2 Best Hotels in Þingvellir, Reykjanes Peninsula and the South Coast (with the Golden Circle)

Clean, green, and emerging from the landscape, the ION Hotel is a striking sight in the primordial surrounds of Nesjavellir, a geothermal area close to Þingvellir National Park. Although it's only 40 minutes away from Reykjavík by car, its location could easily pass for extraterrestrial. Apart from the luxury rooms fitted with mattresses made from organic material and Scandinavian-inspired decor, other highlights include a luxury spa with a large outdoor geothermal hot tub, and the Northern Lights Bar, where double-size windows offer guests unimpeded views of the auroras when they happen.

This classic American-style country hotel guarantees luxury on every account: it's secluded, peaceful, only a 15-minute drive from Selfoss, and 20 km (12 miles) from Þingvellir National Park.