Farm accommodation

A farm stay in Iceland gives you the chance to immerse yourself in the country’s rural lifestyle while enjoying a homey and relaxed atmosphere. Unlike the many hotels in Iceland, farm stays offer a deeper connection to the land—whether on a working dairy farm, a horse-breeding ranch, or a family-run sheep farm.

In many cases, you’ll be a guest in a converted farmhouse, a farmhouse lodge, or even a farm hotel, which has been adapted to host travelers while retaining its authentic charm.

What sets farm stays in Iceland apart from your standard trip is the genuine look into Icelandic life outside the hustle of Reykjavik. You might help with the morning feed, taste locally sourced meals, or pick fresh produce for dinner. It’s an experience of slow travel at its best—immersive, meaningful, and undeniably memorable.

The Top 10 Farm Stays in Iceland

For a cozy escape surrounded by nature, farm stays in Iceland combine comfort, local hospitality, and unique experiences. Here are some of the best farm accommodations for an unforgettable countryside stay:

1. Efstidalur Farm Hotel: A family-run farm stay nestled in the Golden Circle with an on-site restaurant, homemade dairy products, and horse rentals. Perfect for those wanting a countryside stay with easy access to major attractions.

2. Farmhouse Lodge (Vik): A peaceful, small-scale lodge on Iceland’s South Coast, offering cozy accommodations and a fantastic location near the Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls and Reynisfjara Beach.

3. Stora-Asgeirsa Guesthouse: A scenic, rural guesthouse in North Iceland with a hot tub overlooking a waterfall, farm animals, and a tranquil atmosphere for those looking to get off the beaten path.

4. Hestaland Horse Farm Cottage: A charming cottage on a working horse farm in West Iceland, offering horseback riding tours and stunning mountain views, ideal for nature lovers.

5. Vallakot Farm Guesthouse: A cozy guesthouse in North Iceland near Lake Myvatn and Husavik, featuring a hot tub with valley views and a relaxing countryside setting.

6. Arctic Exclusive Ranch: A secluded, high-end farm stay in South Iceland with luxurious private houses, breathtaking glacier views, and a great location for northern lights viewing.

7. DalsSel Farm Guesthouse: A countryside retreat in South Iceland with views of Eyjafjallajokull volcano, close to major waterfalls, and a great place to experience Icelandic farm life.

8. Saltvik Farm Guesthouse: A quiet farm stay near Husavik, known for its whale-watching tours and horse-riding excursions, offering stunning ocean and mountain views.

9. Jadar Farm: A private, luxurious farm stay in West Iceland with a hot tub, well-equipped kitchen, and beautiful mountain surroundings, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat.

10. Hestaland Guesthouse: A budget-friendly farm stay in West Iceland with a simple, comfortable atmosphere and horse riding opportunities for guests.

Why Go on a Farm Holiday in Iceland?

A farm holiday in Iceland is a great way to experience the country’s natural beauty and local way of life. Staying on a farm gives you a more personal and authentic experience.

1. Authentic Cultural Experience

Icelandic farm holidays let you see what life is really like for local families. Instead of being a face in a crowd at a busy resort, you’ll get to chat with your hosts, learn about traditional customs, and maybe even pick up a few Icelandic phrases.

2. Unique and Cozy Iceland Accommodation

From rustic farmhouse settings to modernized farmhouse hotel conversions, there is a wide range of unique places to stay in Iceland that add an extra layer of character to your trip. Each farmhouse lodge has its own story, decor style, and background.

3. Stunning Natural Surroundings

Many farm stays in Iceland are located in breathtaking areas—close to glaciers, volcanoes, or dramatic coastlines. Imagine waking up to panoramic views of rolling hills, or stepping outside to see the northern lights dancing across the sky in winter.

4. Support Local Communities

By choosing a farm lodge or a farm hotel in Iceland, you’re directly supporting local farmers and small businesses. This is a more sustainable choice, as it redistributes tourism benefits to rural areas and often involves eco-friendly practices.

Best Regions for Farm Stays in Iceland

Iceland’s diverse landscapes make farm stays an excellent choice for travelers looking to experience the countryside. Depending on where you stay, you’ll have access to stunning coastlines, waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and quiet rural settings. Here’s a look at the best regions for farm stays in Iceland:

South Coast

Iceland’s South Coast is one of the most popular areas for farm stays. It is known for its waterfalls (like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss), black sand beaches, and glaciers. Many farms here offer easy access to day tours and hikes.

West Iceland and Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Often called "Iceland in miniature," Snaefellsnes peninsula in West Iceland boasts everything from lava fields to charming fishing villages. A farmhouse lodge here will put you close to Snaefellsjokull National Park, giving you a balanced blend of coastal and mountain scenery.

North Iceland

With dramatic fjords and geothermal wonders, North Iceland is perfect for travelers who crave wide-open spaces. Some of the best farmhouse lodges in Iceland are near Lake Myvatn, where you can soak in natural hot springs and witness unique volcanic formations.

Eastfjords

If you’re after seclusion, head east. The Eastfjords region is less visited, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility. Here, you can find family-run farmhouse stays perched on the edge of magnificent fjords.

What To Expect From an Icelandic Farm Stay

Icelandic farm stays provide a mix of rural charm and modern comforts, offering guests a chance to experience local life while enjoying scenic landscapes. Depending on the farm, accommodations and amenities can range from simple and rustic to high-end and luxurious.

• Accommodation can range from private guest rooms to self-contained cottages. Larger farms sometimes offer communal areas or a small restaurant.
• Depending on the season, you might join daily farm chores like milking cows, feeding sheep, or tending to horses. Some Icelandic farm stay hosts even run riding tours or nature walks.
• Expect fresh, farm-to-table meals. Many hosts serve traditional Icelandic dishes, which may include skyr, local lamb, or fish. Breakfast is often included, but be sure to confirm if lunch or dinner options are available, too.
• While some farm stays mirror the comforts you’d find in Iceland lodging or city hotels, others are more rustic. Check if there’s Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, or shared facilities before booking.

Tours and Activities To Enjoy While on a Farm Holiday in Iceland

Experience the best of Icelandic nature and culture with activities that go beyond the farm, from exploring glaciers to spotting the northern lights.

• Enjoy horseback riding tours on Icelandic horses while exploring rolling plains and coastal tracks near your farm stay.
• Experience unforgettable northern lights by staying in a remote farm lodge far from city lights during winter.
• Explore breathtaking ice formations up close with guided glacier hikes and ice cave tours, including stunning blue ice caves in winter.
• For nature lovers, many farm stays offer local fishing permits and guided bird-watching excursions.
• Enhance your farm holiday with local tours, from volcano adventures to hot spring tours, that let you discover Iceland’s stunning landscapes.

Trends in Farm Stay in Iceland: From Eco-Friendly Retreats To Mindful Travel

Farm stays in Iceland are becoming a top choice for sustainable tourism, offering eco-friendly accommodations and immersive local experiences. Here’s how they promote responsible travel:

• Farm stays in Iceland offer a farm-to-table dining experience with locally sourced, organic food that reduces environmental impact and supports local farmers and artisans.
• They feature eco-conscious builds by using renewable energy, sustainable materials, and water-saving systems in their accommodations.
• Guests can enjoy hands-on experiences through farming, cooking, and craft workshops that help them connect with Iceland’s rural culture.
• These retreats welcome visitors year-round, offering winter activities like northern lights viewing, skiing, and cozy countryside getaways.

By choosing a farm stay in Iceland, you not only enjoy an authentic experience but also contribute to a more sustainable and responsible form of tourism—one that values conservation, cultural preservation, and mindful travel.

Reconnect With Nature at an Icelandic Farm Stay

Breathe in the fresh Icelandic air, connect with nature, and immerse yourself in local traditions on an authentic farm stay in Iceland. Whether you’re seeking rustic charm or modern comfort, these farm getaways offer an unforgettable taste of Icelandic culture that stays with you long after you depart.