Introduction
Some places turn it on in summer.
Then there’s Flúðir, where time goes all stretchy, the sun refuses to clock out, and your romantic/insomnia-led instincts suddenly think they’re starring in a music video – and, not the kind where Bieber is bathing in the wrong spots.
It’s tucked away enough to feel like you’ve discovered something exclusive, but central enough that you’re not eating dehydrated noodles in the back of a campervan trying to figure out if that trail leads to a waterfall or an angry goose.
Welcome to your Icelandic summer escape at The Hill Hotel. In summer, we aim to ensure it’s a place where the wine flows, the light glows, and yes, even your pasty legs get their moment under the midnight sun (with sun cream, obviously).
The Magic of Icelandic Summer
24 hours of daylight: What it’s like and why couples love it
Imagine the sun being that friend at a party who just won’t leave.
Except for once, they’re charming, glow up nicely, and don’t spill beer on your carpet (the latter is almost impossible to imagine if you’re from my home town!)
From mid-May to early August, Iceland hits pause on darkness and goes full main character mode, 24/7.
Which means you can soak in a hot spring at 1am, question your life choices, and still locate your towel without using your phone torch.
Romance under the midnight sun is less candlelit dinner, more, “shall we hike up that oddly bright mountain for no reason other than it looks nice and now I’m confused exactly when bedtime is?”
Whether you’re sipping wine pretending you’re in an ad for Nordic life insurance, or trudging through a valley wondering if that moss is edible (don’t), it all just works.
It’s golden hour on a loop, and you’re the accidental influencers who stumbled into the world’s best lighting setup.
Long days = more time for memory-making
This isn’t just some whimsical daylight nonsense to put on a travel brochure.
With the absence of night throughout the summer, you can squeeze in double the sightseeing and still have time to pretend you’re not tired.
One minute you’re walking around Þingvellir National Park, the next you’re staring at a sky that refuses to get dark, wondering if it’s still Tuesday.
Stargazing? Not unless you count squinting at seagulls.
But what you lose in Northern Lights and constellations, you gain in extra hours of doing fun couple activities: impromptu picnics, pristine blue sky photoshoots, and arguing about directions in full daylight where there’s no hiding the passive aggressive looks.
And at the Hill Hotel? It’s where those “remember when…” stories start, which are the ones we regularly love to hear about.
Usually right after a third glass of wine and someone gets overly confident about hiking distances.
Why Flúðir Should Be Your Summer Hideaway
Off the beaten path, but close to everywhere
Flúðir is one of those places that still feels like a secret, even though it’s been casually name-dropped by every well-travelled couple who’ve gone of the traditional Golden Circle beaten path.
It’s tucked neatly just south of the highlands, a very manageable 90-minute drive from Reykjavík. It’s close enough for convenience, far enough that you’ll feel like you’ve escaped the city life in favour of the healing pure air of the Icelandic nature.
Here, you get silence without isolation, scenery without coach tours, and nature without having to sacrifice access to a decent coffee.
You can hit the Golden Circle before lunch, dip your toes in the South Coast by mid-afternoon, and finish with a dip in the Secret Lagoon (with our exclusive discount) by dinner.
Use The Hill Hotel’s travel hub to plan it all with slightly less chaos than you usually bring to holiday logistics.
Lush landscapes, blooming wildflowers, and warm(ish) days
In summer, this geothermal haven erupts into a beautiful mixture of wild purple lupine flowers, rolling green hills, and that kind of perfect lighting that makes everything look suspiciously like a desktop wallpaper from 2007 (yes, we all had the same ‘start up’ noise just then).
You won’t be cracking out the sun loungers or applying aloe vera every ten minutes, but when it’s 15 degrees and you’re standing next to a steaming river in a T-shirt, it somehow feels like you’ve hacked the weather system.
It’s not tropical, but it’s steamy in its own very Icelandic way. It’s less piña coladas and more sulphur-y smells in hot springs.
The vibe?
Somewhere between fairytale meadow and low-key Bond villain lair, with just enough volcanic activity to keep things interesting and mildly concerning…formally known as…the sweet spot!
The Hill Hotel: Where Summer Romance Begins
If we’re all being truthful, romantic getaways are usually a bit of a gamble.
Either you end up laughing closely with some bubbly in a heart-shaped hot tub, or you end up at some aggressively beige countryside inn where the most exciting activity is trying to work the coffee machine.
The Hill Hotel is not either of these.
This is the kind of place that doesn’t need to scream romance with rose petals or saxophone playlists (but, we do have live Jazz nights!)
It just does its thing quietly and confidently: soft light, scenic views, a warm and cosy interior with a strong attention to detail, and the kind of peaceful silence you only get when you’re far enough from Reykjavík that no one’s trying to sell you a ‘famous’ (yes, Bill Clinton ate one…) hot dog.
Whether you’re here for a full honeymoon energy escape or just need a break from your neighbour’s endlessly barking dog, this is the place to actually enjoy each other’s company again, without sharing a wall with strangers or fighting over where to plug in your charger.
At the Hill Hotel, summer romance is less cheesy cliché, more “wow, we might actually get along without Wi-Fi.”
Sleep under soft light with panoramic views
The rooms at The Hill Hotel were basically built to flirt with the Midnight Sun.
Large full-width windows let you soak up every golden glimmer like some sort of Nordic houseplant.
You don’t wake up with a blaring phone alarm, you just slowly regain consciousness to a sun that has absolutely no intention of leaving. Fortunately, the solution to insomnia is well and truly blackout curtains – we’ve got you covered. Double-up with a sleeping mask and you are out.
It’s like being cradled in a luxury duvet while the world’s softest spotlight gently tells you it’s time for adventure.
Or coffee. Or both.
Evenings on the terrace, wine in hand
There’s something deeply smug about sitting outside at 11pm, sipping wine, in daylight.
It’s that very specific kind of smug usually reserved for people who remember their reusable bags at the supermarket or who somehow nail parallel parking on the first go.
We always recommend a crisp glass of wine or a cool local beer while you enjoy warm-light-on-your-face, and maybe even combine it with a dip in our on-site hot tubs.
Grab a bottle from reception (they’ve got taste and fridge space) and toast to your inbox being miles away, unread and very much someone else’s problem (…forget the out of office message for at least a day is all I’m asking!)
Remember at the Hill Hotel during the long daylight hours of the Midnight sun, sunset doesn’t really bother finishing, it just sort of bleeds into sunrise like a hungover conversation that never ends (ask our staff for help ending a dull bar conversation – joking!)
Slow mornings and spontaneous day trips
No need to rush here.
There are no 7am alarms (unless, of course, you want one).
No battles with hotel buffet queues or existential dread about fitting in an activity before the weather turns.
Lie in like it’s your superpower.
Stretch like you’re about to run a marathon (but then absolutely don’t).
Eat that leisurely breakfast you never get around to at home, and let our team get everything from your eggs to your coffee ready for you to start the day with.
Then, when the mood strikes (which it will), possibly after your second coffee and a scroll through your camera roll, set off on a spontaneous Golden Circle trip or find a waterfall that looks suspiciously too pretty to be real – I recommend Kvernufoss on the South Coast for an uninterrupted hike.
Check out the best day trips from Flúðir and let the open road take the lead while you pretend you’re not slightly directionally challenged (this is not a slight at my other half…unless she’s reading it).
What to Do From Flúðir in Summer
If summer in Iceland had a headquarters, Flúðir would be in the running.
You’re not just close to all the major highlights, you’re also blessed with things to do right outside your door that don’t involve endless queueing.
From late-night geothermal dips that feel vaguely illegal (they’re not) to tourist-free Golden Circle loops and secret walking paths that make Google Maps throw in the towel, this is where your Icelandic to-do list turns into a choose-your-own-adventure book.
And it doesn’t matter if your vibe is “romantic hot spring dip” or “accidentally walked 15 kilometres looking for a waterfall” – the surrounding area has you covered and our staff are on hand to give you expert local tips you won’t find in the endless articles out there (except mine of course!)
Below, we’ll show you what to do, when to do it, and how to look like you meant to end up in that remote valley with limited phone signal.
Secret Lagoon under the midnight sun
Yes, it’s called “Secret Lagoon” but the word’s out – it’s not all that secret anymore, but it is much quieter than the other lagoons around the country.
Still, roll up after 10pm and it feels like you’ve stumbled onto a warm, steamy film set where the extras forgot to show up as you avoid the crowds.
The geothermal water sits at a toasty 38°C, which is exactly what your legs want after pretending to enjoy a five-hour hike with questionable elevation gain.
There’s nothing quite like watching the steam rise into an already glowing midnight sky while having a cheeky beer or two.
At only five minutes from The Hill Hotel, it’s basically your geothermal back garden, providing you with an obvious way to round of your day exploring Iceland.
Golden Circle adventures at off-peak hours
Skip the crowds by exploring Iceland’s greatest hits after their daytime fans have gone home to post about it.
Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir are all within an hour or so from Flúðir, which means you can time your visit to perfectly miss the busloads of tourists and enjoy these wonders all to yourselves. If you’re a photographer like me, heading to these attractions either very late in the evening or early in the morning can provide an unreal spectrum of colours, particularly under a clear sky.
If I had to pick one time, I’d suggest going in the evening, when everything’s quieter, cooler, and debatably more romantic (…for your other half to hold your camera equipment).
It’s just you, your partner, and scenery so dramatic it looks like someone added a filter called “epic Norse saga.”
There’s something wildly satisfying about standing next to a thundering waterfall with no one else around except the people you want next to you.
Scenic walks, hidden trails, and glacier-fed rivers
Flúðir isn’t just a base.
It’s a full-on invitation to ditch the itinerary and go wherever your legs or mild curiosity take you.
Wander local trails that casually serve up views worthy of a drone ad, without the actual need to carry one.
Picnic by rivers that burble (great word) like they were sound-designed by a meditation app.
You might stumble upon wildflowers, geothermal streams, or the realisation that you’ve absolutely gone off-piste, which is all part of the adventure.
Follow your nose, your instinct, or our staff members can recommend a destination, spot for food, or activity that is to your liking.
Local Flavours and Summer Feasts
Greenhouse-grown meals at Friðheimar
Tomatoes grown with geothermal heat?
Yes please. Because nothing says ‘Icelandic innovation’ quite like using lava-heated water to grow Mediterranean fruit in a greenhouse in the middle of the tundra.
At Friðheimar, you dine in a gloriously steamy glass house, surrounded by vines and some boxes of bees humming in the background, allow you to eat from farm-to-table without hiking a mountain.
Order the unlimited tomato soup and pretend you’re being healthy, while tactically loading up on fresh bread, and saving money for some shots of tomato schnapps like it’s a wellness retreat run by Italians and Vikings (also, definitely try the tomato ice cream!)
It’s a food experience so weirdly specific it should be on a bingo card titled “Things That Shouldn’t Work in Iceland But Absolutely Do.”
Seasonal food experiences in the region
Summer brings all the goodies.
Fresh fish – Arctic Char is a local favourite.
Some of the best succulent lamb you’ll taste anywhere in the world.
And Iceland’s huge ice creams which you can buy at the local Ísbúð or Huppa (always ask for ‘Gamla Ísnum’, which is much creamier in taste).
The restaurant at The Hill Hotel brings seasonal Icelandic cooking directly to your plate with our array of seasonal dishes we love to see our guests sample.
No fuss, no foam, just proper good food.
Summer Itinerary: 3 Days of Romance & Discovery
Day 1: Arrival, soak, sunset walk
Check in into the Hill Hotel around mid-afternoon.
Drop off your bags.
Head straight to the Secret Lagoon to re-energise after your travels.
After soaking, go for a sunset hike in the local area, and make sure you find a good spot to watch the extraordinarily unique sunset.
End with a glass of wine or cold beer on the terrace for a fantastic start to a great few days off.
Day 2: Golden Circle with a twist
Start slow.
Have breakfast at the hotel – explore our array of breakfast options, and get yourself a couple of coffees to warm yourself up the day ahead.
Then set off late morning for a Golden Circle loop with a difference (they say ‘circle’ but it’s more of a triangle/square, if I’m honest).
Finish with dinner at Friðheimar in amongst the tomato plans, or upgrade to their new Vínstofa bistro. Just make sure you book in advance as this is a popular stop off for many travellers.
Collapse in bed after.
Day 3: Hidden waterfalls & heartfelt goodbyes
Check out, but not before one last coffee and a chance to squeeze the last bit of information out of our team for some hidden tips.
Take a detour to Hjálparfoss – a stunning waterfall far less visited and lesser-known.
If you have a little extra time, stop off at Skógafoss waterfall and take the short 15-minute hike to Kvernufoss and have a picnic behind the falls (there’s water there, don’t worry about bringing any!)
Then if you need to make your way back to Keflavík for a flight, it’s around a 90-minute – 2-hour drive. Alternatively, if you have time, make your way through the South of Iceland through black sand beaches, mossy lava fields, and unreal glacier tongues on your left.
Tips for a Romantic Summer Stay
Best time to visit for lupines and light
Mid-June to early July is when Iceland goes full purple explosion mode.
Lupines take over the hills like they own the place, turning the landscape into a real-life lavender filter (interesting fact: tourists love them, Icelanders hate them as they are wild flowers and often considered as ‘pest plants’).
It’s basically the country’s brief-but-glorious audition for a shampoo commercial.
Photographers go wild, couples suddenly turn into models, and even your worst angle starts to look passable.
Around the solstice (June 21st), the sun decides sleep is for the weak and insists on shining like a slightly overenthusiastic spotlight. This a is a great occasion to take an evening hike and watch the sun gently tap the horizon.
It’s peak ‘golden hour’, except there’s no hour, it just doesn’t end.
Bring sunglasses. And your smoulder (ask Dwayne Johnson for tips). And maybe a pair of shades for your phone camera, because you’ll want to be snapping a lot under this unique environment.
What to pack for summer in the Icelandic countryside
Layers are key, like always in Iceland, no matter the season.
Icelandic weather likes to change its mood more often than your friend on a group chat about dinner plans (or maybe that’s just me).
And while summer sounds warm, it can often play out quite unexpectedly (yes, snow is possible).
Here’s what to pack to keep things romantic, adventurous, and only mildly soggy:
- Waterproof jacket and trousers (because the weather does what it wants)
- A warm jumper or fleece (or two, if you’re cold-blooded)
- Base layers for unpredictable days
- Swimwear for spontaneous dips and if you’re planning on taking the Reykjadalur Hike
- Comfortable walking shoes that don’t squeak when wet
- An eye mask unless you want to play ‘Guess the Time’ at 3am
- Reusable water bottle (great for sampling the glacial waters near one of the many waterfalls)
- Portable phone charger (you’ll take 83 photos of the same waterfall and you know it)
- Sunscreen (yes, even in Iceland)
And if you’re the kind of person who packs three outfits for every mood, maybe add a small laundry bag. You’re going to need it.
Book Your Summer Escape at The Hill Hotel
Rooms go quick in summer as it’s very much our peak season, and by this point in the blog I’m sure you know why.
It turns out endless daylight, hot springs, and zero responsibility is quite the draw.
Everyone wants a slice of this warm(ish) wonderland, and who can blame them?
Between the panoramic views, the peaceful vibes, and the chance to live your best life with a beer in one hand and zero itinerary stress in the other, it’s no surprise.
Secure your stay now via our online booking page before someone else with better internet speed books your dream weekend.
You’ll thank yourself later when you’re relaxing under the midnight sun, still in your dressing gown, with your loved ones nearby asking the staff how to pronounce the 2010 volcano, Eyjafjalljökull.
Conclusion
Flúðir in summer is less a destination and more a vibe.
You come for the light.
You stay for the slow mornings, spontaneous adventures, and rejuvenating soaks in steamy lagoons.
With the Hill Hotel as your base, it’s romance with a side of volcano.
So book your ticket, and pack your bags.
Bring the person (hopefully, not just because you have to).
And chase the midnight sun before it disappears again for another year.
Trust me, this is one Icelandic love story you’ll be completing a TripAdvisor review for.