Stunning contemporary hotel set in the middle of Iceland's dramatic landscape, 45 minutes from Reykjavik. Built on an ancient lava field with views of Þingvellir National Park. Features geothermal spa, Northern Lights bar, and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing nature's beauty.
Ion Adventure Hotel stands on an ancient lava field at Nesjavöllum, approximately 45 kilometres northeast of Reykjavík, adjacent to the Nesjavellir geothermal power station on the southern shore of Lake Þingvallavatn. The property sits within the buffer zone of Þingvellir National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet in a visible rift that runs across the landscape. The surrounding terrain of cracked basalt, moss-covered lava, steam vents from the Hengill volcanic system, and open water creates one of the most dramatic natural settings for an accommodation property anywhere in Iceland.
The hotel was designed by Minarc Architects and opened in 2013 after repurposing an earlier structure on the site. The architecture responds directly to the lava-field landscape: a long, angular building clad in weathered steel and dark panels that appears to grow from the lava rather than sit upon it. Floor-to-ceiling windows extend across the main public spaces and the majority of the 45 guest rooms, framing views of the volcanic terrain, Lake Þingvallavatn, and the open sky above Iceland's notoriously dark interior.
Rooms range from Northern Lights standard rooms to Aurora Suites and the Panorama Suite. All include geothermal-heated floors, locally sourced wool blankets, and dark interior design to minimise light pollution during aurora season. The geothermal outdoor pool is fed by naturally heated water, open year-round, and is arguably the hotel's most memorable experience — particularly during winter evenings when the northern lights arc overhead. An indoor hot tub and cold plunge pool complete the spa facilities.
The restaurant SILFRA — named for the freshwater tectonic fissure dividing the tectonic plates — serves a seasonal Icelandic menu drawing on produce from the surrounding area, with the kitchen adjusting menus according to what is available fresh from Icelandic farms and fisheries. Activities coordinated through the hotel include snorkelling in Silfra fissure, horseback riding, hiking in Þingvellir National Park, fly-fishing in Lake Þingvallavatn, glacier walks on Langjökull, and guided Northern Lights excursions. A rental car is essential; there is no scheduled public transport serving the hotel.
Amenities
- geothermal spa
- Northern Lights viewing
- restaurant
- bar
- nature views
- free parking
Location
Nesjavöllum, 801 Selfoss
64.2033, -21.2617 View on map
Highlights
- Built on an active lava field within the Þingvellir UNESCO World Heritage Site buffer zone — one of Iceland's most dramatic hotel locations
- Year-round geothermal outdoor pool for Northern Lights soaking on clear winter nights — the hotel's defining experience
- SILFRA restaurant serving seasonal Icelandic cuisine named after the famous tectonic fissure between two continental plates
- 45 rooms with geothermal-heated floors, dark interiors, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing the volcanic landscape
- On-site activity coordination including Silfra snorkelling, glacier walks, horseback riding, and Northern Lights excursions
Tips for visiting
- Book a geothermal pool session for after dark in autumn and winter — soaking under the northern lights with steam rising from the volcanic landscape is the hotel's signature experience
- Northern Lights probability is highest September through March; planning around a new moon phase gives the darkest possible skies
- The Silfra snorkelling excursion must be pre-booked through the hotel activity desk — dry suits are provided, but minimum visibility conditions occasionally affect availability
- A rental car is essential; the hotel is approximately 45 minutes from Reykjavík via Route 1 and Route 360, and no scheduled public bus services reach the property
- SILFRA restaurant reservations are recommended even for hotel guests during summer peak season — the menu changes with seasonal availability so early reservation secures the full experience
Accessibility
Ion Adventure Hotel is set on uneven volcanic lava terrain, which presents significant challenges for guests with mobility impairments. The main hotel building has ramp access at the entrance, and lift access is available to guest room floors. The outdoor geothermal pool area involves uneven lava-stone ground. Guests with mobility requirements are strongly advised to contact the hotel before booking to discuss the specific terrain and the accessibility arrangements that can be made.
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Frequently asked questions
How far is Ion Adventure Hotel from Reykjavík?
The hotel is approximately 45 kilometres northeast of central Reykjavík near the Nesjavellir geothermal power station. The drive takes around 45 minutes via Route 1 and Route 360 in good conditions. A rental car or private transfer is essential — no scheduled public bus service reaches the property.
Can visitors use the geothermal spa without staying at the hotel?
The geothermal outdoor pool and spa facilities are primarily reserved for hotel guests. Day visitor access may be possible depending on availability — contact the hotel directly to enquire before visiting. Priority is given to guests staying on the property.
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights from Ion Adventure Hotel?
The Northern Lights are visible from late August through April, with peak probability in September to October and February to March. The hotel's location away from city light pollution, combined with its dark-interior room design and the geothermal outdoor pool, makes it one of Iceland's best-positioned accommodations for aurora viewing.
What activities can be arranged through Ion Adventure Hotel?
The hotel coordinates a wide range of guided activities including snorkelling in Silfra fissure, horseback riding, hiking in Þingvellir National Park, fly-fishing in Lake Þingvallavatn, glacier walks on Langjökull, and guided Northern Lights excursions. Most activities require advance booking through the hotel activity desk.