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A Farm Stop at Efstidalur II

A stop at a family-run dairy farm along the Golden Circle, with homemade ice cream and a look at life on the farm.

TravelSeptember 24, 2019Alfred Hanna

The farmhouse and café at Efstidalur II in Iceland’s Golden Circle.

Experience the essence of Icelandic farm life at Farm Hotel Efstidalur II, a family-run retreat in the heart of Iceland’s Golden Circle. This exceptional destination combines traditional agricultural practices with modern hospitality, offering visitors a unique taste of rural Iceland. From its famed homemade ice cream to its farm-fresh meats and cheeses, Efstidalur II is a must-visit for anyone exploring Iceland’s natural wonders.

A Glimpse Into Icelandic Farm Life#

Efstidalur II provides guests with an authentic opportunity to witness agricultural life in action. The property is a working dairy farm that has been home to the same family for over seven generations. Originally established in the 1750s, the farm’s current operations blend centuries-old traditions with modern hospitality.

The farm features:

  • A restaurant and café serving dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients.
  • Dairy-based delights, including skyr, a rich and creamy Icelandic yogurt enjoyed for nearly 1,000 years.
  • On-site production of farm goods, such as feta cheese and their famous ice cream, made directly from milk produced on the farm.

Farm Hotel Efstidalur II: Family Legacy and Hospitality#

Efstidalur II is managed by four siblings and their families, who inherited the property from their parents. Since taking over, they’ve upheld the farm’s proud traditions while innovating to meet the demands of modern tourism.

Key milestones include:

  • Expanding the property in 2002 to welcome travelers.
  • Opening the restaurant and café in 2013 to showcase farm-fresh culinary delights.
  • Creating a space for visitors to immerse themselves in Iceland’s agricultural heritage.

Why We Enjoyed the Farm Hotel Efstidalur II?#

  1. Proximity to the Golden Circle Located centrally within Iceland’s most popular tourist route, the farm is an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions like Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park.
  2. Farm-to-Table Cuisine The on-site restaurant serves mouthwatering dishes using ingredients sourced directly from the farm, offering an authentic taste of Iceland.
  3. Unique Cultural Experience Visitors can observe dairy farming operations firsthand and sample fresh products like skyr and feta cheese, along with other traditional Icelandic dishes.
  4. Family-Friendly Atmosphere With its warm hospitality and stunning countryside views, Efstidalur II offers an inviting experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Visitor information#

Photographs from the visit#

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Story Tags:IcelandGolden CircleFood & Drink
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