Iceland Accommodation Guide: Top 10 Hotels and Glass Lodges for Northern Lights Viewing
Chasing the Northern Lights is an essential experience for any independent trip to Iceland. While many travelers book guided aurora tours, you can often see the lights on your own simply by heading to a location with minimal light pollution and strong geomagnetic activity. To help you save on tour fees and enjoy the show in comfort, here are 10 accommodations perfectly suited for Northern Lights viewing!
1. Fosshotel Nupar
This hotel, part of the Fosshotel group, sits along Route 1 near Vatnajökull National Park—ideal for glacier hikers. Its minimalist design evokes serene isolation, offering a poetic retreat in Iceland’s land of ice and fire. While amenities are basic (Wi‑Fi, TV, and optional breakfast), rooms are impeccably clean and comfortable. Set on a remote plain with no other light sources for miles, it’s one of the best places to catch the aurora right from your doorstep.
▼ Book Fosshotel Nupar Now ▼
2. Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
The luxurious 4‑star flagship of the Fosshotel group, Glacier Lagoon is just a short drive from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the Diamond Beach. Its sleek Nordic aesthetic, with dark accents inspired by Iceland’s black sands, perfectly complements the surrounding scenery. Rooms feature Wi‑Fi, in‑room entertainment, and mini‑bars, while on‑site amenities include a fitness center, sauna, outdoor hot pools, restaurant, bar, and lounge. Floor‑to‑ceiling windows (and some rooms with private balconies) mean you can stay warm indoors while gazing at the aurora.
▼ Book Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon Now ▼
3. Panorama Glass Lodge
Panorama Glass Lodge has become Iceland’s most Instagrammed hideaway. Tucked away in the southwestern wilderness, this boutique retreat features just seven private glass cabins, offering 360° views of the night sky. The special reflective glass ensures total privacy while you stay cozy inside, complete with underfloor heating and an outdoor hot tub. A small kitchenette lets you prepare simple meals before you lie back and watch the aurora dance overhead.
Currently, bookings are available exclusively through the official website: panoramaglasslodge.com
▼ The all-glass design makes for an exceptional aurora-viewing experience! (Image source: panoramaglasslodge.com)
4. Glass Cottages
Glass Cottages offers panoramic glass roofs and floor‑to‑ceiling windows in a minimalist Nordic style. Whether it’s snowing or clear, you can stay warm inside while admiring the aurora from your plush cabin. Each unit includes a coffee maker and basic kitchen equipment, and some feature private outdoor hot tubs. Located near Hella, it’s just a 90‑minute drive from Reykjavík and far enough from light pollution to ensure brilliant night skies.
▼ Each cabin features an outdoor hot tub—perfect for soaking under the stars and Northern Lights. (Image source: glasscottages.com)
5. Hotel Laxa
Nestled in the Mývatn region of northern Iceland, Hotel Laxa is just a five-minute drive from the lake and under an hour from the whale-watching town of Húsavík. Its modern design blends Icelandic tradition with floor‑to‑ceiling windows overlooking Lake Mývatn. The hotel offers a 24/7 aurora alert service—staff will let you know the moment the lights appear—plus a cozy bar where you can sip a hot drink while you wait.
▼ Book Hotel Laxa Now ▼
6. Landhotel
Inspired by traditional Icelandic farmhouses, Landhotel uses warm wooden accents and cozy decor to create a homely atmosphere on the south coast. Surrounded by attractions like Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the village of Vík—all within an hour’s drive—it also offers fitness facilities, a sauna, hot tubs, game rooms, a restaurant, bar, and on‑site activities like horseback riding and fishing. Located on a dark plain, it’s another top choice for aurora viewing.
▼ Book Landhotel Now ▼
7. Magma Hotel
Located in Kirkjubæjarklaustur (“Churchtown”), Magma Hotel consists of 12 independent cabins, each with floor‑to‑ceiling windows framing the surrounding wilderness. With private patios, it’s easy to step outside when the aurora appears. Rooms are spacious, featuring king‑size beds and plenty of natural light. The hotel’s on‑site restaurant and bar serve meals and drinks if you prefer not to cook.
▼ Book Magma Hotel Now ▼
8. Hotel Ranga
Situated near Hella, Hotel Ranga is tucked away from city lights in a serene rural setting. Its unique wooden lodge design and top‑tier aurora services make it a favorite among travelers. The hotel offers 24/7 aurora forecasts and wake‑up calls, plus a dedicated “Aurora Lounge” with heated seating and complimentary hot drinks. When the lights appear, all exterior lights are turned off for optimal viewing. Rooms feature Wi‑Fi, TV, and some include bathtubs, while a communal outdoor hot pool lets you soak under the sky.
▼ Book Hotel Ranga Now ▼
9. Vik Apartment
Located on the Ring Road in the charming village of Vík, this apartment-style property is just minutes from local shops and the famous black sand beach. While the interiors are straightforward, the rooftop terrace offers expansive views and minimal light pollution—perfect for aurora spotting. Units range from studios for couples to larger apartments for families, all with living areas, kitchens, and basic amenities like Wi‑Fi and heating.
▼ Book Vik Apartment Now ▼
10. Fossatun Camping Pods
Fossatun Camping Pods is a folklore-themed campground featuring RV sites and cozy geodesic domes. Set beside a private waterfall with an extensive hiking network and family-friendly games, it’s ideal for all ages. The domes come with comfortable beds, lighting, and heating, though bathrooms are communal. A shared kitchen and outdoor hot pool let you relax under the aurora in a truly unique setting.
▼ Book Fossatun Camping Pods Now ▼
