Hestheimar

The property offers a unique and memorable stay, distinguished by its setting as a charming horse farm with individual cottages that provide stunning views of the surrounding Icelandic landscape. Guests consistently highlight the peaceful and remote atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle. The accommodations are frequently praised for being spacious and cozy, complemented by the attentive and friendly staff who contribute significantly to a welcoming experience. The comfortable beds are a recurring positive, ensuring a restful night's sleep. This destination is particularly well-suited for nature lovers and couples seeking tranquility, families appreciating the space and unique environment, and road trippers looking for a convenient and scenic stop. To maximize your experience, consider booking one of the cottages for their added amenities and immersive views, and be aware that Wi-Fi connectivity can be inconsistent in some of these more secluded units.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests find the facilities both practical and inviting, particularly appreciating the well-equipped kitchenettes and full kitchens available in the cottages, which often include a stove, dishwasher, coffee machine, and kettle, allowing for convenient self-catering. While some cottages may lack a microwave or specific bowls, the overall provision is highly valued. The property also features a popular outdoor hot tub or Jacuzzi near the reception, providing a relaxing experience even in inclement weather. Common areas in the main building offer comfortable spaces for relaxation, complete with board games and books. Connectivity is a mixed bag; while free Wi-Fi is available, many guests report inconsistent or weak signals, especially in the cottages, often requiring a visit to the main building for a stronger connection. Thoughtful touches like towel warmers in bathrooms and readily available slippers enhance the comfort.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The accommodations are generally lauded for their cleanliness and overall comfort, with many guests describing rooms as cozy, homely, and inviting. Newer sections of the property feature modern and high-tech rooms that are well-maintained. A standout feature for many are the exceptionally comfortable beds, often described as feeling "like sleeping on a cloud," ensuring a restful night. However, some guests have noted minor issues such as occasional crumbs on sofas, stray hairs, or stained furniture, and a few mentioned lumpy pillows or springy mattresses in certain cottages. While the rooms are typically quiet and conducive to relaxation, isolated reports mention a broken heater or a leaking sink in older units. Some main building rooms have an open shower area without a door, which can lead to high humidity and water spilling into the room, and some cottages lack a TV or a luggage stand.

Dining & Food Quality
Guests frequently praise the breakfast offerings, describing them as delicious, very good, and excellent. Served buffet-style, the breakfast provides a wide variety of options, including home-cooked dishes, though some guests noted that popular items like bacon, fruits, and eggs could run out quickly if not refilled promptly. A coffee machine is available for beverages. The on-site restaurant also receives positive feedback for its dinner service, with meals often described as tasty and home-cooked. While the quality is generally high, a few guests felt the dinner was expensive and occasionally rushed, with limited food choices if not arriving early for the buffet. Complimentary coffee and tea are available in shared areas, though some found the coffee to be diluted.

Location & Accessibility
The property's remote and isolated location is a significant draw, offering a peaceful and quiet escape amidst stunning natural surroundings and beautiful views. It serves as an excellent base for exploring the Golden Circle and the South Coast, including popular attractions like waterfalls, Vik, and the Black Beach, and is conveniently located near Selfoss for grocery shopping. Guests appreciate the ample and easily accessible parking. However, accessibility to some cottages can be challenging due to steep and rocky pathways from the parking area, which can make transporting luggage difficult. During winter months, some guests advise that the roads leading to the property can be unprepared, with sheet ice and snow drifts, suggesting the use of a 4x4 vehicle with studded tires for safer travel.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high commendation for their exceptional friendliness, warm welcome, and attentiveness. Guests frequently describe them as very kind, helpful, and eager to assist with any inquiries or needs, contributing significantly to a positive and homely atmosphere. The overall service is noted for its efficiency and the staff's willingness to go above and beyond to ensure guest comfort. For instance, the laundry service is praised for its meticulous attention to detail, with clothes returned neatly packed and folded. While the vast majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive, one isolated review mentioned a negative experience where staff became less helpful after a complaint about a room issue, leading to a perception of dismissal. However, this appears to be an anomaly compared to the widespread praise for the staff's dedication.

Additional Information
A unique aspect of the property is its setting on a working horse farm, allowing guests to enjoy the presence of Icelandic horses and even friendly farm cats that occasionally visit the cottages, adding a charming, homely touch. The remote location and minimal light pollution make it an excellent spot for viewing the Northern Lights, with many guests reporting successful sightings directly from their accommodations. While the property offers horse riding tours, guest experiences vary, with some praising the calm horses and engaging guides, while others found the tours lacked structure. Guests should be aware of the hotel's policy requiring shoes to be removed upon entering the main building, with slippers provided for convenience. This detail, along with the opportunity to interact with the farm animals, contributes to the distinctive and memorable stay.