Family travelers have the chance to learn about Iceland’s 13 mischievous Santas and Christmas traditions this season like never before at Hotel Rangá. The Hella-based hotel brings back its beloved Yule Lad experience, complete with characters like Spoon Licker, Door Sniffer and Candle Beggar.
© Ingibjörg Friðriksdóttir
These troll-like brothers with unusual names share stories with young guests about unique Icelandic Christmastime folklore dating back to the 17th century. Additionally, Dec. 11 to 24, visiting young guests are invited to leave their shoes in the windowsill of their hotel room to receive a holiday treat from the 13 Santas. Goodies are also left on doorknobs for guests of all ages throughout the holiday season.
Hotel Rangá doesn’t stop there, though. From Nov. 21 to Dec. 13, the hotel hosts a weekend luxury Christmas buffet with Nordic favorites like reindeer meatballs, Christmas herring, laufabrauð and marinated leg of lamb. Parents can also enjoy spiced mulled wine.
To book the Yule Lad Tuck-in experience, email hotelranga@hotelranga.is in advance of booking to secure a reading from an Icelandic Santa.
© Ingibjörg Friðriksdóttir
In addition to cozy guestrooms and suites, as well as on-site dining, Hotel Rangá also allows guests to experience the best of the region with adventure tours and sessions to spot the northern lights.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedSlideshow
Nov 13, 20256 Fort Myers, Florida, Destinations for Family Travel
It’s time to start dreaming of your next family trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Fort Myers, Florida, with us.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Azores & Madeira: Portugal’s Island Paradises Await
Embrace the Portugal’s Magical Islands of the Azores and Madeira
Destinations
Nov 12, 202510 Must-Visit Gingerbread Houses
Family travelers looking to get in the holiday spirit might want to check out these gingerbread houses around the United States. From life-sized houses to museum-quality displays, these destinations offer some of the most jaw-dropping gingerbread creations.
Destinations / North America
Nov 12, 2025Cape May, New Jersey, Offers Holiday Happenings Perfect for Kids
Christmas is a magical time of the year in Cape May, New Jersey, especially for family travelers. Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture) offers tours and events designed for children and families, Nov. 21–Jan. 4, 2026. Here’s a closer look at what’s ahead:
Sponsored Content
TAP Air Portugal: A Milestone Year
From small airline to global success, TAP Air Portugal turns 80 and better than ever.
Travel Tips
Nov 12, 2025Why It’s Important to Teach Kids How to Use Maps
The next time you’re on a family travel road trip — even a short one — try giving your kids an old-fashioned paper road map. If you don’t have one, your nearest visitor center will likely have highway maps for your state. Show them where you are and where you are going, and suggest they follow along on the map as you travel.
ShareThis