Curator’s statement
I found something I didn’t know I needed: true rest. South Iceland offered me sleep like I’ve never experienced. It was deep, quiet and nourishing. At Hotel Rangá, I embraced the long nights, the stillness and the slow rhythm of winter. One day I hiked a volcano crater, the next I floated in a steaming hot tub beneath the stars. And yes, I tasted fermented shark. Iceland was both invigorating and healing — a place to reset.
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Things to do in Iceland
Hike the Eyjafjallajökull Volcano Crater
Walk near the site of the 2010 eruption and take in the massive scale of the crater. A powerful reminder of nature’s force — and Iceland’s resilience.
Visit the Eyjafjallajökull Visitor Center
This intimate center offers a compelling look at the eruption’s impact on the local community. Simple, heartfelt and worth the stop.
Explore Sólheimasandur’s Black Sand Beach & plane wreck
A short walk across the stark, windswept sands takes you to the iconic US Navy plane wreck — haunting, cinematic and unmissable.
Ride a quad through volcanic landscapes
An exhilarating ride across rugged terrain, surrounded by lava rock and icy silence. Thrilling, but not over-the-top.
Go geyser and waterfall spotting
Classic Iceland at its finest. Each stop — from explosive geysers to misty waterfalls — felt unique and theatrical.
Discover Iceland’s countryside churches
Scattered across hills and valleys, these tiny churches add gentle beauty to the drama of the landscape.
Stargaze from Rangá’s observatory
The hotel offers a high-powered telescope and warm snowsuits so you can gaze at the night sky in comfort. The staff will always offer to register you for their Northern Lights wake-up call — you don’t even need to ask.
Places to eat & drink in Iceland
Hotel Rangá Restaurant
Inventive, locally rooted and quietly elegant. I dined here daily and was always impressed. The highlight? Tasting fermented Greenland shark paired with a shot of Brennivín — Iceland’s legendary schnapps, also known as “Black Death.” A challenge and a story to tell.
Farmers Bistro
This is a slow-food bistro at a geothermal greenhouse farm. Tucked away in the village of Flúðir, this charming, family-run bistro lives by the motto “we serve what we grow.” It’s located at Iceland’s only mushroom farm, where ingredients are organically grown and handpicked in nearby geothermal greenhouses. Expect a menu centered around their own mushrooms, bell peppers and herbs — all fresh, simple and deeply local. A perfect, soulful stop on the way to or from adventure.
Cozy mountain hut lunch stop
During one of our snowy hikes, we came across a rustic mountain hut with wood-paneled interiors and small-paned windows — full chalet vibes. It was the perfect spot to warm up and enjoy a hearty lunch in the middle of the Icelandic wilderness. I can't recall the exact name, but there are several similar cozy spots along South Iceland’s hiking routes.
Need to know
When to go: November brings fewer crowds, deep sleep and a richer atmosphere. Expect about eight hours of daylight early in the month, shrinking to around five by the end. Long nights invite slowness and rest.
Getting around: A 4x4 rental is recommended for flexibility and safety on winter roads. Prefer not to drive? Private transfers can be arranged. We can also help book guided tours — either private for a more intimate experience, or in small groups if you're feeling social.
What to pack: Layers, waterproofs and curiosity. Hotel Rangá provides thermal snowsuits for outdoor stargazing.
Good for: Couples, solo travelers and adventurous adults. Teens would love it, too.
Sustainability: Staying in one central location like Rangá and exploring from there helps reduce your footprint while deepening your experience.
Northern Lights tip: The best chance to see the aurora in Iceland is from September to April, especially between 10 pm and 3 am. I didn’t see it this time — though I chased it — and even that was unforgettable. It’s a reason to return.
Bonus joy: After a volcano hike, soaking under the stars in the hotel’s outdoor garden jacuzzi is everything you didn’t know you needed.
Travel Advisor
Mirjam Shah
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