18 January, 2016
Some go to Iceland to explore its wilderness and enjoy the country's evocative natural landmarks. Others are increasingly travelling to its capital Reykjavik for great nightlife, a growing food scene and music festivals. For years 101 Hotel has been a leader in terms of boosting the capital's cool factor - its rooms have held celebrities and artists, its futuristic bar has been privy to many wild weekend nights. Its sleek 1960s design, comfortable monochrome rooms and delicious restaurant make it the ideal place to stay in Reykjavik today.
Are comfortable, simply designed and modern. Everything is black and white, bathrooms are spacious and marbled. The beds come with plush linens and a thick duvet for cold winter nights. Windows overlooking the blue-tinted mountains surrounding the city make for otherworldly views, even in the centre of town.
A buffet in the restaurant downstairs. Choose from cereals, fruits, geysir bread and Icelandic cheeses. Don't miss out on the cod liver oil.
The hotel's restaurant, Kitchen & Wine, serves impeccable modern Icelandic dishes. Langoustines drenched in butter are delicious, as is the rack of lamb off the robata grill. Be sure to try some of the snacks with your pre-dinner cocktail - spicy caramel popcorn and fish skin crisps are our favourites.
Yes. It's partly in the restaurant, but the real fun happens off the lobby of the hotel where some of the most interesting people in Iceland - both locals and visitors alike - gather to enjoy their tipple along to the soundtrack of Scandi electro tunes and a roaring fire.
iPod docks, flat screen TVs and Aveda bath products in rooms. There's also a small spa with a gym, steam room and jacuzzi.
If the water smells weird, it's because most of Iceland's water smells weird due to sulphur. There's nothing wrong with the pipes.
Fiskmarkaðurinn, an Icelandic restaurant specialising in fish dishes with an Asian influence. Expect flawless seafood cooked in surprising ways and some exotic ingredients, including minke whale and puffin - both are popular foods in Iceland. Book through Design Hotels here.
