There is nowhere quite like this place on Earth. You could say the same about any destination. And indeed, each location has its own unique charm. However, some places stand out more than others, and Iceland is one such exceptional destination. In a single word, it is extraordinary, boasting a plethora of natural wonders ranging from majestic waterfalls and stunning glaciers to breathtaking landscapes adorned with volcanoes that have left behind enchanting moss-covered lava fields. For the adventurous traveler, the opportunities for exploration in Iceland are unparalleled. Nestled among Iceland’s most captivating natural attractions lies the Hotel Rangá, a perfect luxury retreat to savor it all.
Iceland caters to adventurers of all kinds, offering everything from leisurely coach tours to adrenaline-pumping activities like heli-biking and day-long glacier treks. Hotel Rangá serves as an ideal home base for discovering this spectacular country. Perched on Iceland’s enchanting South Coast, guests can easily access must-visit destinations such as the stunning Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls that dominate Instagram feeds. Glaciers beckon nearby for exploration, while the South Coast’s famous black sand beach provides a striking contrast.
The Enchanting Aurora Borealis
Iceland is a land of extremes, with summers offering endless sunlight thanks to the midnight sun that never sets. From October to April, Iceland transforms into one of the prime spots on the planet to witness the surreal natural spectacle of the aurora borealis. The northern lights are a magical display, with colorful beams of green, and at times purple, red, pink, orange, and blue dancing across the sky like an otherworldly laser show.
“The thrill lies in the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights. Witnessing the sky suddenly ablaze with this spectacular show is truly an awe-inspiring experience – you have to see it to believe it.” ~ Kamil Jablonski, Aurora Borealis Photographer
Numerous spots offer views of the northern lights. Iceland’s sparse population results in minimal light pollution, increasing the chances of catching this breathtaking sight. Tucked away in isolation, Hotel Rangá provides the ideal setting to witness nature’s light spectacle. While others may need to join tours to hunt for the aurora borealis, the hotel ensures a convenient experience where guests can await the lights’ appearance. A unique wake-up call service alerts guests when the lights are visible, allowing them to enjoy the show from their balcony or designated viewing points around the property. For a truly indulgent experience, guests can soak in one of the four geothermally heated hot tubs, providing a warm and cozy vantage point for admiring the spectacle.
Immersive Lodge Experience at Hotel Rangá
Often dubbed a hotel, Hotel Rangá exudes the essence of an Arctic-themed ranch, blending seamlessly with the vast, open fields that stretch endlessly. A short stroll from the property reveals sprawling grazing pastures teeming with sheep, while the meandering Rangá River flows through the landscape. Further afield, majestic Icelandic horses grace the scenery with their elegant presence and picturesque coats – straight out of a fairy tale.
Indoors, the lodge boasts an equally charming ambiance, featuring a rustic design with wood-paneled walls, classic furnishings, and chandeliers crafted from deer antlers. Curiosities abound throughout the property, from Nordic exploration artifacts to a towering 15 ft polar bear, adding a touch of whimsy to the Arctic-inspired décor.
After a day of Icelandic adventures, guests can retreat to the upscale comforts of the lodge. With 51 accommodations offering various configurations and sizes to cater to solo travelers, couples, and families, Hotel Rangá ensures a bespoke experience. The lodge’s seven unique signature suites are themed after destinations ranging from Africa to Antarctica.
The Iceland suite stands out for its retro design and spacious layout, featuring a luxurious lounge area, a hand-painted mural, and a romantically sculpted egg-shaped whirlpool tub. A highlight of the suite is the walk-out balcony offering sweeping views and a constant supply of fresh Icelandic air. Room vistas range from the Hekla volcano to the rolling landscapes and the East Rangá River.
Culinary Delights at Hotel Rangá
The dining experience at Hotel Rangá perfectly complements an Icelandic holiday. Expect authentic Icelandic cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients. The evening commences with cocktails at the lively bar, an excellent opportunity to share travel anecdotes with fellow international guests. The bar boasts a unique design, complete with wooden log construction and quirky chairs shaped like a woman’s legs and skirt, adding to the playful ambiance. The cocktail menu includes selections from their extensive whiskey vault, boasting one of Iceland’s largest collections.
Brave souls can savor the local spirit Brennivín, fondly known as The Black Death among tourists – and with good reason. This potent liquor, with hints of licorice from cumin and caraway, offers a unique taste experience. The tradition at Hotel Rangá involves serving Brennivín in lava stone shot glasses or incorporating it into cocktails. The amiable bartenders are more than happy to guide guests through a tasting session, complete with entertaining reactions.
For dinner, guests can relish well-prepared traditional Nordic dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The glass-enclosed restaurant offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes or starlit skies, creating a captivating dining atmosphere. Noteworthy specialties include wild mushroom soup, scallops, reindeer fillet with fried beetroot, and crowberry sauce.
Exploring Iceland’s Marvels
Iceland serves as a playground for adventurers, and Hotel Rangá provides an excellent starting point to delve into this captivating country. The Golden Circle and the nearby South Coast stand out as two must-experience tours.
Numerous reputable tour operators in Iceland offer exceptional services to explore this remarkable destination. Grayline Iceland, a leading tour company, provides a diverse range of excursions, guided by knowledgeable professionals who offer not just directions but profound insights into Iceland’s history, culture, and scientific wonders.
The Golden Circle tour includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, offering scenic walks through volcanic rock formations, stunning vistas, and a view of Iceland’s largest lake, Þingvallavatn. An exceptional geological feature awaits visitors at the park, where the tectonic plates of two continents converge, allowing guests to wander from Europe to America and back. The mesmerizing Gullfoss Waterfall, with its two cascades and grand scale, is a highlight. Moreover, the Valley of Geysers showcases natural wonders with erupting geysers shooting water high into the air at regular intervals. A sight not to be missed.
The South Coast of Iceland boasts some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes. The iconic Seljalandsfoss waterfall, standing at 200 feet, offers a unique feature allowing visitors to walk behind the cascade and peer out from inside a cave. Further along, the impressive Skogafoss waterfall, also towering at 200 feet, and 80 feet wide, stands as a prominent landmark on the South Coast.
Beyond its captivating waterfalls, the South Coast presents an array of attractions, including glaciers with awe-inspiring ice terrain, lakes, and volcanic ash. The region’s black sand beaches, adorned with black gravel and boulders, offer a striking visual that has graced many a travel Instagram feed or served as a backdrop in films and fashion shoots.
Describing a destination as a bucket list item has become somewhat cliché, yet in the case of Iceland, the sentiment holds true. Iceland is a must-see place that captivates visitors with its unique allure. A visit during the fall to spring period offers an ideal opportunity to witness the northern lights. A stay at Hotel Rangá ensures a memorable Icelandic experience, serving as the perfect base to savor all that this mesmerizing country has to offer.
