Our Blog RSS

Green Key

GK 3
28/11/2022 12:11

Center Hotels has signed a contract committing the hotel chain to apply for the Green Key award for all their eight hotels located in the city center of Reykjavik - the capital of Iceland. The signing took place on December 12th between the representative from the Green Key in Iceland and the Center Hotels team.

Being a family run business founded by the husband-and-wife team, Kristófer and Svanfríður with a simple guesthouse in 1994, Center Hotels has a long-rooted history of accommodation in the heart of Reykjavik that now encompasses eight hotels, the latest established in 2021. The hotel chain has a will to do well as can be seen by a certification of equal pay since 2018 and an equality award two years in a row, but now we have committed the hotels to meet the rest of sustainability in a firm and organized way with Green Key as its framework. It was the COO of Center Hotels, Eva Josteinsdottir and the National Operator for Green Key in Iceland from the certification body Vottunarstofan Tun, Ragnar Thordarson who signed the contract on December 12th 2022, accompanied by Center Hotels’ Green Key committee.

Eva Josteinsdottir, COO at Center Hotels said this on the occation:

"We are very excited about signing the contract with Green Key. Center Hotels recognizes the environmental responsibility and welcomes the challenge. We believe that there are enormous opportunities within the hospitality business to practice sound and sustainable practices, and we, the team at Center Hotels, will do what we can to minimize the environmental impact of our operations. We are very lucky to have an incredible team that is truly dedicated and excited about taking part in all our green initiatives.”

Sigridur Helga Stefansdottir, Director of Marketing at Center Hotels added:

*"We are thrilled about the Green Key contract. We understand the importance of practicing sustainability and we know that our guests coming from all around the world feel the importance as well and want to know what we are doing in terms of sustainability practice at our hotels. We are therefore excited to have the opportunity to share the progress, the results and the Green Key program with them."

We believe this commitment is important for Icelandic tourism, including the opportunities for travellers to choose sustainable accommodation in Iceland’s capital as we have eight establishments accounting for roughly 18% of all hotel rooms in Reykjavik. We are excited to undertake the project in terms of becoming certified with the Green Key in 2023.

Photo: Eva Josteinsdottir COO at Center Hotels (front-left) and Ragnar Þorðarson (front-right) Green Key National Operator of Iceland from Vottunarstofan Tun with the Center Hotels´ Green Key committee behind them.

Verslunarmannahelgi or Merchant Weekend 2025
Verslunarmannahelgi, or Merchants’ Weekend, is Iceland’s biggest summer holiday. Held the first weekend of August, it’s packed with music festivals, camping, fireworks, and family fun across the country—from Reykjavík to the Westman Islands and Akureyri. Whether you’re up for live music or a peaceful nature getaway, this long weekend offers something for everyone.
August in Reykjavík – Festivals, Pride and Cultural Fun
August in Reykjavík is packed with color, music, and celebration. From the epic Verslunarmannahelgi festival and vibrant Reykjavík Pride to the city-wide joy of Culture Night and the smooth sounds of the Jazz Festival, this month offers something for everyone. Whether you're running the Reykjavík Marathon or just soaking up the summer vibes, it’s the perfect time to explore Iceland’s capital.
Reykjavík Bus Stops for Center Hotels Guests
Planning a tour or airport transfer from Reykjavík? This guide helps Center Hotels guests find the nearest designated bus stops for easy pick-ups and drop-offs. Whether you’re heading out for a Golden Circle adventure or catching your airport shuttle, we've got you covered with all the stop numbers and locations, just a short walk from your hotel.
A Winter Day in Reykjavík: Local Tips and Hidden Gems
Snow-dusted streets, cozy cafés, and a chance to see the Northern Lights. Winter in Reykjavík is nothing short of magical. Start your day with freshly brewed coffee and a cinnamon roll at one of the city's charming cafés, wander by the serene Tjörnin pond and explore colorful shopping streets like Laugavegur and Rainbow Street. Warm up in geothermal pools like Sundhöllin or the luxurious Sky Lagoon, then wind down with a hearty Icelandic meal and a scoop of local ice cream, yes, even in winter! If you're lucky, your night will end under a sky painted green by the Northern Lights. Reykjavík in winter? Unforgettable.
Soak Up the Summer: July Highlights in Reykjavik
Looking for ideas to make the most of July in Reykjavik? Whether you're into sunset cocktails, live music, outdoor adventures, or hidden art gems, the city is full of exciting ways to enjoy the summer. We've rounded up some of our favorite things to do in and around Reykjavik this month—from jet ski safaris and mountain climbs to intimate concerts and powerful festivals. Get inspired and plan your perfect July day (or night) in the city.