Dalsholt, Iceland
Torfhús Retreat offers geothermal luxury in authentic Icelandic turf houses, blending Viking heritage with modern comforts in the Golden Circle.
Torfhús Retreat is nestled in the heart of Iceland's Golden Circle, offering a unique blend of tradition and luxury. Each turf-roofed suite features stone floors, sheepskin throws, and a private hot spring-fed basalt tub. The retreat's location provides serene seclusion, with easy access to natural wonders like Gullfoss and Geysir. The retreat's philosophy emphasizes personalized service, with meals delivered to your door and tailored excursions. Guests can enjoy astronomy sessions and horseback rides into the highlands, experiencing Iceland as it once was. The retreat's design reflects Viking heritage, offering a luxurious yet authentic Icelandic countryside experience.
Torfhús Retreat provides immediate access to Iceland's iconic outdoor adventures. Guests can embark on glacier hikes on Langjökull or explore the Þjórsárdalur valley on horseback. In summer, mountain biking and off-road 4x4 routes traverse lava fields and volcanic ridges. Winter offers snowmobiling across Langjökull and guided ice cave tours, with Northern Lights excursions into the highlands. The retreat's location is ideal for those seeking high-adrenaline and scenic adventures, with hiking trails leading to Háifoss waterfall, Gjáin canyon, and nearby volcano craters. Whether exploring on foot, horseback, or vehicle, guests experience the elemental beauty of southern Iceland.
Explore additional experiences in the surrounding area.
Route length: 8.4km loopEstimated time: 2hLoop routeGullfoss is a protected nature reserve and a notable tourist attraction. It is classified as a protected area with a protection class of 3. Visitors come to enjoy the natural surroundings and the scenic beauty of the site.
Route length: 4km linearEstimated time: 53minLinear routeJata is a track of tracktype grade 4. Grade 4 tracks indicate a more challenging path, possibly rough or uneven terrain.
Route length: 5.1km linearEstimated time: 1hLinear routeMiðfellsvegur is a rough track graded 5 with a ground surface, marked as 4WD only but permissive for motor vehicles and motorcycles. The track's horrible smoothness reflects challenging terrain.
Route length: 1.3km linearEstimated time: 17minLinear routeTungufell is a track with a grade 2 difficulty for 4WD vehicles, indicating a smoother and more accessible route compared to higher-grade tracks. The way tag classifies it as a highway track.
Route length: 17.2km linearEstimated time: 4hLinear routeMiðfellsvegur Vestur is a poorly maintained track suitable only for 4WD vehicles. The tracktype is grade 5, indicating a very rough condition, and the smoothness is documented as horrible.
Route length: 20.7km linearEstimated time: 1.5hLinear routeLínuvegur is a gravel track with a tracktype grade 4 and restricted to 4WD vehicles. The gravel surface suggests it could be traversed by mountain bikes or hikers prepared for rough terrain.
Straight-line distance from hotel: 50 m directA partner experience lists a private Icelandic horse experience in Reykjadalur valley with hands-on stable time and gentle riding for all ages. It says guests meet Icelandic horses, learn with expert handlers, and ride through Ölfus landscapes on a two-hour tour.
Straight-line distance from hotel: 50 m directSeason: winterThe retreat offers stargazing from its grounds. It also says winter months can bring Northern Lights viewing.
Straight-line distance from hotel: 50 m directTorfhús Retreat says its team can arrange private journeys through the Golden Circle’s most significant landmarks. A partner itinerary describes a full-day privately guided Golden Circle tour visiting Þingvellir, Haukadalur geothermal valley, and Gullfoss waterfall.
Route length: 1.2km linearEstimated time: 16minLinear routeTjarnardalur is a grade 2 highway track providing a decent quality path. It is named and accessible for trekking.
Dining at Torfhús Retreat is a personalized culinary journey, echoing Viking longhouses. Meals feature Icelandic staples like free-range lamb and line-caught fish, with a focus on organic sourcing and slow cooking. The kitchen uses geothermal ovens and open flames, creating dishes with smoke and depth. Guests gather nightly for a changing multi-course dinner, while breakfasts and lunches highlight home-baked breads and local butter. The retreat's kitchen has earned praise for its authenticity and private atmosphere, making dining a ritual of comfort and ancestral flavors.
Torfhús Retreat offers a unique wellness experience with private basalt hot tubs filled with geothermal water. Each villa provides a personal space for relaxation, surrounded by mountains and moss-covered fields. Guests can enjoy soaking under the sky, listening to the natural sounds of Iceland. Massages and in-room wellness treatments focus on relaxation after outdoor adventures. The retreat's stone sauna and quiet lounges reflect the natural materials of the landscape, offering a deeply personal and serene wellness experience.
Torfhús Retreat integrates sustainability through the use of geothermal energy, powering its greenhouses and heating the private basalt hot tubs. This approach reduces reliance on fossil fuels and minimises the retreat's carbon footprint. The emphasis on local sourcing extends to the culinary offerings, with ingredients like free-range lamb and line-caught fish. By prioritizing local and organic produce, Torfhús supports Icelandic farmers and reduces food miles, aligning with its commitment to sustainable hospitality.
torfhus-retreat offers 3 accommodation types.
Torfbær Suite
A cozy, rustic one-bedroom residence designed for two guests, combining compact comfort with a chalet-style Icelandic feel. The suite includes a bedroom, bathroom, and living area, plus a fully equipped kitchen and access to a shared geothermally heated basalt stone…
Torfhús House
This larger two-bedroom house is made for families or small groups who want more space and privacy. It features two rustic bedrooms, a bathroom, a living room, and a fully equipped kitchen, with a private geothermally heated basalt stone pool…
Torfvilla
The Torfvilla is the retreat’s largest accommodation, designed as a standalone private residence for up to eight guests. It offers four ensuite bedrooms with king or twin bed setups, generous living and dining areas, and a full kitchen. Outside, the…
Experience the fusion of Viking heritage and modern luxury at Torfhús Retreat. Enjoy private geothermal bathing and personalized service in the heart of Iceland's Golden Circle.
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