It is somewhat of a trend—hotels that also include hostels, which provide guests a more unique travel experience, where everyone can swap travel tips at the end of the day in a really nice bar. Hotel pro Klaus Ortlieb, (he has worked at Claridge’s, the Mercer Hotel and Chateau Marmont), recently opened Hlemmur Square in one of Reykjavik’s only Art Deco buildings. Formerly a natural history museum, Hlemmur Square is conveniently located on Reykjavik’s famous Laugavegur Street, but far enough from the raucous night life to guarantee a good night’s sleep.
How does it work? Guests who want private rooms with a view can check into one of the hotel’s 18 luxury rooms on the 5th floor where modernist design rules. Here guests are pampered with super comfy king sized beds (covered in Irish linens), a mini bar stocked with local treats, private car rental, and secretarial services.
If members of your group want something cheaper, the 3rd and 4th floor house an upscale hostel where accommodations are shared (although you can book an entire room), but style is still emphasized. Hlemmur Square’s hostel rooms feature freshly made beds, large lockers and lots of freebies such as toiletries, Wi-Fi, and international calls.
The public areas of the hotel/hostel are meant for mingling. The lobby and library are a great place to relax and chat. The bar features 13 craft beers from Iceland and the Pulsa restaurant focuses on bistro food made from local ingredients. Salmon and beef burgers, as well as many types of sausages, are favorites.
The best part of this hotel/hostel may just be the service. All guests are guaranteed a warm welcome from their international staff. And the incredibly knowledgeable and helpful concierge is eager to book all types of adventures that range from a mellow visit to the Blue Lagoon to a more rugged hiking trip.
