Best Glacier Stays in Hella for Adventurous Travelers
Hella, positioned along the Ring Road in South Iceland, serves as a strategic base for exploring the region's dramatic glacial landscapes. Travelers staying here find themselves well-placed for day trips to Sólheimajökull, a prominent outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull. The accommodations in Hella offer practical amenities like kitchenettes, essential for early starts or late returns from glacier excursions. Many properties provide views of the surrounding volcanic terrain, including Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull, enhancing the sense of being in Iceland's raw nature. With Seljalandsfoss just 36 km away, and Skógafoss also within reach, Hella combines accessibility with proximity to key natural wonders, making it ideal for those focused on active exploration.
Glacier view · Hella in numbers
Stays in Hella
Located directly on the Ring Road, Hella provides a practical starting point for reaching Sólheimajökull, an accessible outlet glacier that is a popular spot for guided walks. The guesthouses in Hella, such as Ugla Gistihús, offer air-conditioned rooms with kitchenettes, allowing guests to prepare their own meals and pack provisions for day trips. This self-sufficiency is crucial when planning excursions to remote glacial areas, ensuring flexibility with meal times. The convenience of free on-site private parking at these properties further simplifies logistics for those traveling by rental car, a necessity for glacier exploration.
The accommodations in Hella are designed to support travelers focused on the region's natural attractions, including its glaciers. Farmer's Guest House, for instance, provides a full kitchen and mountain views from all rooms, offering a comfortable return after a day spent on the ice. While not directly on a glacier, Hella's strategic position means that iconic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss (36 km away) and Skógafoss are easily reachable, often serving as complementary stops on a glacier itinerary. The presence of horses and sheep on some properties adds to the authentic Icelandic countryside experience, connecting visitors to the land.
Hella's guesthouses cater to the practical needs of glacier adventurers, offering amenities that enhance comfort and convenience. Ugla Gistihús includes a sun terrace and garden, providing a relaxing space to unwind while still being close to the main road. The availability of a tour desk at some properties can assist in booking guided glacier tours, simplifying the planning process. With views of volcanoes like Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull, guests are constantly reminded of the powerful geological forces that shape Iceland's glacial landscapes, making Hella an immersive base for exploring these natural wonders.
Hella's personality is defined by its role as a functional hub for South Iceland's outdoor activities, particularly those centered around its glaciers and waterfalls. It is less about bustling city life and more about providing a comfortable, convenient base for exploration. The town offers essential services, including minimarkets and coffee shops, catering to the needs of travelers on the go. Its position offers a quiet retreat after a day of adventure, with the vast Icelandic landscape as a backdrop. This makes Hella particularly appealing to independent travelers and couples who appreciate self-sufficiency and direct access to nature.