Reykholt & Snorralaug - Street view - ancient and modern
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Reykholt & Snorralaug

4
·517 reviews·Reykholt, Iceland

Reykholt: Where history meets geothermal innovation. Explore Snorri Sturluson's legacy and dine in a unique tomato greenhouse.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Lunchtime

Experience Friðheimar's unique dining.

CrowdHigh
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Reykholt & Snorralaug - Street view - ancient and modern

Reykholt & Snorralaug

Best Time

Lunchtime

Experience Friðheimar's unique dining.

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Reykholt: Where history meets geothermal innovation. Explore Snorri Sturluson's legacy and dine in a unique tomato greenhouse.

4
(517 reviews)

"Dine amidst tomato plants in a geothermal greenhouse, famous for its all-you-can-eat tomato soup."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Friðheimar Early

Reservations are crucial for Friðheimar restaurant; walk-ins may have limited availability.

💧 Snorralaug is for Viewing

Snorralaug is a historical site, not for swimming. Enjoy its history and picturesque setting.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Friðheimar Tomato Greenhouse

Friðheimar Tomato Greenhouse

Reykholt

Dine amidst tomato plants in a geothermal greenhouse, famous for its all-you-can-eat tomato soup.

TikTokInstagram+1
Snorralaug Hot Spring

Snorralaug Hot Spring

Reykholt

Explore the historic 12th-century geothermal pool of Icelandic legend Snorri Sturluson.

Reddit
Fosshotel Reykholt Spa

Fosshotel Reykholt Spa

Reykholt

Relax in a spa with saunas, steam rooms, and outdoor hot tubs, some with private Nordic baths.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Friðheimar in Advance

This unique tomato greenhouse restaurant is a must-visit, but reservations are essential, especially for the full experience. Walk-ins are sometimes available, but booking ahead guarantees your spot. TikTok+1

Understand Snorralaug's History

While Snorralaug is a historic hot spring, it's now a protected site and not for swimming. Appreciate its significance to Icelandic legend Snorri Sturluson, but don't expect to take a dip. Reddit

Best Times

When
Lunchtime
Why
Experience Friðheimar's unique dining.
Crowd
High
When
Daytime
Why
Explore historical sites and greenhouses.
Crowd
Medium
When
Evening
Why
Potential for Northern Lights from spa.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

ADD THIS RESTAURANT TO YOUR ICELAND ITINERARY RIGHT NOW 🍅 😍 Obsessed with Fridheimar restaurant in Reykholt, Iceland! #icelanditinerary #icelandtravel #restaurant #farmtotable #fridheimar #greenhouse #iceland #famousrestaurant #bestfood #tomatosoup #viral #icelandichorses #travelfoodie #buratta #pasta #travelaesthetic #fyp
@wheretonextyall
1.8K likes • 38.9K views

🎯 Book Friðheimar Early

Reservations are crucial for Friðheimar restaurant; walk-ins may have limited availability. TikTokInstagram

💧 Snorralaug is for Viewing

Snorralaug is a historical site, not for swimming. Enjoy its history and picturesque setting. Reddit

Obsessed with Friðheimer and it was so fun to take Chacha and my sister — get a reservation well in advance for the full experience (though they do have a walk-in only section as well) 🥰 #iceland #travel #liveabroad #icelandweather #foodiniceland #lifeiniceland #americanabroad #cultureshock #moveabroad #expat #foryoupage #fyp
@lydkerr
934 likes • 17.3K views
Take a look inside our unique stay in Reykholt, Iceland 🇮🇸 5 million stars & the northern lights, straight from your bed?! Count me IN 👀 Who’s ready for the full review?! Let me know in the comments! Follow me on here, TikTok, & YT @jessmannering for travel content! #bubblehotel #5millionstarhotel #reykholticeland #reykholt #visiticeland #exploreiceland #icelandtravel #travellife #worldtravel...
jessmannering
0 likes • 1.7K views

🚗 Explore Nearby Waterfalls

Combine your visit with Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls for a scenic day trip. Reddit

♨️ Geothermal Wonders

Discover Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, near Reykholt. Reddit

Welcome to Reykholt, a blossoming town built around geothermal springs. Home to lush greenhouses, a school, a community center, and various services. Each eatery has its unique charm, like Mika's famous chocolate. Experience dining in a tomato greenhouse at Friðheimar, enjoy horse shows and shop farm-fresh products. Pick berries straight from the farm at Kvistum. Reykholt, part of the Golden Circl...
southiceland
118 likes • 2.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Friðheimar Early

Reservations are crucial for Friðheimar restaurant; walk-ins may have limited availability. TikTokInstagram

💧 Snorralaug is for Viewing

Snorralaug is a historical site, not for swimming. Enjoy its history and picturesque setting. Reddit

🚗 Explore Nearby Waterfalls

Combine your visit with Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls for a scenic day trip. Reddit

♨️ Geothermal Wonders

Discover Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring, near Reykholt. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(517 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Reykholt for its unique historical sites like Snorralaug and the innovative culinary experience at Friðheimar. The geothermal greenhouse restaurant is a standout, offering delicious food in a memorable setting. Some find Snorralaug to be more of a historical curiosity than an attraction for swimming.

"Great history of how the wealthy lived long ago and had to have their little bit of luxury in having an outdoor pool. The water is quite cold these days, but was not back when Snorri used it for himself."

Scott Elmer

"Is a very small pot with a traditional mini turf house. Is more for a picture is very dirty the water, I recommend the place clean more often. Dont entrance to swim."

Lorena Vargas Ramos

"Very quaint and tranquil area. We enjoyed walking around and reading about Iceland’s history as well as looking inside the church. The only reason I gave this 4 stars is because you cannot actually swim in the hot spring. We went expecting to go swimming as it is listed as a hot spring, but as it’s a historical site so you cannot actually go in."

sam sch

What People Like

Unique dining at Friðheimar
Historical significance of Snorralaug
Geothermal greenhouse ambiance

What People Dislike

Snorralaug not for swimming
Water in Snorralaug is cold

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Reykholt is about a 1.5-hour drive from Reykjavik. Take Route 1 (Ring Road) north, then turn onto Route 50 and follow signs for Reykholt. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area. Reddit

Public transport options to Reykholt are limited. While buses may serve nearby towns like Borgarnes, a car is highly recommended for flexibility and to visit attractions like Friðheimar and Snorralaug. Reddit

Driving conditions can vary, especially in winter. Always check road.is for current conditions and be prepared for potential snow or ice. Summer driving is generally straightforward. TikTok

Yes, Reykholt is a popular day trip destination from Reykjavik. You can easily combine it with other Golden Circle attractions or West Iceland sights. Reddit

Yes, there are parking facilities available at major attractions like Friðheimar and near Snorralaug. Parking is generally free, but it's always good to check signage. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Snorralaug is a historical site and generally free to view. However, you cannot swim in it as it's a protected area. Reddit

Friðheimar offers an all-you-can-eat tomato soup buffet, typically around 3,500 ISK per person. Other dishes like burrata and pasta are also available. Prices can vary, so check their website. TikTokInstagram

There is no entrance fee to walk through the greenhouse area at Friðheimar, but dining there is the primary experience. Instagram

It's advisable to book spa treatments and access to the spa facilities at Fosshotel Reykholt in advance, especially if you want to guarantee a specific time slot or private Nordic bath. Instagram

While there aren't many formal guided tours specifically for Reykholt itself, you can find tours that include it as part of a larger West Iceland or Golden Circle itinerary. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Reykholt is rich in history, home to Snorralaug and the church associated with Snorri Sturluson. You can also explore nearby natural wonders like Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, and Deildartunguhver hot spring. Reddit

No, Snorralaug is a historical site and is not open for swimming. It's a protected area where you can learn about its past. Reddit

The best way is to book a table for lunch and enjoy their famous tomato soup buffet. They also offer other tomato-based dishes and desserts. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, families can enjoy the unique dining experience at Friðheimar and exploring the historical sites. The nearby waterfalls also offer scenic beauty for all ages. TikTok

Nearby activities include visiting the Settlement Museum in Borgarnes, exploring lava caves like Vídgelmir, and enjoying the natural beauty of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Friðheimar is the most famous restaurant in Reykholt, known for its unique setting inside a tomato greenhouse and its delicious tomato soup. TikTokInstagram+1

Friðheimar is renowned for its all-you-can-eat tomato soup, served with fresh bread. They also offer dishes like burrata, pasta, and tomato-themed desserts. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, Friðheimar is entirely vegetarian, focusing on tomato-based dishes. Their menu is perfect for vegetarians and vegans. Instagram

While Friðheimar is the main draw, other eateries in Reykholt offer unique experiences, such as Mika's famous chocolate. Instagram

Friðheimar sells some of their products, including tomato jam and tomato plants, which you can purchase to take a taste of Iceland home with you. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the unique interior of Friðheimar greenhouse, the historic Snorralaug, and the charming church. The surrounding landscapes and nearby waterfalls also offer great photo opportunities. TikTokInstagram

Yes, if you're lucky and conditions are right, you might see the Northern Lights. Staying at Fosshotel Reykholt with its outdoor hot tubs offers a chance for magical photos. Instagram

Daytime offers the best natural light inside the greenhouse, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for photos. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed at most sites. However, always be respectful of other visitors and any posted signs. Instagram

A versatile lens for landscapes and interiors is recommended. If hoping for Northern Lights, a wide-angle lens with a fast aperture and a sturdy tripod are essential. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families will find Reykholt engaging, especially with the unique dining experience at Friðheimar. Kids often love the novelty of eating inside a greenhouse and the delicious tomato soup. TikTok The nearby Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls offer beautiful scenery for short walks and exploration, providing a natural playground. While Snorralaug is not for swimming, its historical significance can be an interesting story to share with children. Reddit

Consider booking a stay at Fosshotel Reykholt if you're looking for family-friendly accommodation with spa facilities. The hotel's amenities can provide relaxation for parents and fun for kids. Remember to pack layers of clothing, as Icelandic weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, Reykholt is a pilgrimage site. The Snorralaug, the 12th-century hot spring of Snorri Sturluson, is a direct link to Iceland's medieval past and its most famous literary figure. Exploring the area around the church and Snorralaug offers a quiet contemplation of this historical period. Reddit

Don't miss the Settlement Museum in Borgarnes, a nearby town, which delves deeper into Iceland's settlement history. Understanding Snorri Sturluson's life and times enriches the visit to Reykholt, providing context for the sagas and the development of Icelandic culture. Reddit

🍽️ Foodies & Culinary Adventurers

Reykholt is a must-visit for foodies, primarily due to Friðheimar. This restaurant offers a truly unique farm-to-table experience, serving delicious tomato-based dishes grown on-site using geothermal energy. The all-you-can-eat tomato soup is legendary. TikTokInstagram+1

Beyond Friðheimar, explore other local eateries like Mika's for their famous chocolate. The focus on fresh, local ingredients and innovative use of geothermal resources makes dining in this region a memorable culinary adventure. Booking ahead for Friðheimar is essential to avoid disappointment. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Snorri Sturluson

Reykholt was once the home of Snorri Sturluson, a prominent Icelandic historian, poet, and politician in the 13th century. He is considered one of Iceland's most important literary figures, credited with writing the Prose Edda and the Heimskringla. His presence in Reykholt has cemented the area's historical significance. The Snorralaug, a 12th-century geothermal pool, is a tangible link to his life and times. While it's a protected historical site and not for swimming today, it offers a glimpse into the luxurious amenities available to the wealthy in medieval Iceland. Reddit

Visitors can explore the area around Snorralaug and the nearby church, imagining the life of Snorri Sturluson. The site provides a quiet and reflective experience, allowing you to connect with Iceland's rich cultural heritage. It's a place where history feels palpable, offering a stark contrast to the modern geothermal wonders found elsewhere in Iceland. Reddit

Visiting Snorralaug Today



Today, Snorralaug is a small, turf-covered pool that serves as a historical monument. The water is cold, and swimming is prohibited to preserve the site. However, its quaintness and historical context make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in Icelandic sagas and medieval history. It's a quick but informative visit that adds depth to your understanding of the region. Reddit

Friðheimar: A Geothermal Culinary Gem

Friðheimar is not just a restaurant; it's an experience that showcases Iceland's innovative use of geothermal energy. Located in Reykholt, this unique establishment operates within a tomato greenhouse, where tomatoes are grown year-round thanks to the earth's natural heat. The ambiance is truly special, surrounded by lush greenery and bathed in natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. TikTokInstagram+1

The star attraction at Friðheimar is their all-you-can-eat tomato soup buffet. Served with freshly baked bread and various toppings, it's a hearty and delicious meal that highlights the quality of their homegrown tomatoes. Beyond the soup, they offer other tomato-infused dishes, including a popular burrata and a delightful tomato cheesecake for dessert. The farm-to-table concept is executed flawlessly here, offering a taste of Iceland's agricultural ingenuity. TikTokInstagram

Reservations are highly recommended for Friðheimar, as it's a very popular spot, especially for lunch. While they do have a walk-in section, booking in advance ensures you don't miss out on this unforgettable dining experience. It's a must-visit for foodies and anyone interested in sustainable agriculture and unique culinary adventures. TikTokInstagram

Exploring West Iceland's Natural Wonders

Reykholt serves as an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of West Iceland. Just a short drive away are the stunning Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. Hraunfossar is unique as it cascades out of a lava field, creating a series of delicate streams, while Barnafoss is known for its powerful, turbulent waters. These natural spectacles offer fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to connect with Iceland's raw beauty. Reddit

Another geothermal marvel nearby is Deildartunguhver, Europe's most powerful hot spring. Witness the immense power of the earth as boiling water erupts from the ground. While you can't swim here, its sheer force is impressive. For those interested in geology, the Vídgelmir lava cave offers an opportunity to explore Iceland's volcanic underworld. Reddit

These natural attractions, combined with the historical and culinary experiences in Reykholt, make for a well-rounded visit to West Iceland. Whether you're drawn to history, food, or breathtaking landscapes, this region has something to offer every traveler. Reddit

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