Torfhús Retreat, South Iceland

Medieval meets modern ecoluxury in the raw Icelandic wilderness. Torfhús Retreat presents a unique countryside lodging, with 25 turf-covered houses. The stylish aesthetic of the main lodge remains true to the region’s Viking roots, with candlelit, craggy stone walls and a traditional fishing boat reimagined as a sofa for guests. From the magic served up in the restaurant to the enchanting Northern Lights dancing around the night sky, Torfhús Retreat is – without doubt – unforgettable.

LOCATION

Beautifully nestled in the rural landscape of Selfoss, Torfhús Retreat presents the best of both worlds. Secluded and alluring, yet still conveniently close to Iceland’s unmissable Golden Circle and a 90-minute drive from Reykjavik. Zero light pollution makes Torfhús Retreat a superb destination for stargazing and getting a glimpse of the jaw-dropping Aurora.

YOUR ROOM

Inspired by the Vikings’ craftsmanship, the traditional stone-slated, turf-roofed houses seamlessly blend into the surrounding landscape. Inside your Icelandic home, the one or two-bedroom hideaways all host open-planned kitchen-lounges, tastefully designed with cozy finishes. Grab a drink and relax in the steamy waters of your outdoor basalt stone pool after a day of exploration.

WHY WE LIKE IT

It’s rare to find an Icelandic hotel where the dishes served are as impressive as the hotel itself. The ingredients used in Langhús are farm-to-table fresh and locally sourced, with menus regularly changing to reflect the seasonal produce available. But what is even more remarkable is the creative theatrics displayed within the presentation itself, creating highly memorable experiences that burst with flavor.

SUSTAINABILITY

To remain in harmony with the natural environment, Torfhús Retreat was built with reclaimed wood and both the houses and basalt pools are powered by sustainable geothermal energy. Ingredients used at the restaurant are all locally sourced, from the fruits and vegetables grown in greenhouses to the freshly-caught salmon from the rivers and mountain-grazed lamb from local farms. Meanwhile, plastic bottles are non-existent and electric cars have been introduced for housekeepers and local excursions.