Selfoss, nestled along the beautiful banks of the Ölfusá River, is the largest town in South Iceland, with a welcoming community of around 8,000 residents as of 2025. Just 57 kilometers (35 miles) southeast of ReykjavÃk, this vibrant town has become a cherished hub for commerce, industry, and tourism in the region. Its rich history intertwines with modern amenities, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that draws in both locals and visitors alike. Whether you're exploring its charming streets or enjoying the natural beauty surrounding it, Selfoss offers a unique blend of experiences that resonate with the heart.
Historical Roots and Development
The story of Selfoss begins in the late 19th century when Iceland embarked on a remarkable journey to enhance transportation by building a suspension bridge over the Ölfusá River in 1891. This bridge represented a beacon of hope for the community, significantly improving connectivity and nurturing trade in the region. However, in 1944, tragedy struck when the original bridge collapsed under the weight of two heavy trucks trying to cross at the same time. Fortunately, a new bridge was constructed and opened in 1945, allowing the town to rebuild and continue its vital transportation links, reflecting the resilience and determination of the Icelandic people.
The beginning of Selfoss town
In the early 20th century, a vibrant community began to flourish around the bridge, drawing people together and fostering a sense of belonging. Entrepreneurs took the initiative to establish a trading post, which soon blossomed into cooperative societies, dairy producers, and meat processing plants. This groundwork was vital for the town's development and growth. Among these local endeavors, the dairy company MS (Mjólkursamsalan) emerged as a significant pillar of the economy, playing a pivotal role in Iceland's dairy industry. The town’s fortunate location near abundant dairy farms and emerging industries not only attracted new residents but also inspired a period of rapid urban development, particularly from the 1950s to the 1980s. This transformation was a testament to the community's resilience and shared aspirations for a thriving future.
Geographical Significance
Selfoss is a welcoming stop for travelers exploring the stunning landscapes of Iceland. Conveniently located along the Ring Road (Route 1), it sits about 11 kilometers (7 miles) inland from the beautiful southwestern coast. This blend of coastal accessibility and quaint inland charm offers a perfect setting to rest and recharge. It’s an ideal base for those wanting to experience the wonders of nearby attractions, including the breathtaking Golden Circle and the many natural treasures of South Iceland. Whether you’re passing through or staying a while, Selfoss provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for every traveler.
Modern-Day Selfoss
Today, Selfoss is a lively town that thoughtfully integrates its history with the comforts of contemporary life. As you stroll through the town center, particularly along Austurvegur Road, you’ll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere filled with a variety of shops, restaurants, and services that cater to both locals and visitors alike. The community thrives on a blend of agriculture, industry, and tourism, with a heartfelt emphasis on the dairy industry, which continues to play a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of many families.
Selfoss' New City Center: A Blend of Heritage and Modernity
Selfoss has long been one of Iceland's key regional hubs, yet it lacked a true city center—a focal point that could serve as the heart of the town. To address this, an ambitious urban redevelopment project was launched, aiming to create a vibrant, multi-functional downtown area that blends historical charm with modern convenience.
A Vision for the Future Rooted in the Past
The development project, which broke ground in 2018, is not just about expanding the town's commercial and residential footprint; it is also a celebration of Icelandic architectural heritage. The vision is to recreate a historic-style downtown, inspired by Iceland’s architectural past, including the reconstruction of iconic buildings that were once demolished. This approach aims to provide Selfoss with a unique and nostalgic character, reminiscent of Iceland’s early 20th-century town centers.
A Multi-Phase Transformation
The first phase of the project, completed in 2020, introduced 5,200 square meters of commercial space, housing a mix of shops, cafés, and restaurants that have already begun to transform the town’s atmosphere. However, this was just the beginning. The master plan includes a total expansion of 25,000 square meters, incorporating a variety of elements to ensure a lively and functional urban core. The upcoming phases will feature shops and boutique stores, modern office spaces, residential apartments, municipal service offices, and public squares and pedestrian-friendly streets.
A Thriving Hub for Locals and Visitors
The new city center is designed to attract both locals and tourists, offering a welcoming space for social gatherings, business opportunities, and cultural experiences. The inclusion of green spaces, walkways, and public areas ensures a lively yet relaxing environment, making it an appealing destination for both day-to-day life and leisure.
As Selfoss continues to grow, this project marks a significant step in defining the town’s identity, ensuring that it remains an essential stop along Iceland’s popular travel routes while also enhancing the quality of life for its residents. With a strong blend of heritage and progress, the new city center is set to become a shining example of thoughtful urban development in Iceland.
Educational and Recreational Facilities
Selfoss truly understands the importance of a solid educational foundation, which is why it takes pride in its diverse educational offerings. From preschools to elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, and even a college, the town is dedicated to providing residents with valuable learning opportunities right at their doorstep.
When it comes to recreation, Selfoss offers an abundance of options to keep everyone engaged and active. The Selfoss Swimming Pool is a beloved community hub, featuring inviting outdoor pools, thrilling water slides, relaxing hot tubs, and a soothing sauna. For those who enjoy sports, the town boasts well-kept facilities for football, basketball, and horse riding, ensuring that there’s something for every enthusiast. Plus, the nearby Hellisskógur forest and the towns iconic Ingólfsfjall mountain present wonderful hiking trails, inviting nature lovers to connect with the breathtaking Icelandic landscape. It’s clear that Selfoss is a place where both education and recreation come together to nurture the community's well-being.
Cultural and Community Events
In Selfoss, the community spirit truly shines through, especially during the numerous events and festivals that fill the calendar each year. One of the most cherished occasions is the "Summer in Selfoss" festival, which takes place every August. This wonderful celebration brings locals together to honor their culture with music, arts, and activities that everyone can enjoy as a family. These gatherings not only help build a sense of pride among residents but also warmly welcome visitors from all over the country, creating connections that enrich everyone’s experience.
Accommodation and Amenities
Visiting Selfoss can be a wonderful experience, and it’s great to know that there are many accommodation options available to suit different needs and preferences, from cozy hotels to welcoming guesthouses and inviting campsites. One standout choice is Gesthús Selfoss, where you can find a charming campsite and RV park that welcomes you year-round.
They truly care about your comfort, providing a dedicated service center complete with restrooms, hot showers, and a spacious dining area where you can gather with friends or family. You’ll also find a fully equipped kitchen to prepare meals, and to help you stay connected, there’s free Wi-Fi in public areas.
For those looking to unwind, hot tubs are available for a small fee, adding a little extra relaxation to your stay. Plus, the campsite’s location is convenient; you’ll be just a short walk away from the town center, the local swimming pool, and various restaurants, making it easy to explore and enjoy what Selfoss has to offer.
Accommodation Options in and around Selfoss
Whether you are looking for luxury, comfort, or budget-friendly lodging, Selfoss has a variety of accommodation options to suit different travel styles. Some of the best-rated options include:
Hotel Selfoss: Nestled by the Ölfusá River in the heart of Selfoss, Hotel Selfoss offers 139 well-equipped and stylish rooms. Guests can indulge in the Riverside Spa, featuring an Icelandic sauna and relaxation areas, or dine at the Riverside Restaurant, which provides a unique culinary experience with spectacular views. The hotel also boasts excellent facilities for functions, meetings, and conferences.
Hotel South Coast: Located adjacent to the new city center of Selfoss, Hotel South Coast is an ideal base for exploring South Iceland. The hotel features 72 modern rooms, including deluxe options and wheelchair-accessible accommodations. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a wellness center and are within walking distance to various shops and restaurants.
Gesthús Selfoss: Gesthús Selfoss provides 22 cozy wooden bungalows, each equipped with private facilities and a kitchenette, perfect for travelers seeking simplicity and comfort. For those desiring more luxury, fully equipped premium two-bedroom summerhouses with private hot tubs are available. The property also offers a well-regarded camping ground with amenities like hot showers, a kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and hot tubs. Its central location ensures easy access to the town's swimming pool, restaurants, and shops.
Guesthouse Lambastadir: Situated just 7 miles east of Selfoss on Highway 1, Guesthouse Lambastadir is a modern, family-owned farm guesthouse. The property features eleven comfortable rooms, each with a private bathroom. Guests can relax in the outdoor hot tub and sauna, ideal for viewing the northern lights during winter nights. The guesthouse is well-located for visiting attractions such as Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss, Geysir, and various waterfalls. Additionally, charging stations for electric cars are available on-site.
Transportation and Accessibility
Selfoss's strategic location along the Ring Road ensures excellent connectivity. The town is approximately a 50-minute drive from ReykjavÃk, covering a distance of about 57 kilometers (35 miles). For those relying on public transportation, bus number 51, operated by Strætó, runs multiple times daily between ReykjavÃk's central bus station (Mjódd) and Selfoss, offering a budget-friendly and convenient travel option.
Exploring the Surroundings
Selfoss stands as a gateway to some of Iceland's most breathtaking natural wonders. Its close proximity to the Golden Circle offers effortless access to awe-inspiring sites like the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, the captivating Geysir geothermal area, and the historic Þingvellir National Park. Beyond that, the enchanting black sand beaches of the south coast, along with the stunning Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, and the charming village of VÃk are all within a short drive, inviting you to embark on unforgettable day trips that promise to inspire and rejuvenate.
Selfoss is not just a pit stop on your journey along Iceland’s Ring Road; it's a vibrant town that weaves together a fascinating history, a thriving culture, and stunning natural scenery. This welcoming community invites you to dive deep into the essence of South Iceland, offering a blend of modern comforts and local charm. Whether you're simply passing through or planning to linger a while, Selfoss promises a heartfelt embrace and an abundance of adventures just waiting for you to discover.
