Cave dining for two? Experience the most unique and delicious food at one of Iceland’s oldest caves! Hotel Rangá stands out among the most adventurous Icelandic hotels. Visitors of this small luxury hotel and cave restaurant have long been able to rely on the hotel's assistance in exploring the region's expansive natural landscapes, and the hotel's staff is especially skilled in guiding visitors in their search for the emerald and yellow lights known as the Aurora Borealis. The Icelantic Cave Dining excursion is just another perk that Hotel Rangá offers to lure visitors to its Icelandic corner.
The rich history of the Caves of Hella
Of the twelve artificial caverns that comprise the Caves of Hella, only four are usually accessible without a guide. The earliest artefacts discovered in Iceland, like crosses, carved benches, and paintings, may be found in these caverns. Visit South Iceland claims that the caverns may have been there long before the Nordic Vikings arrived.
Several tour groups have visited the caverns of Hella every day since they opened to the public in 2019. Each group gets to explore four out of the twelve known caverns. The same family has privately owned the properties where the caverns are located for almost 200 years. The family claims that knowledge of the existence of caves in the region dates back over a thousand years, even if most of their history has been lost or never written.
In the mysterious caves, a small group of fortunate tourists can arrange for what is arguably the most amazing cave dining experience in Iceland, if not Europe, with an Icelandic Viking-themed private dinner served on wooden plates and adorned with sheepskin throws and an abundance of lopapeysas (patterned wool sweaters) to keep everyone warm in the approximately 32-degree subterranean chamber.
Exploring the chilly subterranean chambers transports one to another bygone era. A few ancient wall carvings, a small shrine, and what could be an ancient stove are the only obvious artefacts of human habitation. The room has its distinct vibe, though, so you can almost feel yourself transported back in time.
Step into a unique dining experience at Hotel Ranga
In the unique setting of the Caves of Hella, Hotel Rangá is presently offering a dinner series that will transport you to the time of traditional Icelandic Viking feasting. Reserve a spot in South Iceland for an authentic Icelandic cave feast and chow down on gravlax, lamb shank, and more.
In one of the Hella Caves, they host a Viking feast for those who are looking for an unforgettable adventure. Gravlax, lamb shank, and a unique skyr dessert are the three courses that the chefs of the Hotel Rangá will be preparing for you. Indulge in a candlelit meal while listening to live music. As you sip on locally brewed brews and carefully selected vintages, remember the people who previously called these caverns home.
The caverns are delightfully chilly due to their subterranean location, and the best part? Children may enjoy the cave supper for half price! Whether you're planning a family outing or a romantic evening for two, this unique cave dining experience in an Icelandic cave will leave a lasting memory.
Eat like a Viking
The meal for the cave experience draws inspiration from a typical Icelandic Viking diet. Even though puffin tartar is served at Hotel Ranga, foods like raw puffin and fish porridge don't seem very appetising to modern travellers. However, with a little alteration, they become a lot more appetising. Using ingredients that would have been accessible circa 1000 B.C.E., the Hotel Ranga chefs created a contemporary menu that features delicacies such as smoked salmon crostini on fresh-baked bread in place of boiled sheep heads, lamb shank with seasoned bulgur, and dried char.
Skyr, a delicacy similar to yoghurt, covered with blueberries picked in the area, probably wouldn't have flinched at the sight of the ordinary Viking. The producing processes of this desert have remained mostly unchanged since the early days of Iceland. At each seat at the community table, guests are offered a wooden plate and a drinking cup made of volcanic stone. And in the true Viking spirit, there is no need for tablescaping; each dish is attacked with a single wooden tool.
How to book: Reach out to the staff at Hotel Rangá right away to reserve your traditional Icelandic cave feast. A week's notice is required to make the necessary preparations for this dining experience.
How much: The price for a private cave tour starts at €2690. The Viking feast, which includes three courses and beverages, costs an extra €165 per person.
Where to book: Send an email to the Hotel Rangá's concierge for additional details and to reserve a room. Dinner reservations are required.
