Torfhús Retreat
In the land of fire and ice, where the Golden Circle burns bright, an eco-luxe retreat rewrites Icelandic tradition
Turf-topped local stone and knotty reclaimed wood are the dominating features of the chalet-style residences at Torfhús Retreat. Snug yet spacious, Torfbær rooms are made for two – with verandas for stargazing and shared geothermal basalt stone hot pools. Meanwhile the two-bedroom Torfhús rooms have private kitchens and a sunken pool that’s just for you. If you’re bringing the whole family, reserve The Villa. Every element is designed around connection – with the land, the skies and with each other. A personal chef levels up luxury, while a hot pool, cold plunge and sauna are the definitive wellness trio.
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This is a hotel that aims to tread lightly on the land it’s a part of. Which means the furniture you sit on may have been crafted from old Icelandic fishing vessels. The soft lighting in your room is powered by geothermal and hydroelectric energy. And when you set out on an adventure, the hotel will help guide you across the region’s wild natural wonders. In spring, travel wildflower-speckled meadows to catch a rainbow above the double-tiered Gullfoss Waterfall, or hike the trails that zigzag up nearby mountains. Experience the ‘midnight sun’ in summer, or cast your gaze upwards in autumn when the northern lights begin to dance. Many of Iceland’s legendary sights are within easy reach – from the Geysir Geothermal Area to UNESCO-protected Þingvellir National Park.
Enjoy your stay!
27 Rooms | 1 Floor | 1 Restaurant |
Actively sustainable luxury hotels
Environmentally Conscious
Treading lightly on the Icelandic landscape, the only footprints you’re likely to find here are those of the guests, encouraged to walk around this retreat. Though there is an electric shuttle to hop aboard too. Inspired by the geysers and glaciers that punctuate this island, Torfhús Retreat carefully harnesses the elements, using geothermal and hydroelectric energy to power the entire hotel. So expect cocooning rooms and naturally warmed pools. And when the snow thaws, regenerative planting and native species blanket the once-barren countryside in greenery.
Cultural Custodians
Bedrooms aren’t simply a place to stay; they wrap you in the Torfhús tradition. Basalt stone hot pools aren’t an added luxury; they immerse guests in geothermal bathing rituals. Each experience in this one-of-a-kind escape is designed with authenticity and intention. It could be ‘Réttir’ sheep courting, knitting workshops, or introductions to artists with deep connections to Torfhús Retreat. When stepping out – to Gullfoss or Þingvellir perhaps – trusted guides will tell the tales of those who have made their mark on this storied land.
Community Minded
Flowers and produce grown in Icelandic greenhouses. Music sung in the Icelandic tongue. Keychains carved from Icelandic wood. Rich craftsmanship is woven into Torfhús Retreat – from checking in at reception to settling down to dinner. The outer buildings and inner furnishings are handmade, celebrating nearby makers and reclaimed materials. Meanwhile chefs champion the island’s farmers and growers, using raw ingredients that make just a short journey from farm to fork – with fish sourced sustainably. To give back, the hotel also supports voluntary rescue teams that provide lifelines locally.
Our Hotel
Midnight sun, sea and sand
Never-ending sunlight, glacial shores and black-sand beaches – Iceland promises an utterly unique ‘day at the beach’. From Torfhús Retreat head to the South Shore, a dramatic coastline carved from lava with basalt columns stretching towards the sky. Find your way to the Lego-like Reynisdrangar sea stacks, ride an Icelandic horse beside the waves or snorkel between tectonic plates. Just don’t miss the ice caves here. Glacial shifts over thousands of years have shaped a lunar-like grotto, with kaleidoscopic walls. Elsewhere, you can embark on a Highland expedition with a private guide, seeing the Rhyolite Mountains and natural pools that locals have bathed in for hundreds of years.
Chasing waterfalls. Zipping across glaciers.
Nature really puts on a show in this part of Iceland. Bring cameras to capture the crashing cascades of Hjálparfoss and the staggering height of Háifoss – pausing in between to see the Viking imprints left on the land around Thjorsardalur Valley. See the canyons from the water on a river raft or kayak. Ride a snowmobile across Langjökull glacier or drive a buggy into the Highlands and through Haukadalur Forest. Every day, and each journey, promises a fresh perspective on this unique landscape.
Our rooms
Torfbær
Torfhús
Torfvilla
SLH Club Reviews
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Key Features
All Hotel Features and Services
- Complimentary coffee in lobby
- Concierge desk
- Dry cleaning
- Laundry service
- Free parking
- Outdoor parking
- Wakeup service
- BBQ and picnic area
- Jogging track
Location of your stay
Hotel Address
Torfhús Retreat
Bláskógabyggð
Iceland
Check in:
1500
Check out:
1100
What3words location:
tidiness.quashing.inhabitantsWhere is it?
150 kms to airport Keflavik