Farmhotel Efstidalur, Golden Circle

Experience Icelandic farm life at the Farmhotel Efstidalur in the middle of the Golden Circle. Generations of the same family have lived on this land since 1750, and the current owners—four siblings—come from a long line of dairy farmers running the farmstead alongside the hotel. Located within the Golden Circle, the hotel is just 10 minutes from the historic village of Reykholt, home of the storyteller, historian, and politician Snorri Sturluson, one of the most influential Icelanders. Geysir and the geothermal spa of Laugarvatn Fontana are just 15 minutes away, while the massive Gullfoss waterfall is a 25-minute drive.

The hotel offers just about 10 cozy rooms, mixing a rustic country style of wooden slats and woolen textiles with modern touches like chic leather furniture. Double rooms offer either private or shared bathrooms, while triple and family rooms are ideal for larger parties. Both triple and family units have private entrances and patios or outdoor seating areas. Bathrooms come with rainfall shower heads.

Adults and kids alike will love horseback riding tours around the property, where you can catch sight of sheep, cows, and the family dog. The breakfast area has windows onto the dairy, where you can watch cows get milked, and be sure to stop by the ice cream barn to try the famously fresh ice cream and cheeses. Indulge in true farm-to-table dining at the on-site restaurant, or head to the hot tub for a soak under the stars.