Svala Apartments by Heimaleiga

TL;DR: Listing was misleading and customer service unhelpful. I booked a studio with living room + bedroom, but was given a smaller unit. Staff denied the mistake for over a day before finally admitting it and offering €100. For €270 per night, the experience was far below expectations. Main issues: No real ventilation: Only a small glass panel that barely opened. The room was extremely hot and stuffy, very uncomfortable for sleeping. Bathroom smell: There was a strong odor that was not just from the hot water, as I confirmed at another accommodation later. Cleanliness: The bathroom was not properly cleaned — mold, stains, and dust were clearly visible. It looked like it had been neglected for a long time. Price not justified: The bed was squeaky, toiletries very basic (no conditioner, lotion, no qtip no cotton or extra towels), and overall the amenities felt far below what you’d expect at this price point. I’ve had better quality in hostels that cost a fraction of the price. Customer service: 13 Aug, 15:57: I called immediately after check-in to say I had the wrong studio. Staff insisted it was the correct one. 13 Aug, 16:29: Reply said the system “cannot promise” a specific room, even though my confirmation clearly showed a different studio type. 14 Aug, 11:24: Another reply stated it was “definitely” the correct studio, despite my proof. 14 Aug, 14:38: Only then did they admit it was their mistake and offered €100 compensation. Overall: I’ve traveled a lot and know mistakes can happen, but this took too much time and effort to resolve. Instead of enjoying my trip, I was busy proving something obvious. For €270 per night, this property is not what it advertises and not worth the price. edit: the studio they got me is 202

Very nice appartement in the center of Reykjavik. Close to everything. Noise doing the day and night is to be expected with such a down town placement. We only considered it a part of the atmosphere. Everything was clean and nice, the beds was good, kitchen was good, nice large bathroom. We had to contact owners once and they were very nice and helpful. Would choose to stay there again, if we come back to Iceland. We stayed there with 2 kids at 8 and 12 years old and it worked perfect, with plenty of space.

Stayed in 2 seperate rooms over 4 nights. Whoever designed the bathrooms in these apartments should be fired. Water gets everywhere from sink and shower. Caused an accident that required stitches. Other room issues: Windows do not fully shut and are drafty. Not ideal for cold nights and loud street. 1 radiator did not work. Listing was also misrepresented. Category for free parking is indicated, but only select rooms can park in lot by apartment. This information is not detailed in listing. If you are not 1 of these rooms, you will likely need to park .5 mile away uphill. Unable to cancel reservation with any refund after learning this fact.

Have nothing but wonderful things to say about this apartment. Located at the end of one of the main shopping streets in Iceland’s capital it is both peaceful and well located. It was easy to get to both the excursion meeting points and also a short walk (20 mins) to the harbour where a lot of key trips and attractions are found just as whale watching and the lava show. Everything was in good condition when we arrived and it was easy to check in and out. Zero complaints and can only recommend people stay here. The pull out sofa sleeps two and there are two single beds in the main room. The shower room is very spacious and everything needed is in the kitchen. We stayed on the fourth floor.

Svala Apartment 402 was excellent! Enjoyed our stay June 9-14 2024. On Main Street with so many shops and restaurants- easy walking distance to all. Two great balconies - 4 flights of stairs no elevator. Parking spot for 402 (only select apts have reserved parking in the back) small refrigerator (no freezer) nice size bathroom / shower and one bedroom with 2 twins or king and pull out sofa. The staff extremely responsive. Would stay again!