North Star Cottage

The view from the mountainside behind our cabin was amazing, and we also hiked over to the very nearby Seljavallalaug swimming pool. We loved our stay. The kitchenette had a hot plate, toaster, microwave, plates, cups, and utensils for four, which was perfect for us. The shower’s hot water came and went, but I guess that’s part of the experience. One thing to know: check-in after 9pm isn’t allowed. We knew about the cutoff and got there at 8:30pm, so it was fine, but the key was just in a lockbox by the door. It didn’t look electronic, so I’d guess someone has to remove the key or change the code manually at 9. I don’t see why they can’t allow later check-ins, but just be aware of the deadline.

The room was clean and roomy, and they even came by after the first night to tidy up and leave fresh linens, which I hadn’t expected. We stayed a couple of nights in mid August 2023. The spot is close to hiking and waterfalls, with plenty of restaurants around too. I’d read some poor reviews, but we were looking for something campy and weren’t too picky. Still, the stay turned out great. They sent the lockbox code the day before, so getting in was easy, and there weren’t any outdoor smells or bugs, which you might expect from a remote cabin.

We were four adults and stayed for one night. It’s a nice little cabin at the foot of a snow covered mountain, with great scenery and most of the basic utilities. Getting the cabin number and access code was a real struggle, though. They wouldn’t answer emails, and calling was difficult for us since we’re from Canada. There’s a landline in a white barn like building, and you can go inside and make the call. I wish they’d sent clear instructions ahead of time, and then I’d have given a better review.

I wouldn’t recommend booking with North Star Cottage. The booking confirmation through Travelocity said the cottages were self service and that an access code would be sent 24 hours before check-in, but that email never arrived. I called and emailed the number and address listed in the confirmation, and got no answer or reply. Fortunately, Travelocity customer service was amazing and found me another hotel at no cost. This area of Iceland is remote, so it could easily have left me having to sleep in my rental car.