Many people might be drawn to the luxury of modern hotels, with incredible facilities, plush carpets, and smiling concierges. But what if what we’re looking for is a different getaway? One where we find peace, solitude, and an intimate connection with nature. Well, there are also hotels that offer this kind of experience: Glamping (luxury camping) is an emerging trend. Escape from the big cities, like Akureyri, and experience a bubble hotel in Iceland.

Sleeping in a Bubble Hotel in Iceland

They are also known as five-million-star hotels. This name refers to the fact that you can see the sky through the transparent walls. The bubble concept appeared as a way to enjoy the Northern Lights without leaving your bed. Of course, staying in this hotel doesn’t guarantee you’ll see them, but you certainly have a better chance of not missing them this way.

These bubbles are located in the heart of Iceland's nature, so you'll be surrounded by the most authentic views and sounds. During winter in Iceland, the stars and snow will capture all your attention. In the summer months, romance is served with the midnight sun and birdsong.

The bubbles are dome-shaped and are designed to accommodate two adults. They have a 180cm bed, and children under 6 years old can stay with their parents. If it's a couple with a child over 6 years old, they will need a second bubble. Since this type of accommodation is intentionally located in the middle of nature, no food is available on-site. However, there are nearby villages where you can buy everything you need.

These bubbles are located in two places: the south coast and the Golden Circle. The south coast bubbles are near Ölvisholt, 70km from Reykjavik. The Golden Circle bubbles are near Reykholt, 95km from the capital. They don’t have a reception per se, but a staff member will be waiting for you when you arrive. They’ll show you your “room” and provide all the necessary information.

Interior of a bubble hotel during the day

The bubbles are perfect for couples who want to escape from everything, turn off their phones, and connect with each other. One of the good things about Iceland is that you don’t have to worry about snakes or mosquitoes. What better plan than to take a long walk through breathtaking landscapes and then rest in your bubble while you watch the stars? If it gets dark, no problem, there’s a lamp in the bubble, and you can turn it off when you're ready to enjoy the Northern Lights, one of the best things to do in Iceland.

The Bathroom in the Bubble Hotel

The bubbles are undoubtedly one of the most special accommodations in Iceland. They have a minimalist design, with minimal furnishings and no WiFi, but of course, you’ll need to take a shower. Don’t worry, there are facilities with two bathrooms and two showers for guests. They are located in the middle of all the bubbles, about 30-50 meters from each one. The price for one of these bubbles for two people is 23,900 ISK per night.

The company Buubble offers guided tours that end in one of these bubbles. They have two options: the South Coast tour and the Golden Circle tour, both available year-round. The tour includes pick-up and return to Reykjavik, with stops at some of Iceland’s most iconic locations. They offer a day full of adventures and the best rest in one of these special bubbles. The next morning, they’ll take you back to Reykjavik.

Alternative Accommodations in Iceland

The bubbles are not the only place where you can practice Glamping in Iceland. There are other options where you can also be in close contact with nature. Let’s take a look.

Bubble hotel in a snowy landscape

Boutique Camping

This tent hotel is located about 75km from the capital, in Loftsstadir-Vestri, a family farm. It’s a peaceful and cozy place, and each of the tents has unique decoration. There’s plenty of space inside for a king-size bed and your luggage. There are two sizes: the double tent for 13,900 ISK/night and the family tent for 22,000 ISK/night.

Cabins in Fossatún

These cabins at the Fossatún campsite are a more luxurious option compared to the tents, but still affordable. The basic cabins cost 7,110 ISK per night. You also have access to shared bathrooms and kitchens, as well as hot tubs. There are larger cabins for families, as well as a hotel and hostel. This accommodation is located 90km north of Reykjavik. There’s a troll-themed playground for the little ones and excellent trails in the area.

Reykjavik Domes

These spacious domes are located just 10km from the city. There are two types: standard domes with a kitchen, shared bathroom, and fireplace. The larger and Deluxe domes have a private bathroom with a jacuzzi and can accommodate up to 3 people. Prices vary depending on the dates, and you can check yours on the Reykjavik Domes website. They are far enough from the city lights and offer beautiful views of the mountains. Parking and WiFi are included in the price.

The Esjan Buses

Esjan is a spectacular mountain visible from Reykjavik, about 21 km away. At the base of the mountain, there are several refurbished buses turned into accommodations, with beds, common areas, and kitchens. There's also a service area in the middle of the buses where there’s a shared bathroom. If you have time during your visit to Iceland, hiking Mount Esjan is a must. The views from the top will leave you in awe. The route is not one of the easiest, and depending on your fitness level, it will take you between 2 and 4 hours to ascend and descend.

Bubble hotel with the Northern Lights in the background

Experience in a Bubble Hotel in Iceland

After this introduction to glamping in Iceland, what do you think? Immerse yourself completely in the country’s nature and leave the noise of the cities behind with your car rental in Iceland. Who knows? The Northern Lights might want to greet you if you visit us in winter. What better place to see them than from your private bubble, in the middle of nowhere, with no light around?