The Vibe
Located in a building that formerly housed a high-end department store in the early 20th century, history and style are steeped into every corner of the Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel. Lush velvet and leather furniture, vintage-inspired decor and old photographs of the Consulat family that originally opened the department store (and inspired the hotel’s name) add refined character to this hotel. It’s part of the Hilton’s Curio Collection of boutique properties that each retain their own personality.
The Room
The upscale vibe of the Konsulat continues into its 50 guest rooms and suites. There is tufted leather abound (headboard, desk chair, sofa), complemented by a mid-century modern aesthetic and historic photos hanging on the walls. Standard rooms have a standing shower complemented by an abundance of marble and gold fixtures. Blackout curtains come in handy for the long stretches of daylight when you’re visiting in the summer. A mini-fridge, flat screen TV and desk complete the room’s amenities.
The Features
As in most hotels in Iceland, breakfast is included with your stay and takes no shortcuts. Expect a buffet of cold cuts and traditional cured fish (smoked salmon and herring) along with pastries and a few hot items (eggs, sausages). There is a fitness centre located in the basement, but we’d recommend spending your leisure time in traditional Icelandic fashion — steeping sore muscles in the hot pool of the hotel’s bathhouse. The Konsulat’s lobby bar offers much-needed refreshment (in the form of fancy cocktails) afterwards.
The Location
Reykjavik is a small and walkable city from pretty much anywhere, but the Konsulat’s location in the city’s oldest quarter adds some additional character and charm. You’re within walking distance from all the big attractions: the architectural Harpa Concert Hall, Hallgrímskirkja Church and the Laugavegur pedestrian walking street.
Rooms start from $400 per night
Hafnarstræti 17-19 101 Reykjavík, Iceland, reykjavikkonsulathotel.is
