Reykjavik, IcelandMidborg
Thingholt by Center Hotels
Lava-lined printworks boutique
Midborg Reykjavik, Iceland
Renovated
2013
Price
$$
Rated for
Design Wellness LocalOutside the door
The house
Center HotelsLava-lined printworks boutique
The former printing house is an intimate boutique hotel, replacing industrial grit with dark, tactile interiors inspired by Icelandic folklore.
What it’s good at
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
It’s set in an industrial building from the Forties, renovated in a minimalist, largely monochrome modern style by the Icelandic-born, L.A.-based Gulla Jónsdóttir.
In a lively part of town
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Laugavegur's boutiques are two minutes away on foot, and the bars along Bankastræti sit just around the corner.
The rooms
Frosted-glass bathrooms have walk-in monsoon showers and cascade taps, and duplex loft suites add a second-floor lounge.
The whirlpool
An indoor whirlpool is sunken into the dark floor, surrounded by rough volcanic walls and candle lanterns.
The spa
A dedicated treatment room offers hot-stone therapies and body scrubs, steps from a steam bath and rainwater shower.
At the table
Breakfast is served on cowhide-upholstered chairs beneath pendant lamps, and the moody lounge pours local craft beers and whiskey.
How it began
From 1942 to 1994, the building housed the Ísafold printing works, which printed Iceland's national newspaper, Morgunblaðið.
Reykjavik
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.