Things to do
In a world of dramatic topography, exploring the rugged outdoors is a core part of your stay here, and few fail to be affected by Iceland’s sheer natural majesty. During summer, traverse the valleys by super jeep to watch geysers spurt and thundering waterfalls plummet or ride an Icelandic horse across black sand beaches. Climb up into the glaciers of the highlands or ascend by helicopter for a thrilling bird’s eye view. Adventurous types may like to be lowered into the magma chamber of a dormant volcano. Come winter, snow blankets the landscapes creating a wondrous monochromatic beauty. Try heli-skiing and watch out for the ethereal Northern Lights – the unpolluted night skies around Torfhús will give you a good chance of seeing this bucket-list phenomena.
Sleeping
Comfortably furnished in natural materials, reclaimed oak and crafted furniture, the stone cottages have a simple aesthetic, influenced by Scandinavian design. Outside, an indulgent geothermally heated basalt stone hot pool is sunken into the ground – ideal for soaking tired muscles and the perfect spot to observe the delicate dance of the aurora borealis or bathing under a midnight sun in summer. A new villa offers a further degree of privacy and luxury for a group. With four bedrooms, five bathrooms and chef-prepared meals, it also has an enhanced spa area with a basalt pool, sauna and cold plunge.
Food & Drink
Surprisingly, Iceland has an abundance of fresh ingredients, cultivated in greenhouses heated by its never-ending supply of geothermal heat. Year-round, the country’s cuisine is dotted with fresh berries, herbs and salads and the chilly seas around Iceland give a ready supply of salmon and char, which is often served smoked. At Torfhús Retreat, the chef prepares delicious dinners every evening using ingredients sourced from just ten miles away. Plates come presented like works of art, full of flavour and wholesome freshness.
What We Think
Coming to Iceland is bound to stop you in your tracks because of its dramatic topography, geothermal activity and wealth of natural phenomenon from volcanos to geysers, glaciers to tectonic plates – but staying at Torfhús Retreat really grounds you into your environment. Its traditional architecture and turf-topped roofs are simultaneously historic yet cosy, providing a portal to Icelandic heritage as well as an utterly unique place to stay.
Best For
Torfhús Retreat certainly lends itself well to a couple – its romantic outdoor sunken tub and potential for Northern Lights-gazing make it ideal for a honeymoon or special trip for two. Having said that, kids love to splash in geothermal waters and the new Torfhús Retreat villa is lavishly ample for a multi-generational group.
We’d certainly suggest creating an itinerary around the Golden Circle to explore dramatic icecaps, glinting glaciers, active volcanoes and steaming lava fields.
