A Surge in Hospitality: New Accommodations Set to Transform Akureyri
Travelers seeking a place to rest in Akureyri and its surroundings will soon have a wealth of new options. This spring, the local hospitality scene received exciting news with the announcement of two new hotels in Akureyri, complemented by a third set to open in Grenivík—a mere half-hour drive from the heart of the city. The uptick in direct flights to North Iceland throughout the year—both scheduled and chartered—reflects a growing demand for hotel rooms and an influx of visitors to Iceland as a whole.
Forest Lagoon Hotel
One of the most anticipated projects is a brand-new hotel, currently underway next to the Forest Lagoon just outside Akureyri. This 120-room establishment will feature a restaurant and a conference hall, while providing easy access to the lagoon that has garnered praise from both locals and tourists. Guests can look forward to the hotel’s grand opening at the close of 2027, coinciding with an expansion of the lagoon to enhance the guest experience.
Höfði Lodge – Viking Heli Skiing
In Grenivík, the owners of Viking Heliskiing are bringing the Höfði Lodge to life, with plans to open its doors in 2026. This luxurious retreat will span 5,500 square meters and house 40 upscale rooms, including four suites. Alongside a restaurant, spa, and wellness center, the lodge will have inviting lounge areas, a bar, and multiple meeting rooms.
Emphasizing adventure and recreational tourism, guests at Höfði Lodge will have access to an array of activities, including heliskiing, ski touring, mountaineering, biking, snowmobiling, hiking, whale watching, and even hunting and fly-fishing. Set on a stunning 50-meter-high cliff, the lodge promises breathtaking views of the ocean and the dramatic landscapes of the Troll Peninsula and Látraströnd.
Expansion of Hotel Akureyri
Meanwhile, Hotel Akureyri has recently completed an extension, adding new accommodations to showcase a total of 140 rooms. The upgraded facility also features a fresh reception area and a café bar, enhancing the overall guest experience.
Hótel Skáld – Curio Collection by Hilton
Rounding out these developments, Bohemian Hotels ehf. is set to launch Hótel Skáld, a member of Hilton’s Curio Collection, in the summer of 2026. Inspired by Icelandic poetry, Hótel Skáld, meaning “poet” in Icelandic, will offer 70 rooms in central Akureyri. This will mark the first Hilton hotel outside of Reykjavík, aiming to provide a unique atmosphere through distinctive architecture, exceptional dining options, and curated experiences.
As these new accommodations take shape, Akureyri stands on the brink of a hotel renaissance, ready to welcome an even greater number of travelers to the enchanting North.
