If you want a luxury hotel in Reykjavik blending modern style with Icelandic soul, the Reykjavik EDITION delivers in every way. Set on the scenic harbor with views of Mt. Esja, this sleek and sustainable hotel is just steps from Harpa Concert Hall in the heart of Iceland’s capital. From the design-forward rooms to the geothermal spa, rooftop bar, and award-worthy dining at Tides, it’s a destination in itself.
As a Bonvoy member, I was thrilled to stay in this 5 star hotel that’s a Marriott property. After flying the new inaugural non-stop flight on Icelandair from Nashville to Reykjavik, I stayed here for two nights while exploring Iceland’s capital city.
My Room with a View
The rooms are sleek and modern with minimalist Icelandic design, but also feel cozy. The best part? My room had a stunning view of the harbor and Mt. Esja. I particularly loved the cool chair on a furry rug in front of the floor to ceiling window. I also liked the simple bench under the TV as a space to put my carry-on. The black and white bathroom is spacious and there’s tons of storage space. I eased into my first morning in Iceland by sipping coffee in bed while watching night turn into day over the harbor. It felt like a scene straight out of a Nordic dream.
Sustainability Meets Sleek Design
What makes the hotel stand out is its commitment to sustainability from the minimalist decor to sourcing local ingredients in the bites and sips throughout the hotel. The Reykjavik EDITION incorporates eco-friendly materials in its construction and harnesses geothermal energy, keeping with Iceland’s deep respect for nature. In the sleek lobby, the vibe is sophisticated yet cozy. I couldn’t help sinking into one of the velvet chairs by the sculptural fireplace and sipping a cocktail in the Lobby Bar. It was the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring Reykjavík upon arrival from my overnight flight on Icelandair. Even as the lobby bar filled with people, I felt miles away sipping a Vanishing Leaf, normally an alcohol-free drink made with clarified basil and cucumber cordial. I added a local gin to make it an Icelandic cocktail.
Dinner at Tides – Like Dining at the Helm
Dining at Tides is a must, whether staying in the hotel or not. It was one of my favorite meals during my 6-day trip. The seafood-forward restaurant is designed like a ship, truly giving the essence of a ship sailing into the flavors of Iceland.
For dinner I decided to do the four course tasting menu so I could sample multiple culinary creations. For a specialty cocktail, the bartender created a Paloma spotlighting the crazy weather of snow and sunshine we had that day. Instead of tequila, it was made with brennivín, the traditional caraway-spiced schnapps nicknamed “Black Death” and traditionally paired with fermented shark, which I tried the next day. He blended the brennivín with a pink grapefruit soda. The cocktail maestro said it was winter and spring in a drink. It truly was!
I started with a stunning locally farmed tomato appetizer featuring tomatoes done three ways including a tomato sorbet. It was phenomenal. The wild wolffish with sea buckthorn, wasabi flower, and cantaloupe was a delicious new fish for me. Since I don’t eat meat, instead of grass-fed Icelandic lamb fillet, I had their incredible cod from the Westfjords. It was beautifully paired with miso, roasted bell pepper, buttermilk, daikon, and carrot. The combination was both delicate and rich – pure Iceland on a plate. Somehow I saved a little room for a few bites of the Basque skyr cheesecake. Skyr has high protein so that makes dessert healthy – right?
Secret Sips in a Speakeasy
After dinner, we headed to Tölt for a nightcap. It’s named after the unique fourth gait of Icelandic horses. The speakeasy-style bar is hidden behind a sleek door off of the Lobby Bar. It’s moody and intimate with a menu of elaborate cocktails. I had to try the Ace of Spades once the waitress said you get to pick two cards with the cocktail. I didn’t look at the cards until after I finished the bold yet crisp gin forward cocktail. I didn’t pick the ace of spades card, but if I had my drink would have been free.
Two Spaces I Wish I Could Have Explored More
There are two spaces in the Reykjavik EDITION I wish I could have spent a little more time in are the spa and rooftop bar. The serene retreat of the spa has a hammam, sauna, and Icelandic-inspired therapies. The rooftop bar, one of only a handful in the city, has sweeping views of Reykjavik and the sea. It’s the perfect place to watch a spring sunset, midnight sun in summer, or the night lights of the city in fall and winter. More time in those two spaces is a must on my next trip to Iceland!
For where to go and what to see in Reykjavik and southern Iceland, check out First-timer’s Guide to Iceland.