Region
South Iceland
80 km from Reykjavik
Solheimar — Iceland's Pioneering Eco-Village
A thriving sustainability community where organic farming, creative workshops, and social inclusion come together in the Icelandic countryside.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Population
~100
South Iceland • Eco-village
Solheimar is a unique eco-village in South Iceland, founded in 1930 by visionary educator Sesselja Sigmundsdottir as a nurturing home for children with special needs. Over the decades it has grown into an internationally recognised model of sustainable living and social inclusion. Today, about 100 residents live and work together, running organic greenhouses heated by geothermal energy, creative craft workshops, and a tree nursery. The community produces candles, ceramics, woven goods, and organic food — much of it available to visitors in the village shop and cafe. Located near the Golden Circle, Solheimar offers travellers a meaningful alternative to conventional tourist stops and a glimpse into how sustainability and community can flourish together.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Population and community data based on Solheimar official information and regional statistics.
Sources to check
Population
~100
Inclusive eco-community
Known for
Sustainability
Organic farming and craft workshops
Top Attractions near Solheimar
Solheimar Greenhouses & Organic Gardens
Tour the geothermally-heated greenhouses where organic vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow year-round using sustainable methods.
Craft Workshops
Visit the candle-making studio, ceramics workshop, woodworking shop, and weaving studio where community members create handmade goods.
Solheimar Shop & Cafe
Browse locally made crafts, organic produce, and unique gifts. The cafe serves meals prepared with ingredients from the community's own gardens.
Thingvellir National Park
Just 30 km north, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features the rift valley between tectonic plates and the historic site of Iceland's first parliament.
Geysir Geothermal Area
About 45 km east, watch Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes and explore the steaming geothermal landscape of the original Great Geysir.
Skalholt Cathedral
A historic church site about 15 km away that served as one of Iceland's two episcopal sees for over 700 years, with a small museum and concert series.
How to Get to Solheimar
From Reykjavik: Drive east on Route 1, then turn onto Route 35 toward Laugarvatn. Solheimar is signposted off Route 35. The 80 km journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes on paved roads.
Golden Circle Addition: Solheimar sits between Thingvellir and Geysir, making it easy to add to a Golden Circle itinerary. No regular public transport serves the village, so a rental car is recommended.
Best Time to Visit Solheimar
Summer (Jun–Aug): All workshops and the cafe operate at full capacity. The organic gardens are at their most productive, and guided tours run regularly. The long days make it easy to combine with Golden Circle sightseeing.
Winter (Nov–Mar): The greenhouses continue producing year-round, and workshops remain active. Visitor hours may be reduced, so check ahead. The community's warm atmosphere is especially appealing during the dark winter months.
Planning help
Solheimar FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.