The lively town of Selfoss is a gateway to the South Coast. Icelandic Route 1, also known as the Ring Road, passes through Selfoss and takes you past some of the most spectacular scenery in Iceland. Discover dramatic volcanic landscapes, rolling green farmland, jagged mountains, shimmering glaciers and black-sand beaches.
Things to do in Selfoss
The LAVA Centre is packed with interactive exhibits on earthquakes and volcanoes. Watch the educational documentary featuring incredible drone footage and experience the power of a Richter four magnitude earthquake in the seismic simulator.
Venture off the Ring Road and visit Keldur, a medieval wood-frame farmhouse with a moss-green turf roof. It’s one of the best-preserved examples of Icelandic turf house architecture and has been repurposed as a living history museum.
Iceland towns often feature geothermal swimming pools and Selfoss is no exception. Swim in the heated outdoor pools and relax in the sauna. For an off-the-beaten-track experience, hike to the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River. Geothermal activity heats the water and creates a series of warm bathing pools. Soak in the hot springs while taking in the stunning views.
Hike to Kerid Crater and peer into the 55-metre deep, perfectly circular crater. The cobalt-blue water looks dramatic against the rust-coloured rocks and green grassy slopes. Selfoss is also a great base for outdoor activities, including guided glacier hikes, snowmobile tours and ATV adventures.
Selfoss serves some of the tastiest Iceland hot dogs in the country. Local stalls will tempt you with warm white buns stuffed with premium-quality Icelandic lamb sausages and topped with raw and crispy fried onion, ketchup, sweet brown mustard and “remulaoi” mayonnaise.
Getting around Selfoss
Selfoss is compact and easy to get around on foot. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit surrounding sights and attractions and explore the Ring Road at your own pace. The town is a one-hour drive from Reykjavik and 1.5 hours from Keflavík International Airport.