Selfoss Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Selfoss, Iceland. Learn about the food scene, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options. Plan your trip today!


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Selfoss, Iceland

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, consider adding Selfoss to your itinerary. This charming town is located in the south of Iceland and offers a combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Selfoss. We’ll also cover the local food scene, culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options. Let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Selfoss

Selfoss offers a variety of attractions for travelers to explore. Here are some of the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • LÁ Art Museum: This museum showcases a range of contemporary art from Icelandic artists. It also houses a café, souvenir shop, and a sculpture garden.
  • Selfoss Library: This library is a great place to learn about Icelandic literature and culture. It offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year.
  • The Turf House at Tyrfingsstaðir: This historical site features a restored turf house from the 19th century. Visitors can learn about the architecture and lifestyle of Icelanders from that time.

Natural Attractions of Selfoss: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Selfoss Waterfall: This waterfall is located in the town center and offers a beautiful view. It’s a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
  • Kerið Crater Lake: This volcanic crater lake is located near Selfoss and offers a unique sightseeing opportunity. Visitors can see the bright blue water and red volcanic rocks.
  • The Golden Circle: This scenic route includes some of Iceland’s most famous natural attractions, including Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Springs, and Gullfoss Waterfall. It’s a popular day trip from Selfoss.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Selfoss

Selfoss and its surrounding areas offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Selfoss to Þingvellir: This route takes you from Selfoss to Thingvellir National Park and offers stunning views of the landscape.
  • Kerið Crater Trail: This trail takes you around the rim of the Kerið Crater Lake. It’s an easy and scenic walk.
  • Mount Hengill: This hike takes you up to the summit of Mount Hengill and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding scenery.

Best Things to Do in Selfoss: Activities and Tours

Selfoss offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Horseback Riding: Iceland is known for its Icelandic horses, and Selfoss offers a variety of horseback riding tours that allow you to see the countryside up close.
  • Northern Lights Tour: Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Selfoss offers a variety of tours that take you to the best viewing spots.
  • Glacier Hike: This tour takes you to the Vatnajökull Glacier, where you can hike, climb, and explore the natural beauty of the glacier.

Week-Long Itinerary for Selfoss

If you’re planning to spend a week in Selfoss, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Selfoss and explore the town center.

Day 2: Take a day trip to the Golden Circle and see Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Springs, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

Day 3: Go hiking on Mount Hengill or take a horseback riding tour in the countryside.

Day 4: Visit the Kerið Crater Lake and explore the surrounding area.

Day 5: Take a day trip to the south coast and see Vik Beach and the Skogafoss Waterfall.

Day 6: Go on a glacier hike or take a Northern Lights tour.

Day 7: Relax in town, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy the local food scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Selfoss

Icelandic cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, lamb, and dairy products. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Selfoss:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lamb Soup: This hearty soup is made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and herbs. It’s a popular dish in Iceland, especially during the colder months.
  • Fish and Chips: Selfoss offers plenty of fish and chips restaurants that serve fresh seafood.
  • Skyr: This Icelandic dairy product is similar to yogurt but has a thicker and creamier texture. It’s often served with berries or honey.

Local Beverages

  • Icelandic Beer: Iceland has a growing craft beer scene, and there are plenty of local breweries to check out in Selfoss.
  • Brennivín: This Icelandic schnapps is made from potatoes and caraway seeds. It’s often served as an aperitif or digestif.

Where to Stay in Selfoss: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Selfoss offers a range of accommodation options for travelers, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Ion Adventure Hotel: This hotel offers a unique experience, as it’s located on the slopes of Mount Hengill. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Hótel South Coast: This hotel is located near Selfoss and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves local cuisine.
  • Captain’s Quarters: This guesthouse is located in the town center and offers cozy rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.

What to Buy in Selfoss: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Selfoss offers plenty of souvenirs and local products that you can bring home to remember your trip. Here are some ideas:

  • Wool Products: Iceland is known for its high-quality wool products, such as sweaters, gloves, and hats.
  • Smoked Fish: Icelandic salmon and trout are known for their world-class taste. You can bring home smoked fish from Selfoss.
  • Handmade Crafts: Selfoss has a vibrant arts and crafts scene, and you can find handmade pottery, jewelry, and textiles in local shops and boutiques.

Local Culture and Customs of Selfoss

Icelandic culture is unique and offers plenty of opportunities to learn about the country’s history and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Respect Nature: Icelanders have a deep respect for nature, and it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles while exploring the countryside.
  • Be Polite: Icelanders are generally polite and reserved. It’s important to say please and thank you and avoid being too loud or demanding.

Best Time to Visit Selfoss

The best time to visit Selfoss depends on what you want to do and see. If you’re interested in outdoor activities, such as hiking and glacier hikes, the summer months (June-August) offer the best weather conditions. If you want to see the Northern Lights, visit in the winter months (November-March).

Do’s and Don’ts of Selfoss

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Selfoss:

Do:

  • Take advantage of the natural beauty and outdoor activities.
  • Try the local food and craft beer.
  • Respect the culture and customs of Iceland.

Don’t:

  • Be too loud or disrespectful in public places.
  • Leave litter or disrupt natural sites.
  • Ignore safety warnings or regulations.

Safety and Health

Iceland is generally a safe and healthy country to visit. Here are some safety and health tips:

Safety in Selfoss

  • Always follow the safety guidelines and instructions given by tour operators or park rangers.
  • Pay attention to the weather conditions and be prepared for sudden changes.
  • Lock your car and don’t leave valuables in plain sight.

Health in Selfoss

  • The tap water in Iceland is safe to drink.
  • Bring warm and waterproof clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
  • Pack any necessary medications and first aid supplies in case of an emergency.

Getting to Selfoss: Transportation Options and Logistics

Selfoss is located about an hour’s drive from Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Selfoss

  • Keflavik International Airport: This is the main international airport in Iceland, located about 100 km from Selfoss.

Bus Stations Near Selfoss

  • Reykjavik Bus Terminal: This is the main bus terminal in Reykjavik, with frequent connections to Selfoss.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Car rentals are widely available in Iceland, and driving yourself is a great way to explore the countryside around Selfoss.
  • Private Tours: Private tours are also available and can be customized to your interests and needs.

How to Get Around in Selfoss

The best way to get around Selfoss is by car or by booking a tour. There are also bike rentals available for those who prefer to travel on two wheels.

Where to Go Next from Selfoss: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning to continue your travels in Iceland, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to consider. Here are some ideas:

  • Reykjavik: Iceland’s capital city is only an hour’s drive from Selfoss and offers plenty of cultural attractions and gastronomic experiences.
  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: This stunning glacier lagoon is located about 3 hours’ drive from Selfoss and is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
  • The Blue Lagoon: This geothermal spa is located about an hour’s drive from Selfoss and offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Conclusion

Selfoss is a hidden gem in Iceland that offers a combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re interested in hiking, exploring museums, or trying local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Selfoss. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this charming town.