Hotel Rangá
By the Destination Traveller editors · 30 October 2026
Hella, South Iceland
Hotel Rangá is a warm, log-built country hotel on the banks of the East Rangá river in South Iceland, famous for its aurora wake-up calls, its own observatory with an astronomer, and outdoor hot tubs under the stars. It is the perfect first stop on the Ring Road, an hour and a half from Reykjavík.
Best for: Couples and friends who want comfort and the best chance of the northern lights in South Iceland.
Where it is
The hotel stands in open countryside near Hella, about 90 minutes from Reykjavík and two hours from Keflavík airport, with views of the Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla volcanoes on clear days. Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss and the black beaches of Vík are an easy drive. See our Iceland's Ring Road trip.
Rooms and suites
Rooms range from compact standards with mountain views to Deluxe rooms with hand-painted murals, Deluxe Superior rooms facing the river, and Junior Suites. The Master Suites are each themed on a different continent, with furnishings and art from that part of the world.
Food, spa and the rest
Rangá Restaurant serves modern Nordic cooking with local lamb, fish and produce, and a 24-hour bar menu. Outside, geothermally heated hot tubs face the river. On clear nights, a local astronomer guides guests through the sky in the on-site observatory, and the night staff will call your room if the aurora appears. The hotel switches off its external lights to keep the sky dark.
The moment
The phone ringing at midnight with the words 'the lights are out', and stepping into the hot tub as the sky turns green.
Why we chose it
Hotel Rangá combines comfort, good food and genuine expertise in the night sky, in a perfect position for the south coast. Its owner's hospitality shows in every detail, and the wake-up call means you never miss the show.
When to go
September to March for the northern lights; June to August for the midnight sun and easy Ring Road driving. September offers both long days and the first auroras.
The longer stay
Two nights here lets you see the south coast waterfalls and Vík, with two chances at clear skies, before continuing east to the glacier lagoon.
Part of our Big Trip
Iceland's Ring Road
From about £4,500 per person
Questions
What is the aurora wake-up call?
Ask reception and staff will call your room if the northern lights appear during the night.
Does the hotel have an observatory?
Yes, with a local astronomer leading sessions on clear nights.
How far is it from Reykjavík?
About 90 minutes by car; two hours from Keflavík airport.
Are there hot tubs?
Yes, geothermally heated outdoor hot tubs.
Is it a good Ring Road base?
Yes, it is ideally placed for the south coast waterfalls and Vík.
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