Sólheimar Eco-Village is an established community in southern Iceland, founded in 1930 by Sesselja Sigmundsdóttir as a self-sustaining settlement based on social equality, environmental responsibility, and education. It is one of the world’s earliest intentional eco-villages and remains an active residential community today.
The village is culturally significant for its long-standing commitment to sustainability and social inclusion, particularly its integration of people with and without disabilities living and working together. Environmentally, Sólheimar is known for its early adoption of renewable energy, organic farming, recycling, and green architecture, making it an important model in Icelandic ecological development.
Visitors can walk freely around the village to see greenhouses, workshops, animal areas, and sustainable housing. Key visitor facilities include the Græna Kannan Café, which serves organic food produced on site, a small shop selling crafts made by residents, and art exhibitions. Guided tours are available for those seeking deeper insight into the village’s history and daily operations.
Sólheimar is located near Laugarvatn, about 1.5 hours by car from Reykjavík, typically accessed via Route 35 and Route 37. Public transport options are limited, so traveling by car is recommended. There is no general admission fee to enter the village, but guided tours, food, and products are paid for separately on site.
2:00 pm - 11:00 am
Sólheimar Eco-Village is an established community in southern Iceland, founded in 1930 by Sesselja Sigmundsdóttir as a self-sustaining settlement based on social equality, environmental responsibility, and education. It is one of the world’s earliest intentional eco-villages and remains an active residential community today.
The village is culturally significant for its long-standing commitment to sustainability and social inclusion, particularly its integration of people with and without disabilities living and working together. Environmentally, Sólheimar is known for its early adoption of renewable energy, organic farming, recycling, and green architecture, making it an important model in Icelandic ecological development.
Visitors can walk freely around the village to see greenhouses, workshops, animal areas, and sustainable housing. Key visitor facilities include the Græna Kannan Café, which serves organic food produced on site, a small shop selling crafts made by residents, and art exhibitions. Guided tours are available for those seeking deeper insight into the village’s history and daily operations.
Sólheimar is located near Laugarvatn, about 1.5 hours by car from Reykjavík, typically accessed via Route 35 and Route 37. Public transport options are limited, so traveling by car is recommended. There is no general admission fee to enter the village, but guided tours, food, and products are paid for separately on site.
Sólheimar offers a variety of workshops focused on arts and crafts, organic gardening, sustainability practices, and holistic living. Visitors can participate in activities such as pottery, weaving, candle-making, and guided tours of the village.
Yes, visitors can stay at Sólheimar in eco-friendly guesthouses. This allows them to experience the sustainable lifestyle of the community and participate in various activities and workshops.
Sólheimar was founded by Sesselja Sigmundsdóttir on July 5, 1930. She was inspired by her Christian values and the philosophies of Rudolf Steiner, aiming to create a community focused on sustainability and care for individuals with learning difficulties.
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