Iceland’s Newest Sustainable Retreat Is Both Stylish & Affordable

The Greenhouse (Gróðurhúsið)

For the people of Iceland, greenhouses have long been a symbol of health, growth, and harnessing the earth’s boundless energy. Now, both Icelanders and travelers can experience that magic in the country’s newest boutique hotel — located just 28 miles south of Reykjavik, The Greenhouse (Gróðurhúsið) brings together the concepts of a nature retreat, remote workspace, and the ultimate treat for sustainable-minded people.

Meet Iceland’s Finest: The Greenhouse Hotel

the Greenhouse Hotel in Iceland

The Greenhouse has already won over locals’ hearts who seek the comfortable refuge of the sundrenched space and its beautiful neighboring river lodge. Not long after passing that first test, the Greenhouse became a magnet for international travelers who want to experience one of Iceland’s finest hotels.

Located en route to Southern Iceland’s most visited natural wonders along the Golden Circle, the Greenhouse hotel is “the perfect spot to take a moment after hiking or biking,” says co-founder and CEO Brynjolfur J. Baldursson. Although the rooftop is yet to be adorned with a sauna, hot and cold plunge pools, and a range of other classic Scandinavian amenities, the hotel is already equipped with plenty of exciting facilities.

food serves in the Greenhouse

There’s a food hall downstairs designed in Iceland’s signature mathöll-style, as well as a cushy rooftop lounge and bar where guests can find everything from Taco Vagninn’s cauliflower wraps to PFC’s southern-style fried chicken. And, if you’re looking for unique gifts that capture the spirit of Iceland, there’s a shop-in-shop marketplace just for that!

It’s Affordable, Too!

The hotel’s upper levels feature 50 hotel rooms, all built with sustainability in mind. Imagine large picture windows overlooking the breathtaking views of the region while you’re nestled in a cozy Nordic minimalism-inspired interior. All of that starts at under $200 a night! That’s right, this gorgeous hotel also has accessible pricing.

Eco-Mindfulness Is at the Heart of the Greenhouse

The Greenhouse reception area

The Greenhouse hotel isn’t just sustainable on paper. It really is the epitome of green thinking. Starting with in-room details like using locally-sourced textiles and materials, all the way to the biodegradable coffee capsules and beauty lotions — this place really cares about preserving mother nature. Not only that, but the building itself is currently in the process of getting certified by BREEAM, a leading environmental validation group.

As for the future of this type of accommodation in Iceland, Baldursson says The Greenhouse and its nearby sister property, Reykjadalur Skáli, are just the beginning. With almost 25 acres of development land, he’s aiming to create a new remote work wellness retreat concept with a focus on the beautiful, great outdoors.