Hotel Borg by Joanna Monkhouse

The Hotel Borg is a hotel with history. It was opened in 1930 by an Icelandic Olympic wrestler who made his fortune as a strong man in the Barnum and Bailey circus. In those days, Reykjavik lacked a first class hotel, so he founded the Borg, which was soon hosting visiting heads of state, foreign dignitaries and all eminent visitors to Iceland.

For three decades from the founder’s retirement in 1960 the hotel steadily declined. Located on a pretty square in the very heart of town, opposite the Parliament building, it almost became rooms for MPs. Extensively rebuilt and totally refurbished for the reopening in 1993, drawing heavily on the original décor for inspiration, the Borg was once again a triumph of Art Deco.

The lobby has been renovated to its 1930 state, murals have been uncovered and restored, as has the dining room’s cork floor. The Johannes room is a small lounge celebrating the founder and leading onto the dining room and bar. Somewhat lacking in atmosphere during the day, by night it serves some of Reykjavik’s best cuisine. Next door is the Kaffibrennslan, a popular hangout for a drink or a coffee, serving a wide range of food throughout the day.

The spacious bedrooms are an stylish mix of Deco furnishings, Matisse prints and Icelandic art. (The interior designer is now the owner of 101 Hotel.) The Tower Suite has the best views being on the 5th floor, and the elegant Black Room is the most popular in summer as the dark walls absorb the light. The new section of Hotel Borg rises above the Kaffibrennslan, and these rooms have been carefully integrated into the 30s style. Each is uniquely decorated with many vibrant antique pieces, in both the old and new parts. Views extend over the heart of the old town. Bathrooms have black tiles, shower heads the size of dinner plates, sandblasted mirrors, Deco light fittings and more Matisse prints. There are three telephones in each room – by the bed, on the desk and in the bathroom. All rooms have safes, cd hifi, clock radios, coffee facilities, trouser press, and a tv and video. The Borg has a large collection of films and cds that can be borrowed free of charge.

Hotel Borg was the first hotel in Reykjavik and has for the last decade regained the top position that it occupied for its first 30 years. The varied décor of the 45 rooms and 5 suites warrant repeat visits and the welcoming and responsive staff ensure that many of the guests return.