If you’ve ever wanted to experience the life of a Viking but without the violence and the dangers that come with being a seafaring person, then you’re in luck, as there’s a Viking-inspired hotel in Iceland that gives guests a taste of the Scandinavian life in the Middle Ages. Simply called Hotel Viking, this unique attraction is part of the Viking Village, located in the charming town of Hafnarfjörður, which is about 8 miles south of the country’s capital, Reykjavík (which is one of the destinations you shouldn’t miss on your vacation to Iceland). Not only will you be able to sleep like a Viking at the Village’s hotel, but you’ll also be able to enjoy mead-filled feasts at the accompanying restaurant while taking in the stunning fjord-side views.
While the Hotel Viking offers plenty of historical atmosphere and decor, the rooms are equipped with modern comforts like TVs and WiFi, so you definitely won’t have to endure the elements as the real Vikings did. Another luxury that the hotel has that the Vikings didn’t is a geothermal hot tub, which is perfect to relax in after a day of raiding and pillaging (or just plain old sightseeing). Still, Hotel Viking isn’t too modern — it’s filled with beautiful art from Iceland, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands, and the wooden furniture and wood paneling add to the hotel’s rustic ambiance.
Dining like a Viking
No Viking vacation would be complete without dining like you’ve just decimated an enemy village. The Hotel Viking is accompanied by the Viking Restaurant, called Fjörukráin, which serves up traditional fare like fish soup, lamb shank, shark, and more (although if you want something a little less adventurous, they also serve up burgers, pizza, and salads). And, of course, Fjörukráin has plenty of mead on tap to wash down the delicious food. Finish off your meal with a tasty dessert such as apple pie or skyr (a yogurt-like dairy product) served with sorbet and blueberry sauce.
As if feasting on delectable food in the wonderfully picturesque halls of Fjörukráin weren’t enough, the dining experience is enhanced by live entertainment. Guests in groups of 20 or more can request to be “kidnapped” by Viking performers and taken to a special location (called “The Cave”) where they’ll be treated to mead and serenaded with lively folk songs and stories. The attention to detail is what really elevates one’s time at the restaurant. The staff is decked out in Viking-themed apparel, and the walls are adorned with captivating Nordic artwork. The building was built in 1841, with much of the original architecture preserved, giving the restaurant an extra historic touch.
Breathtaking fjord views
