ALDA HOTEL

Discover the Northern lights from Hotel Alda's Jacuzzi

Stepping inside from the silent sound of snow into the warmth and welcoming Alda Hotel in Reykjavik was, as the Nordic people would say, Hygge. Situated on Laugavegur, Reykjavik's main artery, Alda prides itself on offering a tranquil refuge in the heart of the town, a base to return to after outdoor adventures in this incredible, breathtaking island in the North Atlantic.

Words by Leigh Maynard

Iceland is home to a community of artists, sportspeople, adventurers and storytellers whose island surroundings have shaped their resilience and creativity. It is also for the wanderers, explorers, and thrill-seekers who travel here in wonder, ready to discover the island's raw volcanic terrain and snow-covered landscapes, as well as those who journey in search of the elusive Northern Lights. 

King Suite

Whether you are in Iceland to climb a glacier or to wander the city and discover its rich cultural history, Alda Hotel has something for everyone. Situated on the main shopping street with its outdoor shops, close by, you can discover the stunning Hallgrímskirkja church, the Reykjavik Art Museum and Sundhöl Reykjavikur swimming pool. Built in 2014, the hotel features 90 rooms, ranging from single to suite accommodations, as well as a fitness area, a Finnish sauna, an outdoor Jacuzzi to gaze upon the stars, and for those hoping to see more, rooms with balconies offer the opportunity to see the Northern Lights from the comfort of your room. And finally, the hotel even has a unisex barber shop. The 24-hour reception means you can find help booking excursions and discover all the best places to visit at any hour, and Astrós and the attentive team, with their warm Icelandic welcome, have you covered for every eventuality.

And then for the room. Astrós told me that a previous guest once said my suite felt like a warm hug, and as I opened the door, I was enveloped by it. In the lofty heights of the top floor, I felt like I had my very own apartment, complete with a high, white-washed wooden ceiling, a spacious lounge area filled with furniture in simple Nordic minimalism, accented by glass and modern artworks, and tempered by cosy rugs. 

The team very kindly left me with a huge platter of fresh fruit and Icelandic chocolate for some healthy, or naughty treats, depending on the mood. Through the window, as the snowflakes settled, the sizable bathroom looked enticing, with a heated floor, along with a bathrobe, slippers and a varied array of toiletries to use in the rain shower or bath, to soak up some warmth after a long day in the wilds. True to form, Alda has considered the little things, with a vanity kit, sleep mask and earplugs, and then to the bigger things, the bed, large enough to stretch out comfortably to ensure you rest well and are ready for the next adventure.

Downstairs at the Brass Kitchen and Bar, breakfast is served daily for guests, featuring a waffle station as the highlight. The restaurant is open to the public throughout the day, featuring tasty food and a good selection of domestic beers, a cosy place to catch up, filled with the sound of animated conversation. A 24-hour convenience store is also on-site, allowing you to stock up on snacks for excursions.

 And finally, for the ultimate convenience, Alda Hotel offers an Android-operated smartphone with 4G data and local calls included as well as helpful apps to ensure guests maximise their stay. 

With the accommodating team and that cosy, yet spacious, room at my disposal, my time at Alda Hotel didn't just feel like a stay; it truly offered a sense of home from home. With the island's spectacular wildlife and scenery, as well as its warm people with generous spirits and captivating stories, Iceland left me eager to return. And when I do, and it will be soon, it will be for another warm hug in the lofty heights of Alda Hotel.

Hotel Alda is situated on Rejkavik's main street Laugavegur