Stracta Hotel

Built in 2014, with rows of separate outbuildings housing most of the rooms, the Stracta is a minimalistic property with a touch of Scandinavian style. At first, you'll likely think that it looks like army barracks, but interiors are cozier. The main hotel building is clean, well-maintained, and stylish -- particularly in the common areas -- where natural tones are seen in the tiles, wooden tables, seating, and artwork. The outdoor saunas and hot tubs add to the romantic vibe of the property, as does the outdoor terrace and garden, where guests can sip drinks from the bar while taking in the surrounding views. If you're lucky, you may even spot the Northern Lights directly from the hotel. Given the romance-ready atmosphere of the property, it’s no surprise that couples often stay here. However, because of its proximity to the Northern Lights viewing locations, families and groups also pass through the hotel.

Located off a main road southeast of Reykjavik, the Stracta Hotel is situated along a small river inlet. There’s little in the surrounding area, but it is a convenient spot to explore some of Iceland’s natural wonders, including hot springs and volcanoes. The waterfalls at Skogarfoss are a 50-minute drive, and it takes about an hour to reach Eyjafjallajokull. The main draw in Hella, though, is the Northern Lights, often visible from September through April. There are many vantages in the area for prime viewing. The hotel is a 70-minute drive from downtown Reykjavik, while Keflavik International Airport will take an hour and 45 minutes to reach by car.

The hotel has 122 rooms spread over several buildings, ranging in size from Standard Twin Rooms with shared facilities to Two-Bedroom Apartments. Decor is contemporary and neutral, with light wood floors, furniture, and headboards complemented by framed natural scenes on the walls. There are splashes of color -- vibrant reds, deep blues, or forest greens -- in bed throws and some seating, which has chic Scandinavian silhouettes. Standard features include flat-screen TVs, desks, and free Wi-Fi, and some larger units have private hot tubs and terraces. There are no tea- or coffee-making facilities, though those hot drinks are available for free in the lobby. The surrounding neighborhood is quiet and, given the remote location, there's little noise in rooms. Bathrooms are modern and basic, with sleek vanities and an abundance of light gray tiling. Smaller units have separate shower cubicles or wet-room setups, while the larger self-catering apartments have shower/tub combos. Counter space is limited in some units, and hairdryers are available (on request). Keep in mind that certain rooms share bathrooms, so check ahead if this isn't your cup of tea.

The hotel has a decent amount of features, some of which can be special if you time your visit right (and nature is on your side). The saunas are outdoors, housed in oversized wine barrel-like structures, while the hot tubs are prime spots for seeing the Northern Lights if you're lucky. A restaurant is open throughout the day for lunch and evening meals, and also offers guests a free breakfast each day, with hot items like sausage, bacon, and eggs, as well as continental options. There’s lots of outdoor space here, with a terrace off the lobby bar and a garden, but the hotel is lacking a fitness center. Meeting rooms and event spaces are available, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Staff can assist with organizing tours and tickets. Parking is free.