Iceland's tourism innovations never cease to amaze. What could possibly be better than watching the colorful Aurora Borealis from a comfy, traditionally designed room in a log house? An environmentally friendly houseboat that can be "installed" anywhere without harming nature! So, you can get up close to places where you would normally only spend a few minutes.
In this case, the Aurora Hut gently floats on the ice-cold waters of the Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon. The "igloo boats" are built in Ylivieska, Finland, before being transported to Iceland, where the managing company, Fjallsárlón ehf., takes delivery and places them in the most stunning spots.
Building each floating hut costs about 50,000 Euros, and there are only three of them for now, so don't expect a cheap stay.
Photo by Teitur Thorkelsson
The houseboats are said to withstand -50 degrees Celsius (that's -58 Fahrenheit for you, Americans), so you are not likely to get stuck inside it even on the harshest days.
Photo by Norbphoto
A night's stay on the Aurora Hut includes a trip around the lagoon and a light breakfast/dinner.
Photo by Norbphoto
From inside the hut and from its terrace, you can get a perfect view of Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe.
Aurora Huts are genuine hideaways. The floating homes are hidden in the lagoon, and it takes a 10-minute boat ride to get to them. So your privacy is guaranteed!
Photo by Norbphoto
The interior features a double bed designed for couples who need to be at least 20 to be allowed to stay for the night.
The Aurora Huts are environmentally friendly but nevertheless loaded with extras such as a wireless internet connection, kitchen, a nice sound system, and crazy-good views of the glacier.
Photo by Teitur Thorkelsson
There is even a hole in the ground designed for people who love fishing. Those of you who don't, can get a bottle of champagne with a view like this!
Boat transport from and to the AuroraHut
For all of you who are too scared to be trapped in a floating hotel overnight (you cannot go out during your stay) and are looking for something less adventurous, here is a complete list of unique hotels in Iceland.
Fjallsárlón Iceland, 785 Öræfi, Iceland
