Sólheimar Ecovillage

Sólheimar is a unique ecovillage known for sustainability, organic farming, and artisan workshops. It is an inclusive community where people with and without disabilities live and work together, alongside artists, craftspeople, and growers producing handmade goods and organic products. Visitors can explore workshops, greenhouses, exhibitions, and walking paths throughout the village, offering a different perspective on Icelandic community life.

Open All year · Visitor facilities have seasonal hours

Entry Free to visit

Parking Free

Time needed 45–90 min

Why visit?

Discover one of Iceland’s best-known sustainable communities
Browse locally made art, crafts, and organic products
Combine food, culture, and a peaceful walk around the village

What to Experience at Sólheimar

Vala Shop · 15–30 min Browse pottery, candles, artwork, and other products made in the community

Græna Kannan Café · 30–60 min Stop for coffee, cakes, light meals, and refreshments

Artisan Workshops · 20–30 min Discover locally produced ceramics, candles, weaving, artwork, and other crafts

Greenhouses & Gardens · 15–30 min See how food and plants are grown within the community

Walking Trails · 20–60 min Explore paths through the village and surrounding woodland

Exhibitions & Community Life · 15–30 min Learn more about Sólheimar, its residents, and the ideas behind the community

Facilities

Restrooms Available in the main visitor areas.

Accessibility The main visitor areas are wheelchair accessible, although some outdoor paths follow natural terrain.

Café Græna Kannan serves coffee, cakes, light meals, and refreshments.

Shop & Workshops Vala and the community workshops offer handmade crafts, artwork, and locally produced goods.

Accommodation Guest accommodation is available at Sólheimar for visitors who want to stay overnight.

Tips & insights

Visit Vala to browse handicrafts and products made within the community
Stop at Græna Kannan for coffee or a light meal
Allow extra time if you want to explore the workshops and walking trails
Visitor facilities and workshops may have different opening hours, so check current times before visiting
Sólheimar works particularly well as a quieter stop between the Golden Circle’s main attractions

About Sólheimar

Sólheimar was founded in 1930 by Sesselja Hreindís Sigmundsdóttir, who developed the community around ideas of inclusion, education, nature, and meaningful work. Her approach was unusual for its time, particularly her belief that people with disabilities should live and participate fully within a wider community.

Today, Sólheimar continues that philosophy while placing a strong emphasis on sustainability, organic cultivation, renewable energy, arts, and crafts. The village has grown into a diverse community where residents live and work together across workshops, horticulture, hospitality, and other activities.