An architect-designed design hotel in a spectacular volcanic landscape 40 minutes from Reykjavik near Þingvellir National Park. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the otherworldly lava fields, and the hotel offers helicopter tours, glacier hikes, and one of Iceland's best Northern Lights viewing spots from the hot tub.
ION Adventure Hotel occupies a striking architect-designed building in the volcanic highlands near Nesjavellir, approximately 40 kilometres from central Reykjavik on the edge of Þingvellir National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Capital Region's most dramatic landscapes. The hotel's horizontal form and floor-to-ceiling glass walls dissolve the boundary between interior and the surrounding lava field, placing guests inside one of Iceland's most otherworldly geological environments. Dark wood, natural stone, and recycled steel were used extensively in the construction, and the hotel is heated entirely by geothermal energy from the adjacent Nesjavellir Power Plant. Common areas and many rooms face directly toward the lava landscape and open sky, making the property one of the Capital Region's most acclaimed Northern Lights viewing destinations during the autumn and winter months. Rooms and suites are designed around the panoramic experience: beds face the windows, and most rooms include private outdoor access. The ION restaurant serves modern Icelandic cuisine using seasonal local ingredients, and the bar offers a curated selection of Icelandic spirits and craft beers. The hotel's outdoor geothermal hot tub is positioned to face the sky and is one of the most celebrated Northern Lights viewing spots in the region. Adventure programming is central to the hotel's offer: the concierge team organises glacier hiking on Langjökull, snorkelling or diving in the Silfra fissure at Þingvellir, horseback riding across lava fields, fly-fishing in the surrounding rivers, and helicopter tours over the interior highlands. During summer, midnight sun hikes depart directly from the hotel. The property accommodates families and groups for corporate retreats and events. Transfer from Reykjavik city centre takes approximately 40 minutes by car; the hotel can arrange private car service from Keflavík International Airport.
Amenities
- hot tub
- restaurant
- bar
- wifi
- Northern Lights viewing
- adventure tours
- fitness center
Location
Nesjavellir, 801 Selfoss (near Reykjavik)
64.1018, -21.1717 View on map
Highlights
- Architect-designed property set on volcanic lava fields near Þingvellir National Park, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls framing the landscape.
- One of the Capital Region's premier Northern Lights viewing locations, with an outdoor geothermal hot tub facing an open sky.
- Adventure programme includes glacier hiking on Langjökull, snorkelling in Silfra fissure, horseback riding, and helicopter tours.
- Heated entirely by geothermal energy from the adjacent Nesjavellir Power Plant — among Iceland's most sustainably operated hotels.
- ION restaurant serves modern Icelandic cuisine with local seasonal ingredients and panoramic views over the lava landscape.
Tips for visiting
- Book adventure activities and Northern Lights excursions at the time of room reservation — slots fill quickly in autumn and winter.
- The outdoor geothermal hot tub is accessible year-round; late evening use offers the best chance of clear skies for Northern Lights viewing.
- The hotel is approximately 40 kilometres east of central Reykjavik — self-driving via Route 36 offers spectacular views of Þingvallavatn lake.
- Pack warm layering for summer as well as winter — temperatures at this elevated location can be significantly cooler than in the city.
- The Þingvellir National Park visitor centre is a short drive from the hotel; combine a park visit with a stay for the full UNESCO landscape experience.
Accessibility
ION Adventure Hotel is set in a remote volcanic landscape reached by road. The main building is designed with lift access, but the surrounding terrain of lava fields presents natural mobility challenges. Guests with accessibility requirements should contact the hotel directly before booking to discuss room options and transfer arrangements.
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Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is ION Adventure Hotel located?
The hotel is at Nesjavellir near Þingvallavatn lake, approximately 40 kilometres east of central Reykjavik and at the edge of the Þingvellir National Park UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What adventure activities does the hotel organise?
The hotel's activity programme includes glacier hiking on Langjökull, snorkelling and diving in the Silfra fissure, horseback riding across lava fields, fly-fishing, helicopter tours, and Northern Lights chases in season.
Is ION Adventure Hotel eco-friendly?
The hotel is heated entirely by geothermal energy from the nearby Nesjavellir Power Plant and was designed with sustainable materials including recycled steel. It is among Iceland's most environmentally conscious hotel operations.
Is there a hot tub or pool at the hotel?
The hotel has an outdoor geothermal hot tub positioned to face the open sky, which doubles as a premier Northern Lights viewing spot during the autumn and winter months.