These holiday rentals in Iceland are mind-blowingly beautiful
Famous for its otherworldly beauty, spectacular untouched landscapes, endless natural wonders, and, of course, for being one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, Iceland is rightfully top of many a travel bucket list.
There are countless things to do in the Nordic country – both in the summer and winter months – with something to suit every type of traveller. Outdoorsy types will be spoilt for choice between all the hiking, skiing, trekking and icy adventures on offer, nature lovers will enjoy a holiday dedicated to discovering the country's many glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and Arctic animals, while culture vultures are also well catered-for in the capital city of Reykjavík in particular.
What many may not consider, however, is that where you choose to stay in Iceland is an important part of the experience, too. After a hard day's exploring, there's nothing more spoiling than holing up somewhere cosy, comfy and homely for the night, be it in a smart city penthouse, a quiet lake-side retreat or rustic, rural cabin under the stars. There are plenty of excellent hotels in Iceland to choose from, of course, but if authenticity and uniqueness is what you're after, the best spots are undoubtedly to be found on Airbnb.
From glass domes in the forest and cottages flanked by waterfalls, to design-led villas on the outskirts of Reykjavík, these are the most mind-blowing Airbnbs in Iceland to book for your next trip.
Cabin in Ytri-Skeljabrekka, Iceland
This cabin is one of the best-loved Airbnbs in Iceland, and for good reason. Its unique mirrored-glass exterior reflects the surrounding mountain landscape, not only creating countless epic Instagram-worthy photo opportunities but also allowing its guests to feel completely enveloped by nature. Inside, it's sleek and minimal, letting the panoramic views take centre-stage, and there's also an outdoor hot tub for romantic evenings à deux.
Sleeps: 2
Price: From £543 per night
Apartment in Akureyri, Iceland
Travellers who prefer to venture off the beaten track should consider visiting north Iceland, that has all the otherworldly landscapes of the south – if not, more – but without the crowds. This apartment would make a wonderful place to rest your head after a long day of exploring the area, located in a peaceful position just across the fjord from the northern capital city, Akureyri, and with views directly over the bay.
Sleeps: 4
Price: From £130 per night
Villa in Mosfellsbær, Iceland
Located in a quiet town just 15 minutes from central Reykjavik, this stunning villa is a design lover's dream. As the private residence of the family behind Happie Furniture, it boasts supremely stylish interiors as well as everything you could possibly need for a cosy, comfortable getaway – including a sauna and geothermal hot tub. Its proximity to Iceland's capital means all the buzz of the big city is but a short drive away, though it's still far enough away to ensure no light pollution and an epic front-row seat to the Aurora Borealis.
Sleeps: 10
Price: From £782 per night
Cottage in Hvolsvöllur, Iceland
For a magical stay immersed in nature, look no further than this Airbnb located close to the famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall on the south coast of Iceland. Each cottage comes complete with top-of-the-range modern amenities and cosy, rustic-chic interiors, as well as huge windows for uninterrupted views of the spectacular surroundings.
Sleeps: 4
Price: From £239 per night
Cottage in Búðardalur, Iceland
Nestled in thousands of acres of unspoilt nature in the mountains of west Iceland, this charming cottage is secluded and remote as can be. We're talking animals as neighbours, hiking trails on the doorstep, uninterrupted and far-reaching views, and non-existent light pollution, making it the perfect spot for observing the Northern Lights at their most spectacular. The property itself is built in the traditional Icelandic country style, but equipped with heating, hot water and a modern kitchen to ensure a comfy stay, while a 15-minute drive will take you to the closest village to stock up on essentials.
Sleeps: 2
Price: From £180 per night
Penthouse in Reykjavík, Iceland
Live the urban high life in this stylish penthouse Airbnb. Situated a stone's throw from the buzz of central Reykjavík, it boasts Scandi-style interiors, two well-sized bedrooms and bathrooms, a scenic terrace, and underground parking with direct lift access that's a veritable game-changer during the colder months.
Sleeps: 5
Price: From £121 per night
Cabin in Selfoss, Iceland
Guests say that this lake-view cabin is even more stunning in real life than it seems in the photos – and that's really saying something. Located right in the middle of the Golden Circle, it's a prime spot for exploring Iceland's magical natural scenery, including the Great Geysir, Gullfoss Falls and Thingvellir National Park that are all nearby. There are also plenty of hikes in the area as well as fishing and kayaking on the lake, though when the accommodation comes with such stunning views, a crackling fireplace, standalone bath and even a private geothermal pool, you have every reason to stay firmly put, too.
Sleeps: 2
Price: From £516 per night
Dome in Flóahreppur, Iceland
If you've always dreamed of spending the night in a glass dome in the middle of a magical forest, then this is your chance. Buubble Hotel Ölvisholt is a collection of unique bubble-shaped rooms nestled within the scenic Icelandic countryside, and available to rent via Airbnb. Here, you can sleep under the stars, gaze up at the spectacular light shows and feel truly at one with nature thanks to the transparent walls, before falling into a deep and peaceful sleep. Perfect for couples and solo travellers alike.
Sleeps: 2
Price: From £339 per night
Villa in Grímsnes- og Grafningshreppur, Iceland
Treat yourself and a handful of loved ones to a luxurious lakeside stay in the heart of the Golden Circle. This four-bed villa is right on the water, enveloped by trees and looks out towards the mountains beyond, boasting scenic views from every angle courtesy of floor-to-ceiling glass walls. The outdoor deck is the star of the show, however, boasting an infinity hot tub, panoramic sauna, comfy loungers, a BBQ and kayaks in the summer.
Sleeps: 10
Price: From £782 a night
Townhouse in Reykjavík, Iceland
Right on the edge of Reykjavík's city centre, this stylish, spacious townhouse is an ideal spot for families or groups of friends looking to visit the Icelandic capital as well as the surrounding countryside. It's close to town while also boasting the peace and quiet of a suburban neighbourhood, and it's also less than an hour from the must-visit Thingvellir National Park. Inside, it's all light woods, neutral tones and rustic wooden details for extra cosy vibes, while the outdoor hot tub is an added bonus.
Sleeps: 8
Price: From £498 a night
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