The Forgotten Farmhouse

from

339 €

The Forgotten Farmhouse – A Restored Icelandic Farmhouse Between Nature, Heritage, and Simplicity

Set in the quiet and vast landscapes of South Iceland, The Forgotten Farmhouse is surrounded by open fields and Icelandic horses. Built in 1953 as a family homestead, this holiday house tells a story of resilience and renewal. When the farmers moved to the city in 1962, the house was left to the elements—its walls weathered, its corners imperfect. In 2022, a Swiss family lovingly restored it, keeping traces of its history intact. Today, the farmhouse offers guests a place to pause and reconnect with nature and themselves. Every slightly crooked line is a reminder of the hard work and modest dreams of the original owners.

Designed for simplicity and comfort, the farmhouse has an authentic feel. A fully equipped kitchen and dining area invite guests to cook and share meals together. The bedroom features a double bed, while the living room includes another double bed. For families with infants, a crib can be provided for children up to two years. There is no TV, intentionally. Instead, guests will find coloring books, board games, and a small library—paired with free Wi-Fi for those who wish to stay connected.

As the land belonging to the farmhouse reaches up to the coast, whale-watching might be possible with a little bit of luck. From here, some of Iceland’s most renowned sights are within easy reach. Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls are a short drive away, as are the highlights of the Golden Circle, including Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss, and the Strokkur geyser. Along the South Coast, guests can explore Sólheimajökull glacier, Reynisfjara’s black sand beach, and the village of Vík. Further afield, Þjórsárdalur Valley, the Þórsmörk Nature Reserve, and the Vestmannaeyjar Islands offer landscapes of striking diversity.

It is an ideal retreat for families, friends, or couples looking for shared moments, whether indoors or out in the surrounding nature.

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5/8

SGH Criterias

Sustainability Criteria

- The property and adjacent beach are cleaned twice a year by the owner and their family (last in June, next in December).
- The farmer keeping horses on the land has been asked not to leave any non-organic waste. Some plastic may still appear due to wind and sea conditions.
- Guests are encouraged via the welcome folder to take a bag when walking to the beach and collect any wind-blown litter or plastic they may find.
- No Alaskan lupines – an increasingly problematic invasive species in Iceland – are planted on the property. Any that appear are removed.
- No pesticides are used on the 55-hectare property, which is classified as farmland but used only for horse grazing. This supports high biodiversity, especially birdlife around the house.
- Around 25 hectares between the pasture and the sea are left untouched. A seasonal wetland forms here, providing a quiet, protected habitat for local wildlife.
Conservation
- The Forgotten Farmhouse temperature is regulated by a remote control that adjusts the temperature when unoccupied
- It runs on 80–100% renewable electricity from wind, water, and sun
- The Forgotten Farmhouse is equipped with energy-saving appliances (minimum EU Label Level D)
- Energy-efficient insulation, walls, and windows reduce heat loss
Energy
- Most furniture is made of wood; the doors were handcrafted from natural wood by a local carpenter.
- The floor is poured stone, ceilings are untreated wood, and walls are painted.
- Built in 1953 from stone and wood, the house retains its original form after renovation.
- The architecture respects the natural surroundings and reflects the local building tradition.
- The corrugated metal façade and red paint are typical for Icelandic farmhouses and part of the island’s architectural heritage.
- The house features two rugs: one made of jute, the other of fabric (likely cotton).
- All towels are made from cotton.
- No plastic dish brushes in the kitchen – only wood brushes and natural sponges are used.
Materials
- - A jug is provided for guests to refill drinking water – sourced directly from the mountains visible from the farmhouse and of excellent quality.
  - No plastic bottles are needed, as the water is supplied through a cooperative and is superior to the typical groundwater used in many rural areas.
  - Guests are asked to separate their waste; the welcome folder includes guidance on sorting according to the municipality of Hvolsvöllur.
  - Three outdoor bins behind the house are regularly emptied and recycled by the local waste service.
  - The Forgotten Farmhouse avoids single-use plastics across all areas.
  - Hotel rooms are completely free of single-use plastic, including toiletry packaging.
  - Refillable dispensers are used instead of individual amenity packaging.
  - Products in recycled packaging are preferred.
  - The Forgotten Farmhouse separates waste carefully; collection and recycling are managed by the municipality.
  - The use of compostable coffee capsules is planned.
  - Electrical equipment is properly disposed of or returned.
  - Products are purchased in bulk whenever possible.
  - A composting system has been requested from the local municipality; feedback is pending.
  - Communication and records are handled paperless or paper-reduced (at least 70%).
  - Guest information is provided using recycled paper, wood, or electronic signage only.
Waste
- Towels are changed every three days, bed linen once per stay or upon request.
- No disinfectants are used, except for cleaning door handles.
- Wastewater is collected in a tank, with greywater filtered separately.
- The tank is regularly emptied and managed by the local municipality.
Water