Along the rugged coastline of Hellnar, Iceland, Arnarstapi Cottages offer a unique and cozy retreat for guests seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The charming cottages provide modern amenities while maintaining a rustic charm that complements the stunning surroundings. Each cottage offers breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, and nearby lava fields, creating a tranquil and picturesque escape for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Just a short drive away is the Snæfellsjökull National Park, home to the famous Snæfellsjökull glacier and volcano, offering endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Arnarstapi Cottages exemplify the principles of EPIC Stays through their commitment to environmental sustainability, local engagement, and ethical tourism. The cottages are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, minimizing their impact on the pristine Icelandic landscape. The management works closely with the local community, promoting cultural heritage and supporting local businesses. By incorporating sustainable practices such as energy-efficient systems and waste reduction initiatives, Arnarstapi Cottages ensure that their operations protect and preserve the environment. Their dedication to responsible tourism allows guests to experience the untouched beauty of Iceland while contributing positively to the local community and ecosystem.
Step back in time and experience the unique lifestyle of Iceland’s Cave People at Laugarvatnshellar, located near Þingvellir Natinoal Park in South Iceland. This one-of-a-kind attraction offers guided tours of the caves where two Icelandic families lived in the early 20th century. The caves have been preserved and restored to give visitors a glimpse into the challenging yet fascinating life of Icelanders who called these natural formations home. It’s an immersive cultural experience that tells the story of resilience, resourcefulness, and tradition, set against the dramatic backdrop of Iceland’s rugged landscape.
The Cave People exhibit stands out as an exemplary destination for EPIC Stays, showcasing local history and the preservation of cultural heritage. The project is committed to both environmental sustainability and community engagement, as it offers employment opportunities and collaborates with local artisans and historians. By preserving these historic caves, the company also promotes responsible tourism, ensuring that Iceland’s cultural and natural heritage is protected for future generations. This ethical tourism initiative allows guests to connect deeply with Iceland’s past while supporting sustainable practices.
In the heart of the old town of Blönduós the Old Church offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Originally consecrated in 1895, this beautiful structure has been lovingly restored and repurposed as part of Hótel Blönduós, providing guests with an extraordinary opportunity to stay in a former house of worship. With its serene atmosphere and rich history, The Old Church Suite promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
In the heart of the old town of Blönduós the Old Church offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Originally consecrated in 1895, this beautiful structure has been lovingly restored and repurposed as part of Hótel Blönduós, providing guests with an extraordinary opportunity to stay in a former house of worship. With its serene atmosphere and rich history, The Old Church Suite promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Set in the stunning landscape of Borgarfjörður, Fossatún Pods & Cottages offer a unique and cozy accommodation experience surrounded by Iceland’s natural beauty. The property is located near the famous Troll Falls and provides a peaceful retreat for guests looking to unwind amidst nature. The cottages and pods are modern and comfortable, offering panoramic views of the countryside, mountains, and rivers. Fossatún is also home to the Troll Park, a magical outdoor experience that immerses guests in Icelandic folklore. With hot tubs, walking trails, and local food at the nearby restaurant, this is a perfect stop for nature lovers and those looking to experience Icelandic mythology up close.
Fossatún Pods & Cottages exemplify the core values of EPIC Stays, with a strong focus on environmental sustainability and local engagement. The property is operated using renewable energy and strives to minimize its environmental impact. Guests are encouraged to explore the Troll Park, which is not only an homage to Icelandic folklore but also a way to promote eco-friendly tourism. The family-run business supports the local community through collaborations with nearby food producers and artisans. Additionally, Fossatún’s sustainable practices include waste reduction initiatives and energy-efficient designs in the pods and cottages.
Héraðsskólinn is a historic school building. The Laugarvatn Lower Secondary School was the cornerstone of the town’s development and has been revitalized as a boutique hostel that offers a unique blend of history, comfort, and charm. Originally built in 1928 by one of Iceland´s most famous architect as a regional school, this beautifully restored establishment now serves as a welcoming retreat for guests. With its scenic surroundings and rich heritage, Héraðsskólinn provides an unforgettable stay where you can stay and enjoy Iceland’s Golden Circle.
Héraðsskólinn exemplifies sustainable rural development and cultural preservation. The transformation of this historical school into a boutique hostel was driven by a commitment to maintain the building’s original character while incorporating modern amenities. This project, a collaboration between local entrepreneurs and the community, has revitalized Laugarvatn by attracting tourists and creating economic opportunities. The restoration honors the past while promoting environmental sustainability, utilizing eco-friendly practices throughout the renovation process. Héraðsskólinn stands as a testament to innovative design and rural regeneration, offering guests a chance to immerse themselves in Icelandic culture and history within a stunning natural landscape.
Step into history with a stay at Little House, a restored fishing lodge over 100 years old, nestled in the heart of the Westfjords. This charming cottage, originally built around 1900, offers a unique glimpse into Iceland’s traditional way of life. The house retains its classic architecture, featuring both ocean and mountain views, creating an idyllic setting for guests seeking an authentic Icelandic experience. From the loft, guests can look out onto the protected nature reserve of Hornstrandir, one of Iceland’s most remote and untouched regions. With its rich history and breathtaking surroundings, Little House is perfect for those looking to combine comfort with cultural immersion.
Little House is a prime example of EPIC Stays, offering a genuine Icelandic experience through its historical significance and connection to the local environment. The over-century-old lodge has been carefully restored to preserve its original character as a classic Icelandic hunting and fishing house. Staying here gives guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in Iceland’s past while enjoying the stunning views of the sea and mountains. The home is located near Hornstrandir, a protected nature reserve known for its pristine wilderness, giving guests a rare chance to experience Iceland’s untouched beauty. By supporting local craftsmanship and sustainable tourism, Little House ensures an experience that is both authentic and eco-conscious.
Midgard Base Camp in Hvolsvöllur is more than just a place to stay – it’s the result of a dream brought to life by Siggi Bjarni and his passionate team. They took an old, rundown cement factory and turned it into a lively space where adventure meets relaxation, offering a truly unforgettable experience. Here, guests can fully embrace the beauty and spirit of Iceland, while enjoying the warmth of genuine hospitality and the welcoming atmosphere of this community-driven retreat.
Midgard Base Camp is a good example of how regeneration and sustainable practices can create extraordinary travel experiences. By repurposing an abandoned industrial site, the team has fostered rural development and showcased SME innovation design. The commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of the Base Camp, from homemade furniture to eco-friendly operations. This approach not only enhances the environment but also strengthens the local community, making Midgard Base Camp a model for environmentally friendly and socially responsible tourism.
Discover the beauty of the Icelandic wilderness with a stay at Original North Glamping, located in Þingeyjarsveit in Northeast Iceland. This unique glamping experience allows guests to connect with nature while enjoying luxurious comforts. The site features spacious, fully equipped yurts with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the nearby mountains and valleys. Perfect for nature lovers, Original North offers a peaceful retreat where guests can relax and rejuvenate in harmony with Iceland’s natural wonders, all while remaining close to nearby attractions like seal watching and hiking trails.
Original North Glamping is committed to environmental sustainability and providing an authentic Icelandic experience for guests. The glamping site uses eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient practices to minimize its ecological footprint. By sourcing local products and collaborating with nearby artisans and businesses, Original North also supports the local economy and ensures that guests have a culturally rich experience. Staying at Original North allows guests to immerse themselves in the pristine natural environment of Northeast Iceland, with minimal environmental impact.
Panorama Glass Lodge offers a truly unique experience for guests seeking a romantic or nature-filled getaway in Iceland. Located in both South and West Iceland, this family-run business was the first in Iceland to offer lodges with glass ceilings, allowing guests to sleep beneath the Northern Lights or Midnight Sun. The lodges are carefully placed in remote, picturesque locations, ensuring privacy and breathtaking views of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes. Each lodge is equipped with modern luxuries like a private hot tub, while the design draws inspiration from Scandinavian architecture with sustainable materials. Whether you’re staying in South Iceland near Hella or their newly opened West Iceland location near Akranes, the Panorama Glass Lodge offers an unforgettable blend of comfort, privacy, and nature.
Panorama Glass Lodge is an exemplary model for EPIC Stays, focusing on environmental sustainability, privacy, and providing guests with an immersive nature experience. Built with eco-friendly materials and powered by sustainable electricity, these lodges are a perfect example of how luxury and nature can coexist. Refillable organic cosmetics from Sóley Organics, locally sourced products, and the use of pure spring water further emphasize their commitment to sustainability. The lodges offer guests not only a magical experience of watching the starry sky but also the comfort of knowing that their stay leaves a minimal environmental footprint.
Experience the surreal beauty of Iceland at Ion Adventure Hotel, a luxury eco-friendly accommodation located near Þingvellir National Park. Known for its futuristic design and remote location, the hotel appears as though it’s part of the otherworldly Icelandic landscape. Set against the backdrop of lava fields and close to Þingvellir National Park, this hotel offers panoramic views of the rugged terrain, geothermal pools, and, when lucky, the Northern Lights. The blend of cutting-edge architecture and sustainable living makes it a top destination for guests seeking an adventurous stay with a sci-fi feel.
Ion Adventure Hotel is committed to sustainability, luxury, and ethical tourism. The hotel is built using sustainable materials, heated by geothermal energy, and implements environmentally conscious practices throughout its operations. The hotel’s architecture, with its sleek, modern design and elevated positioning, resembles a futuristic outpost, perfect for those seeking a sci-fi-inspired stay. It offers guests a direct connection to Iceland’s natural beauty, including hot springs, volcanic landscapes, and starry skies free of light pollution.
ReykjavÃk Domes is a unique glamping experience located just outside ReykjavÃk, offering guests a combination of nature and comfort in the form of geodesic domes. These domes are situated in a peaceful area, surrounded by Iceland’s scenic beauty, yet close to the city for easy access to urban amenities. The domes are insulated and heated, providing year-round comfort, and feature large panoramic windows that allow guests to stargaze and enjoy the Northern Lights while staying warm and snug inside their own private dome. It’s an ideal spot for guests seeking a memorable stay that is a little out of the ordinary.
The domes are built with sustainability in mind, using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems to minimize their environmental impact. ReykjavÃk Domes also work closely with local businesses and services, supporting the Icelandic economy and promoting responsible tourism practices. This location combines proximity to ReykjavÃk with the tranquillity of Icelandic nature, making it an appealing option for eco-conscious guests looking to explore both the urban and natural attractions of the country.
Set amidst the peaceful landscapes in South Iceland, The Torfhús Retreat offers a unique blend of history and comfort, inviting guests to experience Icelandic tradition with all the modern luxuries. These traditional turf houses, inspired by Viking-era architecture, provide a sustainable and immersive experience, allowing guests to connect with Iceland’s cultural heritage. Each turf house is thoughtfully designed with natural materials and provides a cozy, rustic atmosphere, while modern amenities such as private hot tubs and fully equipped kitchens ensure comfort. Surrounded by nature, The Torfhús Retreat is perfect for guests seeking peace, solitude, and a deep connection to Iceland’s history and landscape.
The Torfhús Retreat is dedicated to sustainability, local engagement, and preserving Icelandic heritage. The turf houses are built using eco-friendly, sustainable materials, minimizing their environmental impact while respecting traditional Icelandic building techniques. The retreat supports the local community by sourcing local produce and collaborating with nearby artisans. Staying at The Torfhús Retreat not only offers guests an environmentally conscious experience but also a journey into Iceland’s cultural past.
Sölvanes Farmholidays in the tranquil countryside of VarmahlÃð in the North of Iceland offers an authentic Icelandic farm stay experience and is part of Hey Iceland, Iceland´s Farm holidays organisation offers around Iceland – https://www.heyiceland.is/ . This family-run farm invites guests to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of rural Iceland, enjoying comfortable accommodations and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Sölvanes provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience traditional Icelandic farm life.
Sölvanes Farmholidays embodies sustainable tourism and rural development. The farm integrates environmentally friendly practices in its daily operations, promoting a sustainable lifestyle and offering guests an eco-conscious stay. The collaboration between local farmers and the community has fostered economic growth and cultural preservation in VarmahlÃð. Guests can participate in farm activities, explore the scenic landscapes, and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region. Sölvanes stands as a model of how rural tourism can contribute to local economies while preserving traditional ways of life, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an immersive and sustainable travel experience in Iceland.
Efstidalur Farm Hotel offers a unique blend of traditional Icelandic farm life and modern tourism. Located in the heart of the Golden Circle, this family-run farm provides cozy accommodations, farm-to-table dining, and various engaging activities. Guests can enjoy stunning countryside views while experiencing the authenticity of Icelandic agriculture.
Efstidalur exemplifies sustainable rural development and SME innovation by diversifying its operations to include tourism. This strategic approach not only supports the local economy but also promotes environmentally friendly practices. By integrating farm operations with tourism, Efstidalur reduces waste, supports local food systems, and educates visitors on sustainable agriculture. This model of diversification ensures the long-term viability of the farm while offering visitors a genuine Icelandic experience, from homemade dairy products to interactive farm tours and horseback riding adventures.
