At a Glance
Adventurers and outdoor types exploring the more remote corners of Iceland who do not want to backtrack to Reykjavík at the end of every day should book at the Rangá, located in Hella, close to the main activities and sights of the Golden Circle. Rooms have a simple, log cabin aesthetic.
Review
A cozy log cabin, made entirely of pine imported from Canada, the Rangá has 38 lovely rooms, most of which have easy access to outdoor hot tubs from which to enjoy the expansive views. The new wing of the building can be rented out in its entirety and includes the spacious Royal Suite, with a large sitting area and a Jacuzzi. Seven master suites feature unique decorations that describe each of the seven continents. Among the over-the-top decorative elements in these one-of-a-kind rooms: an ostrich egg chandelier in the “Africa” suite, a beautiful wooden bar hidden behind a sliding screen in the “Japan” suite, and a copper tub in the “Canada” suite (which is rumored to be the most expensive single item of furniture in the hotel).
The area’s activities include everything from glacier tours, hiking and ice climbing to cave diving, river rafting and fishing. Rangá named for the East Rangá salmon river, draws avid fishermen for salmon fishing. (Fall is the best season for salmon fishing and it is necessary to obtain a license.) If you come during the winter, the Rangá is in a perfect location to see the Northern Lights. You can request that staff ring your room with a wake call, if the unpredictable light show begins in the middle of the night. And, if you should happen not to be so lucky as to see the Northern Lights, stargazers can still take advantage of the hotel’s own telescopes—the most powerful such instruments in all of Iceland, which allow viewers to see solar eruptions on the surface of the sun.
The hotel’s restaurant provides a delightful culinary experience that pairs a sophisticated menu with upscale farmhouse-style surroundings. The rotating menu features local fish and meats prepared in unexpected ways, like Atlantic salmon accompanied by fresh strawberries or Reindeer Carpaccio with ruccola salad and truffle oil. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are events you will want to savor while enjoying the window filled dining room, which provides sweeping views over flat grassy plains and down to the East Rangá River.
Who Should Stay
Hótel Rangá makes a great base for exploring the Golden Circle and South Iceland. The accommodating staff can help organize daytrips including “super jeep” tours of the highlands, glacier hikes, fishing trips, helicopter sightseeing, and horseback riding.
Written by Indagare
