This small Icelandic town may have a diminutive population, but its proximity to the Golden Circle and Route 1(the island’s only main road which runs in a ring) ensures it’s well-frequented and an ideal setting from which to conduct your arctic adventures. The area surrounding it served as the backdrop for the legendary 13th-century Njál’s saga; as such, the town now has a Saga Centre dedicated to this important tale and other famous Icelandic sagas, integral to its history and culture. Stórólfshvolskirkja, the church is well worth a visit too, with its painting by renowned local artist Þórarin B. Þorláksson.
UMI Hotel
One of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Iceland is the backdrop to the UMI hotel. The hotel presents bare-foot luxury at its best and is rooted with a deep connection to nature that flows throughout the design, décor and overall experience of the hotel with only 28 simple yet stylish rooms, offering mountain or ocean views, guests will never feel over-crowded. Stunning vistas can also be enjoyed from the hotel’s top-class restaurant which serves Nordic and Icelandic cuisine with a Japanese twist in a warm and welcoming atmosphere and the lounge and bar is the ideal spot to take in panoramas of Eyjafjallajökull, the famous subglacial volcano. For guests wishing to enjoy more than the beautiful views, many action-packed activities such as glacier hikes, kayaking and ice-cave adventures can easily be arranged by the team at the hotel. For those who love nature and adventure, this is the hotel for you!