Europe

Iceland – Culinary indulgence in Húsafell

There are places in Iceland where time seems to stand still. Húsafell, nestled among lava fields and glaciers in the west of the country, is one such place. After hours of driving through rugged landscapes, a green oasis suddenly appears: birch groves, clear rivers, and a handful of houses. Here, everything revolves around tranquility, nature, and, surprisingly, incredibly good food.

Heart of Silence

Húsafell feels almost magical upon arrival. The mountains glow softly in the sunlight, and the sound of water flows everywhere. The Húsafell Hotel is a sleekly designed yet warm retreat. Large windows, bright rooms, and a view that seems straight out of a postcard. What many here call the highlight of their stay: a dinner with Chef Ingolfur Piffl.

Local, Pure, and Surprising

Chef Ingolfur Piffl is a name you’ll remember. He’s one of those chefs who lets his story speak through flavor. At Húsafell Restaurant, he combines traditional Icelandic ingredients with modern refinement. Think lamb from the valley’s farms, local fish, wild herbs, and vegetables from his own garden. His dishes are not only a tribute to nature, but also to the seasons.

Each plate is a work of art, carefully presented without fuss. You immediately sense that this is more than just a meal. It’s an experience completely intertwined with the place itself. The menu changes frequently, especially with the seasons, as all ingredients are seasonal. It’s therefore logical that a seasonal menu with three to five courses is also available. The drinks menu features several signature cocktails and some interesting wines. Plenty of choice.

Chef Ingolfur also makes an appearance. Modest, smiling, and clearly proud of his team. Everything you eat here is locally sourced. Húsafell is a place where gastronomy, nature, and tranquility converge to create something unforgettable.

Wake up among glaciers and birch trees

From your hotel room, you look out over the valleys where wisps of mist drift across the moss. It’s the perfect spot to lace up your hiking boots. The area around Húsafell is a dream for nature lovers: hiking trails lead through lava fields, along rivers, and towards glaciers.

Relaxing hot spring bath

Those who prefer to relax can spend the day in Húsafell’s geothermal pool. The water is soft, warm, and rich in minerals, perfect after a long hike. A peaceful silence reigns, broken only by the splashing of water and the chirping of birds.

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss

A fifteen-minute drive from the village lie the enchanting Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. Hraunfossar isn’t a typical waterfall, but a series of streams that flow like rivers from a lava field. Just a few hundred meters away, Barnafoss, a slightly wilder waterfall, roars. Together they form a breathtaking contrast of beauty and power.