Fly-Drive Short Break at Hotel Ranga

As if plucked from a stylish European alpine village, dropped onto a remote patch of rock in the Atlantic and blended seamlessly into the rugged Icelandic countryside, Hotel Ranga is a beautiful accompaniment to its stunning volcanic surroundings – and as one of only a few four-star accommodations outside of Reykjavik, rest assured its charm extends to its interior too.

The hotel’s remote location is one of its biggest credits – set off to explore picturesque South Iceland and the multitude of geothermal natural phenomena that lie within driving distance, while using the Ranga as a base. Return after the day’s activities for romantic evenings at the superb restaurant and relax in a private, open air hot tub as you watch for the ethereal dancing ribbons of the northern lights.

The pine panelled floors and walls are smart and inviting, warm fires and chandeliers banish the cooler weather outside and the staff are welcoming – you’re even greeted in reception by a giant stuffed polar bear. The 51 rooms are decked out with comfortable modern furnishings and range in size and lavishness, so there’s always something to suit individual tastes. 

Tour Itinerary

DAY 1

FLY TO REYKJAVIK

Arrive at Keflavik International Airport, collect your hire car and drive to Hotel Ranga. On arrival check in for a four nights stay. Around a two hour drive from the airport, the remote log cabin-style retreat can be found just off Iceland’s famous circular ring road, Route 1, between the towns of Hella and Hvolsvollur. After a day travelling, why not relax in one of the hotel’s natural outdoor hot tubs, where in the winter months the northern lights are often seen dancing overhead.

Accommodation

Hotel Ranga

• Hotel Description

DAY 2

SOUTH ICELAND

Free day to explore at leisure. Perhaps head out to discover the incredible natural wonders of the Golden Circle including Gullfoss waterfall, Thingvellir National Park and the bubbling hot springs at Geysir. Active Mt Hekla and the glacial rivers of Thorsmork nature reserve are also within an hour’s drive of the hotel. Located on the banks of the famous salmon river Eystri-Ranga, the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant serves wonderful locally-caught fish and seasonal dishes inspired by modern Nordic cuisine. After dinner perhaps relax at the bar with a local Icelandic beer, or between September and March, head outside in search of the aurora borealis in the dark winter sky. (B)

Accommodation

Hotel Ranga

• Hotel Description

DAY 3

SOUTH ICELAND

Free day to explore at leisure. With the Ranga located within easy driving distance of the highlights of the south coast, perhaps consider driving to Iceland’s southernmost village Vik, where the black sand beaches make for dramatic coastal views. En route, be sure to stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where it’s possible to walk behind the gushing torrent of water. In the summer months, the high cliffs of Dyrholaey are a must-see, with thousands of puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and gannets in residence. (B)

Accommodation

Hotel Ranga

• Hotel Description

DAY 4

SOUTH ICELAND

Free day to explore at leisure. Enjoy a laid-back day relaxing in the serenity of the surrounding area, or for those who prefer a busy day of exploring, the incredible floating icebergs of Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon and the mountainous landscape of Skaftafell National Park can be reached within around 3 hours drive of the hotel. (B)

Accommodation

Hotel Ranga

• Hotel Description

DAY 5

FLY TO THE UK

Check out and drive back to the airport for the return flight to the UK. The inviting geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, known for their rejuvenating qualities, make a wonderful stop en route for those taking the later flight. (B)