Literary tourism has turned a page to become one of the most popular travel trends in recent times, as more and more people around the world go to places that are associated with their favourite books and authors.
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With book tours and festivals, themed cruises and dedicated attractions available for readers to enjoy, literature has grown into a key driver for travel. Now, a hotel has opened in northern Iceland which marks a new chapter for the trend.
Skáld Akureyri, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, is a design-led hotel that features 71 guest rooms and 15 serviced apartments inspired by Icelandic storytelling and Nordic design.
The new property is located on the historic Hafnarstræti street in the heart of Akureyri, which sits at the base of the stunning Eyjafjörður Fjord.
Showcasing Iceland’s celebrated tradition of poets and storytellers – the meaning of skáld – the hotel’s design and interiors include literary references, handcrafted Nordic materials, and bespoke artworks.
“Skáld Akureyri has been created as more than a place to stay,” said Magnea Þórey Hjálmarsdóttir, the hotel’s general manager.
“It is a house rooted in Akureyri, inspired by Icelandic poetry, and shaped by the surrounding landscape.”
Nordic cuisine at Abba-labba-lá
The rooms and serviced apartments at Skáld Akureyri come with fully-equipped kitchens, living areas and private balconies.
For those that don’t want to cook up their own feast, the hotel’s restaurant, Abba-labba-lá, serves contemporary Nordic cuisine which has a menu of dishes made from locally sourced Icelandic ingredients and seasonal produce.
There’s also a fitness centre and two rooftop terraces where guests can enjoy dining, drinks, and panoramic views over the town, the fjord, and surrounding landscape.
Things to see and do in Akureyri
Around 380 kilometres from Reykjavik, Iceland’s second city Akureyri is regarded as the “Capital of the North”.
The Skáld Akureyri, Curio Collection hotel offers a base to explore the city and area, including the famed Diamond Circle, a spectacular 250-kilometre scenic loop which passes waterfalls, hot springs, stunning coastlines and dramatic hiking paths.
Hotel guests can sign up for activities and experiences including whale watching, skiing, enjoying the midnight sun, and seeing the spectacular Northern Lights.