Imagine this: you’re lying warm under a duvet, half sitting up, and through the transparent roof you see the Northern Lights dancing above you. No cold walk, no frozen fingers, just enjoying it from your bed. In Iceland they exist: bubbles, glass igloos, domes that are specially designed for this. They are super luxurious and provide one of the most special overnight stays you’ve probably ever booked anywhere. In this blog I’ll take you along several options!
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Why you’ll find bubbles, domes & igloos in Iceland to stay overnight
No streetlights, no hustle and bustle around you, just silence and endless dark sky above you. You’re lying warm and comfortable in your bubble, dome or glass igloo, while you look up through the roof. And then it happens: the Northern Lights appear, right above your bed. That appeals to tourists (and probably you too). In Iceland they cleverly capitalize on that. They also know that one of their most beautiful highlights is visible in the middle of the night. And well, then you’re usually in bed!
You don’t have to run outside in the cold to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. It literally comes to you. That’s exactly why these places are ideal for couples or travelers looking for something unique and romantic.
Because these are such popular AND exclusive accommodations, there is one downside: they book up quickly. Anyone who has this on their bucket list would do well to reserve early. Because sleeping under the Northern Lights in your own glass dome is simply special!
6 special overnight stays in domes, bubbles & igloos in Iceland
Here are seven inspiring places that perfectly fit the luxury-and-unique idea. (Note: availability may vary per season. Click on the booking link to check this).
1. Buubble Hotel – Ölvisholt
📍 South Iceland, near the Golden Circle
This is perhaps the most famous bubble in Iceland, also called the “5 Million Star Hotel”. You sleep right in the middle of a forest, far away from light pollution, with only nature around you. Perfect to combine the Golden Circle with an unforgettable night under the stars.
👉 Check prices & availability of Buubble Hotel – Ölvisholt
2. Buubble Hotel – Hrosshagi
📍 Selfoss, South Iceland
These bubbles are a bit closer to Reykjavik, but still wonderfully remote. Ideal if you’re only in Iceland for a short time and don’t want to drive too far, but still want to experience the unique bubble experience.
👉 Check prices & availability of Buubble Hotel – Hrosshagi
3. Panorama Glass Lodge
📍 South Iceland, along the south coast near Hella
These are not bubbles, but luxury wooden cabins with a glass roof and panoramic windows. Including your own hot tub! Perfect for couples who want to combine romance and comfort with Northern Lights spotting.
👉 Check prices & availability of Panorama Glass Lodge
4. Golden Circle Domes
📍 Near Þingvellir National Park (Golden Circle)
A great place to start or end your day trip along the famous Golden Circle. The domes are atmospherically furnished with wooden details and a large panoramic window on the nature.
👉 Check prices & availability of Golden Circle Domes
5. Reykjavik Domes
📍 West Iceland, near Reykjavik
One of the domes that is super close to the capital Reykjavik. Nice with your own hot tub and a shared kitchen.
👉 Check prices & availability of Reykjavik Domes
6. Helja Stay Glamping Domes
📍 South Iceland, Hella
These domes are cozy, new and clean. There’s also plenty of warmth. Guests rave about this Dome and the view is fantastic!
👉 Check prices & availability of SkySight Domes
More glampings in Iceland
Still not found the ideal glamping on your route? Fortunately there are more!
Practical tips for your stay
Are you traveling as a couple? Then these are especially romantic hotels in Iceland that can make your trip special. Especially the bubbles and domes are ideal for couples: cozy, warm and yet right in the rugged nature. Add a glass of wine and the Northern Lights, and you have an evening you’ll never forget. Traveling with children? Then check carefully if the facilities are suitable for them.
- Rent a car
Many of these accommodations are remote. Your own (or rental) car gives you flexibility AND access to dark spots. - Clothing & equipment
Even if you’re inside: dress in layers, wear wool socks and bring a thermos. A tripod for your camera is indispensable. - Photographing the Northern Lights
Use a tripod, set your camera to long exposure (10–30 seconds), and experiment with ISO. - Flexibility & patience
Sometimes it’s cloudy or the Northern Lights come late at night. Plan multiple nights to increase your chances. There are also handy apps that tell you the chances and give notifications! - Book early & check availability
These accommodations fill up quickly. Especially from December to February. Use the links above to check your dates directly.
What is the difference between bubbles, domes and igloos in Iceland?
When you’re looking in Iceland for a special place to sleep under the Northern Lights, you’ll quickly come across three terms: bubbles, domes and igloos. It may sound like they’re all the same, but there are clear differences. Below I’ll explain what you can expect.
What is a bubble?
The bubbles are perhaps the most magical option. Imagine a transparent bubble, right in the middle of a forest or open field. Inside there’s only a bed and a heater, nothing else. Simple, but impressive, because all night you have 360-degree views. It feels like you’re sleeping outside, but without the cold. Perfect for anyone who wants a pure and minimalist experience.
What is a dome?
The domes are a bit more luxurious. They are half domes, often with a large window facing the nature. Inside it’s more spacious and cozily furnished: a good bed, often a wood stove, sometimes even a hot tub or sauna next to your dome. Ideal if you want just a little more comfort, but still seek that cozy glamping feeling.
What is a glass igloo?
The glass igloos are in a class of their own. These are actually small cabins with a glass roof or large windows. You have all the amenities here that you expect from a luxury stay: a kitchen, a bathroom, a comfortable seating area. Often with a hot tub too. It’s the perfect choice if you want to stay longer in one place, but still want that special view of the starry sky and Northern Lights.
- Choose a glass igloo if you want to treat yourself to ultimate romance and all comfort.
- Choose a bubble if you’re going for the pure, simple nature experience.
- Choose a dome if you love glamping with extra atmosphere and luxury.
