What is it that the traveller really needs? Spending a few nights in places such as in a good old cosy tent in Þorsmörk after 20 kilometre hike from Skógar, or on a couch at a friend’s place next to the City hall – and three snoring Frenchmen on the other side of the room I came to consider the essence of a good place to stay at when exploring Iceland. Hotels in Iceland usually force the customer to choose between the quality of the mattress and the site of it—few quality hotels are available in the centre of downtown, and those with such a location demand a premium.
Located on the main street, Laugavegur, Hotel Frón is a three-star hotel situated in a block of colourful Reykjavík houses. In four floors there are about 60 rooms and apartments from single rooms to a penthouse studio. All rooms have kitchen facilities, which makes the visit easier on the budget and more comfortable. There are also little extras: Plasma televisions, internet connections, laptops for rental, mini bars, a restaurant with a terrace downstairs, the continental breakfast (not included in the price). Prices and booking, (typically around 9000 ISK for a single, 14900 for a suite), can be found in the web, with links to airport, car rental, weather conditions and what on –listings in Reykjavik. The hotel is fully booked during the summer months, but with enough advance notice you can find room.
As its reputation, especially among travelling Scandinavians, has increased, the size of Frón has expanded. Originally a blue backyard building around the corner from the main street, it has slowly conquered the whole block nearly. And the next direction is up, with an additional floor that they’ve got in plans.
All in all, Hotel Frón has the best location, best price, and best comfort for the active middle range traveller.
Hotel Frón, Laugavegur 22A, 101 Reykjavik. Phone 511-4666, for more information and bookings www.hotelfron.is info@hotelfron.is