Laki

This hotel offers a memorable stay, particularly for its remote and peaceful location which provides stunning views of the surrounding nature, including glaciers and lakes. It is especially renowned as an excellent spot for Northern Lights enthusiasts, with guests often seeing the aurora from the property. The hotel is a popular choice for road trippers and nature lovers seeking a convenient stopover between major attractions like Vik and the glacier lagoons. Families and couples appreciate the comfortable accommodations and the opportunity to relax amidst the scenic landscape. Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff and the delicious breakfast. To make the most of your visit, consider utilizing the dedicated viewing areas for the Northern Lights and be prepared for a tranquil setting away from urban amenities.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a cozy bar and lounge area that guests find inviting, offering a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation and socializing. Many appreciate the rooftop terrace, which serves as a prime location for observing the Northern Lights. While the hotel provides Wi-Fi, some guests in certain sections, particularly the bungalows, reported inconsistent or weak connectivity. An elevator is available, which guests found convenient for luggage. However, some rooms lack essential in-room amenities such as a refrigerator and a kettle, which some travelers found inconvenient for longer stays. The common areas are generally well-maintained and contribute to a welcoming ambiance.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. However, feedback on room condition is mixed; while some rooms are described as spacious, modern, and well-appointed, others, particularly in older sections, are noted as dated, small, or basic, with issues like peeling wallpaper or worn paint. Noise levels can be a concern, with many guests reporting thin walls, leading to audible disturbances from neighboring rooms, corridors, or the restaurant above, especially when large tour groups are present. Bathrooms also receive varied comments, with some being small or dated, and occasional reports of issues like low shower pressure, lack of hooks for towels, or persistent unpleasant odors.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast buffet is consistently highlighted as a major positive, described as excellent, delicious, and offering a wide variety of options, including homemade bread and good coffee. Guests appreciate the extensive spread, which often includes local Icelandic items. While the breakfast area can become crowded during peak times, and some items may run out, the overall quality is highly regarded. The restaurant offers dinner that is often praised for its quality, flavor, and use of local ingredients. However, the dinner buffet is frequently mentioned as expensive, and it is often the only dining option available at the hotel, which some guests found limiting. The bar is noted for its cozy atmosphere and good selection of beverages.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a remote and peaceful location, set amidst beautiful scenery with views of glaciers and lakes, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility. It serves as a convenient stopover for travelers exploring the Ring Road, strategically positioned between popular attractions like Vik, Skaftafell, and the glacier lagoons. The surrounding area offers walkable paths and beautiful grounds for guests to enjoy nature. The hotel provides ample parking, which is generally easy to access, though some guests noted that the parking areas can become slippery in winter conditions. Due to its isolated setting, there are no supermarkets or other restaurants within easy walking distance.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for being exceptionally friendly, helpful, and attentive. Guests frequently commend their welcoming demeanor and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. The check-in and check-out processes are generally described as quick and easy. Specific examples of accommodating service include arranging earlier breakfast for guests with early tours, offering packed breakfasts, providing Northern Lights wake-up calls, and facilitating room upgrades. While the vast majority of feedback is positive, a few guests noted instances where staff appeared overwhelmed or less attentive during very busy periods, particularly with large tour groups.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel comprises both older and newer sections, with some finding the rooms in the older parts to be more dated compared to the renovated areas. A recurring safety concern mentioned by guests is the slippery ramp and stairs leading to the entrance, especially during winter months, which can pose a challenge. A unique and charming aspect of the hotel experience is the presence of a friendly hotel dog, often a Border Collie, which frequently interacts with guests and adds to the welcoming atmosphere. The hotel also features displays that highlight the local culture, including farming history and the impact of lava ash, offering a glimpse into the region's heritage.