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Row of black wooden clad, turf roofed houses of Torfhus Retreat in summer with grass infront and cloudy blue sky.

Torfhus Retreat

Wilderness
Southwest and Golden Circle, Iceland

Surrounded by mesmerising Icelandic wilderness, the 25 turf covered houses of Torfhus Retreat blend beautifully into their environment.

Each of the traditional style houses has exclusive or shared use of a basalt hot tub – surrounded by great slabs of lava, these geothermal baths are both relaxing and rejuvenating. Interiors of the wooden retreat are cosy and welcoming with open plan layouts, underfloor heating and furnishings showcasing a sense of history and fun. Swords and shields adorn the walls of the viking inspired Langhaus where the lobby and dining room are lit by wagon wheel chandeliers and guests can relax on the fishing boat sofa.

Created by two families through their love of Iceland and all things equine, the owners ensure service is exemplary but unobtrusive and dining a theatrical experience, with innovative cuisine using locally sourced produce.

Why we like Torfhus Retreat

Torfhus really does boast an enviable location, in the middle of nowhere, yet is within easy reach of many key sites. Switch off and escape the world – whether against blue skies in summer, the snowy backdrop of winter or the swirling green heavens of the aurora, a stay here is a magical one.

Facilities

The 10 two bedroom houses known as Torfhus offer the chance for complete privacy and seclusion. Each has a fully equipped kitchenette plus their own private basalt pool and the option to have meals delivered and served in your accommodation. An additional 15 individual Torfbaer suites share a basalt pool with their two adjacent neighbours. All enjoy views over the volcanic plains to the mountains beyond.

The stables are a lovely addition and guests are welcome to just say hello to the four legged Icelandic residents, or head out for a ride.

Activities

A stay at Torfhus Retreat can be as active or relaxing as you desire. Bathe in the geothermal pools, take beach strolls in search of puffin or just read a book and await the northern lights. Alternatively, there are plenty of ways to explore some of the magical Icelanic landscapes. Take a super jeep safari across lava fields to volcanic craters, hike into a dormant crater, access glaciers and ice caves, explore by horseback and even snorkel or dive in glacial waters. Take to the skies by helicopter for an aerial view of the geothermal landscapes.

Sustainability

Torfhus Retreat is powered exclusively by geothermal and hydroelectric energy ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding environment. Building materials throughout the lodge have either been locally sourced or upcycled and their ultimate goal is to produce zero waste.

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Just below the Arctic circle, a holiday to Iceland offers an exciting mix of nature, culture and fun. Volcanoes and glaciers have combined to create a landscape that is dramatic and raw and the Icelanders know exactly how best to…

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Where to stay in Iceland

Our team has handpicked this collection of properties to give you luxury options in styles to suit any journey.

More luxury accommodation

Torfhus Retreat

Wilderness
£££££

Surrounded by mesmerising Icelandic wilderness, the 25 turf covered houses of Torfhus Retreat blend beautifully into their environment. Each of the traditional style houses has exclusive or shared use of a basalt hot tub – surrounded…

Row of black wooden clad, turf roofed houses of Torfhus Retreat in summer with grass infront and cloudy blue sky.

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City
£££££

The Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel, Reykjavik is a historic hotel housed in the former offices of Iceland’s first shipping company, Eimskipafelag Islands, constructed in 1919.

Hotel Exterior, Radisson Blu 1919 Hotel, Reykjavik, Iceland

Hotel Ranga

Wilderness
£££££

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Alda Hotel Reykjavik

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We were very happy with our two guides -- BorgThor and Magnus. We would absolutely look forward to working with them again and will recommend them to others heading to Iceland.

Iceland

Why Choose Steppes?

Our knowledge and expertise set us apart. So too our curiosity. It is this that drives us to create a journey that is really bespoke to you, all the while ensuring we travel and operate sustainably.

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