Exploring the Land of Fire and Ice: An Adventure in Iceland

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Advisor - Kati Vervack
Curated By

Kati Vervack

  • Arts & Culture

  • Nature Escapes

  • Iceland

  • Spring

  • Relaxation

  • Hotel Guide

Exploring the Land of Fire and Ice: An Adventure in Iceland
Curator’s statement

In March of 2024, I spent a week exploring Iceland, and Ion Adventure Hotel served as home base. Placed right between Nesjavellir Geothermal Power Station and Þingvellir National Park, you're immediately immersed in Iceland's culture upon arrival. The wonderful staff were so helpful, equipping us with coffee each morning before we left for that day's journey, and even providing a wake-up call so we wouldn't miss the Northern Lights. Every meal was thoughtfully created with sustainability in mind, and we found ourselves at the geothermal pool every evening.

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Where to stay

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A short drive from Reykjavik, ION Adventure Hotel is located on Mount Hengill, between Nesjavellir Geothermal Power Station and Þingvellir National Park. More simply put, close enough to everything you need, but completely surrounded by nature. From the outside, the hotel blends perfectly into the scenery. From the inside, every inch is thoughtfully designed, including large windows throughout to make sure guests have every opportunity to take in the nature around them. The hotel balances luxury and sustainability with a level of care and appreciation that is hard not to notice. From the organic amenities in the rooms to the Silfra Restaurant’s “slow food” approach, utilizing fresh ingredients from local farmers nearby. The opportunity to end each day at the geothermal spa is truly a one-of-a-kind experience.

Bjarnarfoss cliffs with a shoreline and beautiful clouds in the distance - Kati Vervack
Diamond Beach with chunks of ice strewn about the ocean and shoreline - Kati Vervack

Aptly named, located right on the edge of the Golden Circle, the hotel couldn’t be closer to a myriad of adventures. Beyond the Golden Circle, a day trip by rental car could take you to Vatnajökull National Park, Snæfellsjökull National Park, or the Blue Lagoon. If you’d rather let someone else do the driving, you can book a day tour directly from the hotel. Nearby, Selfoss and Hveragerdi are great little towns where you’ll find restaurants, convenience stores and a peek into local life. When returning back to ION at night, don’t forget to stop by the front desk to set up your Northern Lights wake-up call.

Gullfoss with frozen ocean ice and a shallow shoreline - Kati Vervack

ION Adventure Hotel is a really unique way to experience Iceland, with accommodations and activities for every type of traveler!

Need to know

ION Adventure Hotel offers a luxurious and sustainable stay, completely surrounded by nature. With easy access to the Golden Circle and nearby towns, there's no shortage of things to experience. Iceland is a bucket list destination for most, and this hotel is the perfect place for every type of traveler to see the very best that the country has to offer!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Iceland. In need of further inspiration? Check out Mollie O'Connor’s guide, Luxury 5-Day Girls' Trip to Iceland.

Advisor - Kati Vervack

Travel Advisor

Kati Vervack

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