Cottages in Iceland

Iceland is a land of extraordinary natural beauty, and finding the right place to stay can both personalize and elevate your experience. Whether you dream of a rustic cabin retreat surrounded by lush greenery, a luxury lodge with a private hot tub, or a transparent dome under the northern lights, Iceland offers accommodations as spectacular as its landscapes.

These stays cater to a variety of preferences and budgets, and provide a gateway to the wonders of the island, allowing you to immerse yourself in its rich culture and breathtaking natural environments.

Perks of Staying in a Cottage or Cabin in Iceland

Staying in a cottage or cabin in Iceland offers a unique and immersive experience, blending comfort with the beauty of nature. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, a private retreat can enhance your trip in several ways:

Seasonal Benefits

• Summer (June to August) – With nearly 24-hour daylight from the midnight sun, a cottage allows you to fully embrace Iceland’s long days, whether you're relaxing on a private deck or grilling under the endless sky.

• Winter (September to April) – Escape the city lights and enjoy prime northern lights viewing right from your doorstep. Many cabins are in remote areas, offering dark skies and a cozy atmosphere to enjoy the auroras.

Freedom to Explore

Most cottages and cabins are best suited for travelers renting a car in Iceland, giving you the flexibility to explore Iceland’s landscapes at your own pace. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls along the South Coast, driving through the Highlands, or soaking in natural hot springs, staying outside of Reykjavik allows for a slower pace of travel.

Budget-Friendly & Self-Sufficient

Cottages often come with fully equipped kitchens, making it easy to cook your own meals and save money compared to dining out. Stock up on groceries and enjoy Icelandic specialties like lamb, fresh seafood, or skyr (Icelandic yogurt) in the comfort of your own space.

Comfort & Amenities

Many cottages and cabins come with added luxuries like:

• Hot tubs – Perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure, especially in winter under the northern lights.

• Outdoor grills – Enjoy a barbecue with a stunning Icelandic backdrop.

• Cozy interiors – Warm up by a fireplace or relax in a rustic Scandinavian setting.

Best Golden Circle Cottages and Cabins

The Golden Circle is home to some of Icelands most iconic attractions including Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir geotheral area, and Thingvellir National Park. It’s also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as snowmobiling on glaciers, horseback riding through scenic trails, and hiking to hidden natural wonders.

• Lundur Cottage With Hot Tub: Nestled near Thingvellir National Park, this charming three-bedroom cottage offers a cozy retreat with a private hot tub, perfect for unwinding after exploring the Golden Circle.

• Laugarvatn With Balcony Hot Tub: Situated close to the famous Geysir geothermal area, these comfortable cottages provide modern amenities and easy access to natural hot springs, ideal for a relaxing stay.

• Braedraborg Summerhouse With Hot Tub: Located in the heart of the Golden Circle, this delightful cottage features a well-equipped kitchen and spacious living area, making it a perfect base for families exploring nearby attractions.

• Voerdubrunir Cottage With Hot Tub: Located near Geysir, this charming cottage offers a comfortable stay with a well-equipped kitchen and a hot tub, perfect for relaxing under the stars.

Best South Coast Cottages in Iceland

The South Coast is famous for its picturesque waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacier lagoons, and thrilling excursions like ice caving and glacier hikes. Staying in one of these cozy cottages or cabins not only puts these iconic attractions right in your backyard but also provides a perfect base for unforgettable adventures.

• Vik Cottages: Situated in the heart of Vik, these charming cottages blend modern comfort with traditional Icelandic design, just a short stroll from the black sand beaches.

• Snaebyli Cottage: Nestled in serene countryside, Snaebyli Cottage offers a tranquil escape with rustic charm, perfect for exploring nearby natural wonders.

• North Star Cottage: These well-appointed cottages provide a comfortable base for adventurers seeking to discover Iceland's most celebrated attractions.

• Thakgil Cabins: Nestled in a picturesque canyon, these rustic cottages provide a unique stay amidst dramatic landscapes, with hiking trails and natural beauty at your doorstep.

• Smaratun Farm Eco Lodges: Experience sustainable living at these eco-friendly lodges on a working farm, offering comfortable accommodations and farm-to-table dining in South Iceland.

Best West Iceland Cabins and Cottages

West Iceland is a region of dramatic landscapes, boasting fjords, waterfalls, and unique geological features like lava fields and volcanic craters. Here are some of the best accommodations in the area, so you can make the most of your time exploring this peaceful region.

• Svartagil Cottage near Glanni Waterfall: Set in a serene valley, this cozy cottage offers mountain views and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for nature lovers seeking a peaceful getaway.

• Flankastadir Cottage Borgafjordur: Set in Borgarfjordur, this cozy two-bedroom cottage features a private hot tub and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, ideal for a peaceful retreat.

• Midhraun – Lava resort: Located on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, this unique lodging offers a range of rooms and cottages with modern amenities, set amidst captivating volcanic landscapes.

• Arnarstapi Cottages: Situated in the charming village of Arnarstapi, these cottages provide stunning sea or mountain views, with access to coastal trails and natural attractions.

Best Akureyri Cottages

Akureyri, often called the "Capital of the North," is a vibrant town surrounded by stunning fjords, mountains, and geothermal areas. It's an excellent base for exploring North Iceland’s natural beauty, from whale watching in Eyjafjordur to soaking in nearby hot springs.

• Oeskubakki Cottages: Nestled in a serene location just outside Akureyri, these charming cottages offer a cozy atmosphere with modern amenities, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring North Iceland.

• Svart Lodge: This stylish, Scandinavian-inspired lodge combines luxury with rustic charm, featuring panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a private hot tub for unwinding under the northern lights.

• 2-Bedroom Beautiful Countryside Cabin: Located in the peaceful countryside near Akureyri, this spacious cabin provides a perfect mix of comfort and seclusion, ideal for families or small groups looking to immerse themselves in Icelandic nature.

• Hrimland Cottages: Perched on the slopes above Akureyri, these modern cottages offer stunning views of Eyjafjordur and the town below. With private hot tubs and access to local skiing in winter, they’re perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

Best North Iceland Cabins and Cottages

North Iceland is known for its geothermal wonders, whale watching, and serene landscapes. This region also offers unique winter experiences, such as dog sledding across snow-covered plains, providing an unforgettable way to explore Iceland's arctic wilderness. 

• Hestasport Cottages: Located in Varmahlid, just off the Ring Road, these charming cottages offer comfortable accommodations with access to a communal hot tub, perfect for relaxing after horseback riding adventures.

• Ytri Vik Cottages: Perched along the scenic Eyjafjordur coastline, Ytri Vik offers cozy cottages with panoramic sea views, providing an idyllic retreat for nature enthusiasts.

• Log House in North Iceland With Natural Hot Springs: This spacious log house combines rustic charm with modern comforts, featuring three bedrooms and a large terrace to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

• Loulundur Asbyrgi: A peaceful cottage retreat near Asbyrgi Canyon, offering a secluded stay surrounded by nature, ideal for hiking and exploring Vatnajokull National Park.

• Snaelda Cottage: A cozy and well-equipped cabin near Akureyri, perfect for travelers seeking a private escape with easy access to the region’s natural wonders.

Best East Iceland Cabins and Cottages

East Iceland is a haven for those seeking rugged fjords, untouched wilderness, and a slower pace of travel. With fewer crowds than the south, this region offers stunning coastal scenery, abundant wildlife—including reindeer—and charming fishing villages.

• Kalda Lyngholt Cottages: A cozy retreat near Egilsstadir, these cottages offer a tranquil setting surrounded by lush nature, with access to the region’s hiking trails and geothermal baths.

• Ormurinn Guesthouse Cottages: Located on the shores of Lake Lagarfljot, these cottages are a short drive from Egilsstadir. You'll enjoy picturesque lake views and might even spot Iceland's Loch Ness Monster, the legendary Lagarfljot wyrm!

• Solbakki: Nestled in a quiet valley, Solbakki offers a peaceful escape with mountain views and a cozy, home-like atmosphere, ideal for travelers looking to unwind after exploring East Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.

• Bragdavellir Cottages: Situated near the coastal town of Djupivogur, these rustic yet modern cottages provide a perfect base for exploring Iceland’s eastern fjords, with excellent hiking and birdwatching opportunities nearby.

Unique Stays: Domes and Aurora Cabins in Iceland

If you're seeking something truly memorable, consider staying in one of Iceland's most unique accommodations. These lodgings are designed to dissolve the boundaries between guests and nature, offering an immersive and raw Icelandic experience.

• Golden Circle Domes: Combine adventure and comfort in these unique geodesic domes, offering a glamping experience under the stars near the Golden Circle.

• Aurora Igloo: Enjoy a front-row seat to the northern lights in these cozy igloos, designed for optimal aurora viewing in a secluded setting.

• Volcano Huts: Immerse yourself in nature at Volcano Huts, offering rustic accommodations in the heart of Thorsmork Valley, surrounded by hiking trails and volcanic landscapes.

• Fossatun Camping Pods: Experience a blend of comfort and nature in these charming camping pods, set amidst picturesque surroundings with access to hot tubs and a troll-themed walking trail.

• Reykjavik Domes: Enjoy a unique glamping experience just minutes from Reykjavik, with luxurious domes featuring king-size beds and stunning views of Mount Esja.

Top Luxury Cottages in Iceland

Comfort meets stunning natural beauty for an unforgettable getaway at Iceland's best luxury cottages and cabins.

• Golden Circle Luxury Cottages: Experience upscale comforts in these luxurious cottages, featuring private hot tubs and picturesque views, ideally situated for exploring the Golden Circle.

• Klettasel Villa: Klettasel Villa stands out for its striking modern design that harmonizes with the surrounding natural beauty, offering spacious accommodations with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a private hot tub.

• Villa Hveragerdi: Situated in the geothermal town of Hveragerdi, this modern villa features stylish interiors, a private hot tub, and access to hiking trails and hot springs.

• Nupur: A beautifully designed retreat near Isafjordur, Nupur combines modern luxury with cozy cabin vibes, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, a private hot tub, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

• Svartaborg Luxury Villas: These sleek, Scandinavian-style villas in North Iceland offer panoramic views, high-end furnishings, and a private hot tub, creating a perfect escape for those seeking privacy and elegance.

• Blueberry Hills Villa: Located just 15 minutes from Reykjavik, this stylish villa offers a blend of modern comfort and nature, with a private hot tub, spacious interiors, and easy access to the capital's attractions.

Your Iceland Adventure Awaits

Picture yourself waking up to the stillness of an Icelandic morning as sunlight dances on snow-capped peaks. Whether you’re soaking in a steaming hot tub under the endless summer sky or marveling at the enchanting northern lights from your bed in a geodesic dome, Iceland promises an experience like no other.

Each accommodation offers more than just a place to sleep—it’s a doorway to unique experiences on this magical island. From the black sand shores of the South Coast to the pristine landscapes of the North, there’s a perfect retreat for everyone.