Highlights
- Central location in Reykjavik.
- Playful and humorous atmosphere.
- Apartment style rooms.
- Tasty local cafe attached.
Background
Kvosin Downtown Hotel was recently opened in 2013 after undergoing massive renovations tailored to fit the modern traveler. The building itself dates back to 1900, though you wouldn’t know it from the sleek contemporary design. Great care has been taken is every aspect of the renovation and it shows, no detail has been overlooked. The simple minimalist architecture of the building is beautifully detailed and punctuated with trendy geometric patterns and textures in both the hotel’s rooms and common spaces. Altogether the hotel is chic and a perfect spot to set up as a home base while exploring Iceland.
Experience
The Kvosin Downtown Hotel is a small boutique hotel with 24 rooms and apartments which range from Big Room to Biggest Room. There is also The Mountain Suite which was inspired by Game of Thrones star and native Icelander Hafþór Björnsson. The suite is enormous with two large balconies, two bedrooms, separate dining and living spaces as well as a kitchenette with a fridge for a home-cooked meal while you’re abroad.
I stayed in the Bigger Room which felt more like a studio apartment than a hotel room. It even had a deluxe sofa bed in case your friends need to crash for the night. I really enjoyed the light and relaxed feel of the room with bright swatches of color and tons of natural light.
While the rooms vary in size, each are cleverly planned to accommodate a kitchenette, separate dining area and sitting area which makes each room feel welcoming and lived in. There is also free wireless internet in every room, a Nespresso machine, Samsung Smart TV, Tivoli audio system and a complimentary breakfast at Bergsson Mathús which is just around the corner from the hotel.
What really stood out were the humorous signs and notes posted around the hotel. They were very unique and a special sense of humor that really put a smile on my face.
Walking around the corner to the café every morning was a refreshing way to start the day and see a little daily life in Reykjavik. It seems to be one of the favorite spots for locals and tourists alike; everything on the plate was homemade down to the fresh yogurt and sourdough toast. The menu at Bergsson Mathús was full of tasty options which were also healthy which always makes traveling a little easier; there’s only so much grease the body can handle. They also have a decent wine list for an afternoon drink with a view of the lake.
Another great spot to meet up and share a few beverages with new friends is The Klaustur Bar which only serves the best wines, beers, cocktails, and local brews. The atmosphere was casual with a retro feel. It’s a great place to meet fellow travelers with picnic bench seating, plush thrown pillows and funky light fixtures.
One of the main attractions of Iceland is the fantastic landscape which is constantly changing. There are tons of tours to explore the island nation which can be arranged by the hotel’s tour desk. Some of the favorites are day trips to the Golden Circle where sightseers can watch the world famous geysers, the Blue Lagoon hot spring and jeep adventures to the active volcano in the center of the country.
The staff at the Kvosin Downtown Hotel was more than helpful; the 24 hour service was fantastic and all of my requests were addressed quickly and with a smile. Not only did they make me feel at home but they also offered numerous suggestions for sightseeing to make sure I got the full Icelandic experience.
The Kvosin Downtown Hotel is a charming boutique hotel with a real sense of humor. In a great location and managed my a professional staff, the hotel is sure to please its guests. I highly recommend this hotel to anyone exploring Reykjavik.
Contact
Kvosin Downtown Hotel
Address: Kirkjutorg 4, 101, Reykjavik, Iceland
Telephone: (354) 5714460
Website: http://www.kvosinhotel.com/
Email: desk@kvosinhotel.is