Guesthouse Vatnsholt

The hotel offers a unique and memorable experience, characterized by its remote farm setting that provides exceptional opportunities for Northern Lights viewing away from light pollution. Guests consistently highlight the cozy accommodations, the warmth of the friendly staff, and the inviting common areas as key aspects of their stay. This tranquil retreat is particularly well-suited for sightseers exploring the Golden Circle and South Coast, couples seeking a peaceful getaway, and families looking for a relaxed environment with outdoor activities. It's also an ideal choice for peace-seekers and those specifically hoping to witness the aurora borealis. To make the most of your visit, guests recommend planning to dine on-site or bringing your own food due to the secluded location, and be sure to take advantage of the complimentary hot beverages available in the main building.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of appealing facilities and amenities that enhance the guest experience, particularly its welcoming common areas. The lobby features a convenient free coffee machine offering coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, which guests greatly appreciate. A dedicated game area is a popular spot, equipped with pool tables, a foosball table, and even darts, providing entertainment and a social atmosphere. There's also a comfortable TV/music room with ample seating for relaxation. Outdoors, the property boasts a playground for younger guests and is home to beautiful Icelandic horses, adding to the charm of the farm setting. These communal spaces foster a sense of community and provide excellent opportunities for guests to unwind and connect.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the accommodations to be very clean and well-maintained, contributing to a comfortable stay. Rooms are described as warm and cozy, with many praising the comfortable beds that ensure a restful night's sleep. While deluxe and family rooms are noted for being spacious, many standard rooms and cottages are considered small, sometimes lacking sufficient space for luggage. Bathrooms in the cottages are often described as compact, though functional. Some older apartment units could benefit from updating and have experienced issues with heating or initial cleanliness. Guests occasionally mention thin walls leading to noise, but the hotel thoughtfully provides earplugs to mitigate this, along with slippers and eye masks for added comfort.

Dining & Food Quality
The on-site restaurant is a significant convenience, especially given the hotel's remote location, as there are no communal kitchen facilities available for guests. Many reviews highlight the delicious food served, noting it is freshly prepared and includes popular options like pizza and a good daily fish special. Feedback on breakfast is mixed; some guests enjoy the variety and freshness, while others describe it as a cold buffet or mention issues with frozen bread. A standout feature is the complimentary access to a free coffee machine in the common area, providing unlimited coffee, tea, and hot chocolate throughout the day, which is highly valued by guests.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's remote farm setting is a major draw, offering a quiet and peaceful escape with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Its secluded nature makes it an exceptional spot for Northern Lights viewing, away from urban light pollution, with many guests successfully witnessing the aurora during their stay. The location is strategically convenient for exploring the Golden Circle and the South Coast, being approximately a 10-minute drive from the Ring Road and a short distance from Selfoss. Guests appreciate the ease of access despite its rural feel, though some navigation apps might suggest less ideal routes, it's generally well-connected. Ample free parking is available on the property, making it convenient for guests traveling by car and providing a secure base for regional excursions.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and accommodating nature. Guests frequently describe them as polite, kind, and attentive, contributing significantly to a welcoming atmosphere and making visitors feel very much at home. They are noted for being quick to respond to guest requests, whether it's providing extra supplies or assisting with property maintenance like salting walkways during colder periods. Many guests highlight the staff's proactive approach, including personally alerting them when the Northern Lights are visible, which greatly enhances the overall experience and creates memorable moments. The check-in and check-out processes are generally described as easy and smooth, further contributing to a positive and hassle-free stay from arrival to departure.

Additional Information
The property offers a distinctive farm stay experience, allowing guests to enjoy a unique countryside environment, complete with the presence of Icelandic horses on-site, which many find charming. A thoughtful touch that guests appreciate is the provision of earplugs, slippers, and eye masks in the rooms, which helps ensure comfort and a good night's sleep, especially given potential noise from thin walls or early morning light. While some accommodations are in separate cottages or barracks, the main building serves as a central hub for common facilities and social interaction. In some instances, guests have received complimentary upgrades to different room types or guesthouses due to overbooking or technical issues, showcasing the staff's commitment to resolving problems and ensuring guest satisfaction even under unforeseen circumstances.