorama Glass Lodge stands out for honeymoons and anniversaries, while Buubble offers a more adventurous vibe.
Conclusion: A Night to Remember
Iceland’s bubble and igloo hotels redefine the travel experience, offering unforgettable nights under the stars or Northern Lights. Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or a budget-friendly escape, these accommodations provide a unique connection to Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes.
Ready to book your stay? Explore our selection of bubble and igloo hotels and turn your Icelandic dreams into reality!
