This calm town in southern Iceland sits on the Ölfusá River. It's a gateway to the Golden Circle route and has a geothermal swimming pool popular among locals.
Selfoss, the largest town in southern Iceland, sits along the banks of the Ölfusá river. This commercial center of about 7,000 residents serves as a gateway to many of Iceland's natural areas. In town, you can walk through the newly renovated center with its reconstructed historic buildings, visit the Bobby Fischer Center, or taste traditional Icelandic skyr at the Skyrland Exhibition. From Selfoss, you can easily reach nearby waterfalls like Gullfoss and geothermal sites such as the Strokkur geyser.
Location and Access
Selfoss is located about 50 km east of Reykjavík along Iceland's Ring Road. The town's position makes it a convenient stopping point for travelers exploring the Golden Circle or continuing along the south coast. You can reach Selfoss by car in under an hour from the capital, or take a bus on Strætó route 51 departing from Mjódd station in Reykjavík.
A Revitalized Town Center
In 2021, Selfoss unveiled an ambitious new town center project. Over 30 historic buildings from across Iceland were carefully reconstructed to create a distinctive cultural area. The centerpiece is the Old Dairy, a former industrial building now housing a modern food hall. As you walk the streets, you'll see reconstructed Icelandic buildings from various time periods, now serving new purposes as shops, restaurants, and cultural spaces.
Exploring Local Attractions
The Bobby Fischer Center honors the American chess prodigy who became a citizen of Iceland. You can view memorabilia and learn about Fischer's connection to the country. For a taste of Icelandic culture, visit the Skyrland Exhibition to discover the history of skyr, the protein-rich dairy product that's been part of the Icelandic diet for centuries.
Natural Wonders Nearby
Selfoss is well-situated for exploring Iceland's natural landscapes. Within an hour's drive, you can reach Gullfoss waterfall, the erupting Strokkur geyser, and Þingvellir National Park where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart. The Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls are also accessible as day trips from town.
Where to Stay
Accommodation options in Selfoss range from comfortable hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Hotel Selfoss has river views and a geothermal spa, while Gesthús Selfoss has simple rooms for travelers watching their budget. For a different experience, consider staying at the Klettar Tower Guesthouse in a tower-shaped building just outside town.
Local Flavors
Selfoss has several dining options, particularly in its new town center. The Old Dairy food hall houses multiple eateries where you can sample Icelandic and international cuisine. For a quick local favorite, stop by Pylsuvagninn for an Icelandic-style hot dog. Tryggvaskáli, housed in the town's oldest building, serves dishes focusing on local ingredients.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June to August) brings long daylight hours and milder temperatures, good for exploring outdoor sites. However, this is also peak tourist season. Consider visiting in May or September for fewer crowds while still enjoying reasonable weather. Winter visits offer potential Northern Lights sightings, but be prepared for short days and possible road closures due to weather.
