Reykjavík, Iceland

101 Hotel

The Nordics • Stay • 101 Hotel in Reykjavík, Iceland

What’s the hotel in a nutshell?

101 Hotel, named after its downtown postal code, is located in an austere 1930s concrete building a hop and a skip from Reykjavík’s harbour. The city’s first boutique hotel, founded by entrepreneur and interior designer Ingibjörg S. Pálmadóttir, still holds its own with its minimalist, monochrome decor that easily could be mistaken for that of a sleek art gallery.

What are the rooms like?

Flaunting a paired-down black and white look, 101 Hotel might at first glance feel a bit Patrick Bateman-esque with its mixture of stark colour palette, straight lines and glossy textures. But upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that every single detail, from the fine Italian linens and state of the art entertainment system to the rain showers and plush robes and slippers, is carefully thought out. The hotel has 38 rooms in total, including six suites, that epitomize Nordic cool.

Affiliate link (what is it?)

What else?

As one of the hottest spots on the city’s restaurant and nightlife scene, and the prefered stay for many of the artists performing in the futuristic Harpa concert hall, 101 Hotel is one to count on. The hotel’s public areas – a comfy lounge, a trendy bar and a casual and airy restaurant – showcase a curated collection of art pieces by some of Iceland’s most interesting contemporary artists. There is also a modest basement gym, a steam room and a jacuzzi.

What’s the neighbourhood like?

Miðborg, known as Reykjavík 101 after the postal code of this area, is the heart and soul of the city. It is full of music, art and great food. As one of Reykjavík’s most popular neighbourhoods, its residents are given a special name. Nicknamed Miðbæjarrotta, Icelandic for ‘downtown rat’, the artists, creatives and bohemians who live in the area wear the epithet with pride. Some of the highlights of this area include the striking Hallgrimskirkja Church, the National Museum of Iceland, Nauthólsvík Beach, the Volcano House and Harpa Concert Hall.

Affiliate link (what is it?)