Luna Hotel Apartments

A family-run operation consisting of three properties, Luna is based in a neat, compact office diagonally across from one of its properties. A few shelves hold multiple awards and distinctions, and a puffin gives the place a touch of whimsy. Guests pull up a seat -- either teal blue folding chairs or Eames molded ones -- to check in here during business hours before being directed or brought to their home away from home. The staff takes this opportunity to offer the lowdown on Reykjavik, from dining tips to suggestions for excursions. (Staff are not on-site around the clock.) The clean look and minimalist lines of the office are reflected in many of Luna’s apartments, which draw mostly couples and families. As the apartments are self-catering, there are no common spaces or on-site services to speak of, a setup that works best for the truly independent traveler.

Luna’s three apartment buildings are on safe, quiet residential streets within blocks of the boutiques, cafes, bars, and restaurants of pedestrian-only Laugavegur Street, Reykjavik's main shopping artery. Groceries are also close by. Depending on the apartment building, it’s a three- to 10-minute walk to Hallgrimskirkja church, about 15 minutes to the National Museum of Iceland, and 14 to 20 minutes to the Sun Voyager Sculpture on the waterfront. The stunning Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall, which has harbor views and puts on live events throughout the year, is seven to 15 minutes away on foot. Iceland's famous Blue Lagoon is a 45-minute drive outside of Reykjavik, while Landmannalaugar's highlands are nearly three hours away by car. Keflavik International Airport is a 45-minute drive from the hotel.

All of Luna’s 19 apartments are bright, modern, and comfortable, with full kitchens or kitchenettes. They range from studios, which can be quite snug for more than one person, to large one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments. Some units have balconies, and one penthouse suite has a large terrace. Decorated with care, the apartments have several sophisticated, fashionable details such as a white ceramic antelope head on a pale gray wall, artfully distressed wood floors, or a lone grouping of wall-mounted blue ceramic plates. Kitchens are thoughtfully turned out, with essentials and everything guests need to make coffee and tea. Smaller units have mini-fridges, microwaves, electric stovetops, kettles, coffeemakers, and toasters; larger units have full-size refrigerators as well as ovens, and some come with dishwashers and laundry facilities. Beds have bright white linens, while pillows, lamps, or other thoughtful design elements add a splash of color. Most bathrooms are done in white tile and white ceramic with stainless steel fixtures; some have walk-in showers, and some larger apartments have full tubs and more than one bathroom. All have 42- to  47-inch flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and clock radios; some are equipped with iPod docks. Note that none of the locations has an elevator.

Given that these apartments are just that, the hotel has no facilities to speak of. Some do have free parking, while in others guests have to find street parking. The staff can arrange day trips and excursions (including pickup and drop-off at the apartment). Airport shuttle service can be arranged for a fee.