The Reykjavík EDITION
Edition No.
14
Reykjavík, Iceland
On the edge of the world's northernmost capital, named Reykjavik or "smoky bay" for the steam that rises mysteriously from the earth, stands a hotel that reimagines luxury for Iceland. The Reykjavík EDITION, perched along the historic harbor waterfront, emerged in 2021 as the capital's first five-star hotel. An unexpected addition to a city known for its raw, untamed spirit, the Reykjavík EDITION feels both fresh and authentically Icelandic.
This sleek, ebony structure draped in shou sugi ban timber embodies the sophisticated edge of modern Reykjavík while honoring Iceland's elemental character. Like the country itself, the hotel is a study in contrasts: cutting-edge design meets ancient volcanic stone and international luxury dialogues with Nordic simplicity. As you cross the threshold, the lobby's sculptural lava stone totem welcomes you, while a subtle aurora borealis projection dances across the wall, infusing your stay with the natural wonders that make Iceland so dazzling.
At a Glance
The moment you enter your room at The Reykjavík EDITION, you are instinctively drawn to the magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows that transform the harbor, Mount Esja and Snæfellsjökull Glacier into living art—a canvas that stretches toward the volcanic highlands and shifts dramatically with the seasons, from the midnight sun's 21 hours of daylight to winter's ethereal blue hours.
Each accommodation embraces Nordic design principles where functionality meets understated luxury. Clean lines, laminate floors, and tailored furnishings in warm ash wood and pale gray oak create a canvas of calm. Hand-crafted, multicolored wool throws from Ístex add vibrant touches, their rainbow hues a nod to Iceland's animated spirit.
At The Reykjavík EDITION, culinary experiences traverse the spectrum from casual café moments to refined gastronomy. The crown jewel is Tides, the hotel's signature restaurant bathed in natural light and a MICHELIN Guide Recommended Experience.
The menu reads like a love letter to Iceland, featuring Arctic char from glacial rivers hovering at 33-35°F, delicate salmon tataki cured in foraged Arctic thyme, lobster ravioli with North Atlantic lemon butter, and line-caught cod from the remote Westfjords—where Icelandic settlers first cast their nets over 1,000 years ago.
For more casual moments, Tides Café offers artisanal coffees alongside freshly baked pastries and hearty sandwiches.
As evening approaches, discover Tölt—named after the unique fifth gait of Icelandic horses—a cozy wood-paneled retreat offering signature cocktails infused with local spirits including Brennivín, Iceland's traditional caraway-spiced spirit.
The Reykjavík EDITION serves as a gallery where Iceland's raw beauty finds expression through the country's most celebrated artists. The visual journey begins dramatically in the lobby, where the towering lava stone totem rises as a sculptural homage to Iceland's volcanic identity.
Masters Pall Stefansson and Ragnar Axelsson's black-and-white photographs capture both untamed landscapes and weathered faces, offering intimate glimpses into Iceland's soul. Throughout the spaces, ceramics by artist Guðbjörg Káradóttir introduce organic forms inspired by the island's geological formations.
Most captivating is the subtle aurora borealis projection that dances across a lobby wall. The hues of green and purple undulate in hypnotic patterns, offering a controlled glimpse of Iceland's most famous natural spectacle.
The spa transforms Iceland's natural healing traditions into contemporary wellness experiences that honor the country's unique relationship with geothermal power. The highlight is the thermal circuit, featuring a hammam, steam room, sauna, and the signature Icelandic thermal plunge pool.
The "Vikingur" massage, crafted for the Viking within. This muscle relieving body massage includes warm salt stones to focus on areas of concern, vitamin-packed smoothie, and expert therapeutic care.
In a nation where renewable energy is fundamental to daily life, The Reykjavík EDITION embraces Iceland's pioneering environmental ethos. Like many buildings in Reykjavík, the hotel taps into Iceland's extensive geothermal grid—where 90% of homes are heated by underground volcanic activity, making it one of the world's most sustainable energy systems. This commitment to sustainability extends from the building's design, featuring the distinctive charred timber façade that withstands Iceland's harsh elements.
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The hotel's rooftop terrace offers a privileged vantage point for witnessing the northern lights as they dance across the sky. The hotel even offers a special aurora wake-up call service. Simply request to be notified should these ethereal lights appear during the night, and you'll be awakened for a spectacle that many travelers journey thousands of miles to witness.
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