“Our family farm, a journey through generations”
Since 1750’s
Efstidalur Farm dates back to the 1750s, deeply rooted in the heart of Iceland’s Golden Circle area. For over two and a half centuries, the farm is a reminder to the enduring spirit and dedication of the families who have cultivated this land in the past.
Now, under the care of the 7th generation of farmers, Efstidalur continues to thrive, blending tradition with modern sustainable practices.
Read more below!
How it all started
Efstidalur started as a farm with both sheep and cows. Survival was main purpose of farming in the harsh Icelandic climate. All products from the farm were used to feed the family and withstand the cold weather.
In 1702-1712, Árni Magnússon and Páll Vídalín compiled a detailed Register of Estates for the Danish Authorities, exploring conditions of life in Iceland. The Register includes an account ofthe land resources and livestock of the farm of Efstidalur in the time of Einar Narfason. Árni and Páll made this record in 1708.
Life on the farm
Daily life on the farm was shaped by hard work and self-sufficiency. The changing seasons dictated the rhythm of life on the farm. Long summers were used for harvesting hay and building a stock of food. The harsh winters demanded resilience and patience to wait for more friendly temperatures. It was all about survival.
Ultimately, the rise of modern farming techniques gradually transformed life on the farm in the 20th century. Work became more efficient. Back in the days the farm always was a place of warmth, tradition, and Icelandic hospitality. A legacy that continues to thrive today.
Family business
Each generation worked hard to the farm’s growth and success. Traditions and skills passed down from fathers to sons, from mothers to daughters. Today, we find the 7th generation working at the farm. They are the first generation to transform the farm into something more.
Efstidalur is not just a farm anymore. It has opened its doors to visitors from far and wide and welcomes guests to stay the night at the farm and taste homemade products.
1907
The King’s Road got built in the farm’s backyard. The Danish king used the road to visit Geysir and Gullfoss.
1999
Guests can now stay the night at the farm. We have opened our first rooms in our hotel.
2016
The new generation of the family takes over at Efstidalur. They are now leading the farm and the next generation is already growing up.
1750
The family started farming at Efstidalur in the Bláskógabyggð region.
1995
The start of our horse rental for tourists. This is how Efstidalur got involved in tourism.
2012
Opening of our farm-to-table restaurant and ice cream bar.
Efstidalur today
Currently, the Efstidalur farm is run by four siblings. They turned the farm into a place where hospitality and comfort meet the traditional farmlife. Guests can stay the night in the hotel rooms or cottages. Visitors from all of the world find their way to the farm to try the Icelandic products.
The restaurant of Efstidalur lives by the farm-to-table spirit. Fresh from the farm, to your table!
The next generation
The 8th generation of siblings at Efstidalur is around the corner! The kids from Guðrún, Sölvi, Linda and Halla are growing up and helping out on the farm already.
Keeping tradition alive
One of the most important things at Efstidalur is to respect the traditions and skills of our generations before us. To create true Icelandic skyr, produce local products and to be a place of warmth when we are welcoming our guests.
How many family members are running the Efstidalur farm?
There are x members of our family now living and working at the Efstidalur farm.
How did the Efstidalur family get started farming?
Your content goes here. Edit or remove this text inline or in the module Content settings. You can also style every aspect of this content in the module Design settings and even apply custom CSS to this text in the module Advanced settings.
Are Vikings the ancestors of the family?
Your content goes here. Edit or remove this text inline or in the module Content settings. You can also style every aspect of this content in the module Design settings and even apply custom CSS to this text in the module Advanced settings.
Can I meet the family?
Your content goes here. Edit or remove this text inline or in the module Content settings. You can also style every aspect of this content in the module Design settings and even apply custom CSS to this text in the module Advanced settings.