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Eirð - A unique lakefront retreat

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This is the layout of our one hectare private peninsula at lake Gislholtsvatn.
Eirð is designed to combine the in- & outside experience w south facing windows
Exterior
Living area
There is nothing quite like a cosy fire on an icelandic winter day :)

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
10 bedrooms0+ bathroomsSleeps 20430 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Hot tub
  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Near Hella, Suðurland
  • Urridafoss Waterfall
    ‪23 min drive‬
  • Caves of Hella
    ‪24 min drive‬
  • Kerid Crater
    ‪59 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

10 bedrooms (sleeps 20)

Bedroom 1

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 4

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 5

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 6

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 7

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 8

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 9

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 10

2 Single Beds

6 half bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 4

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 5

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 6

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 7

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 8

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 9

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 10

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 11

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Eirð - A unique lakefront retreat

Eirð is an exclusive water front retreat on Iceland s south coast. It is uniquely located on a peninsula by lake Gislholtsvatn, providing extra privacy and connection to nature.

Eirð consists of one original building, a new larger building and three spacious guest houses, mixing together an old scandinavian lodge style with modern scandinavian architecture.

The original building features three bedrooms, a large kitchen, a library with a wood burning stove, a dining room with a direct south facing lake view, a living room off the dining area with a fireplace and two bathrooms with a shower.

The new large building features 4 bedrooms, each with its own bathroom with a shower and a kitchenette with a Nespresso coffee maker, a refrigerator and small freezer..
This new building also features a large room for yoga sessions or seminars, with small kitchenette and two bathrooms. This large room is rented out separately.

Each of our 3 guest houses has two single beds (can be turned into one double), a bathroom with a shower, and a kitchenette with a refrigerator and small freezer. A Nespresso coffee maker are found in each of our guesthouses.

In total Eirð currently has 10 bedrooms and is therefore well suited for up to 20 people.

Eirð itself offers 2 kayaks (to use directly on Gislholtsvatn lake) free of charge.

Within 30-70 minutes from Eirð you will then find major tourist attractions such as: Geysir, Gullfoss, Mount Hekla, the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano (modern visitor center at Hvolsvöllur), river rafting on the river Hvítá, horse back riding, Kerið crater and Þórsmörk highlands.

At Eirð you will find a more detailed guide to restaurants and tourist attractions in the vicinity. This guide can be emailed to you as a pdf upon order confirmation, to help with the planning of your trip.

Property manager

Svava Björk Hjaltalín Jónsdóttir
Premier Host

Languages

English, German

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Rangárþing ytra

Located in Rangárþing ytra, this villa is on the waterfront. Skalholt Historical Site and Turf House are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Urridafoss Waterfall and Hella Golf Course. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as ice skating.
Map
Near Hella, Suðurland

What's nearby

  • Urridafoss Waterfall - 23 min drive - 18.8 km
  • Caves of Hella - 24 min drive - 18.5 km
  • Turf House - 52 min drive - 46.9 km
  • Kerid Crater - 59 min drive - 55.4 km
  • Secret Lagoon - 60 min drive - 57.3 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Restaurant Fosshotel Hekla - ‬35 min drive
  • ‪söluskálinn björk - ‬18 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Eirð - A unique lakefront retreat pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Eirð - A unique lakefront retreat?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Eirð - A unique lakefront retreat?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Eirð - A unique lakefront retreat located?

Located on the waterfront, this family-friendly villa is 11.5 mi (18.4 km) from Caves of Hella and 11.7 mi (18.8 km) from Urridafoss Waterfall. Hella Golf Course and Lava Centre are also within 20 miles (32 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 32 out of 32 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 32 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Anthony G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful Stay
We had a wonderful stay at the Erid Retreat. The location was stunning, remote and peaceful. The Retreat was more than able to handle our large group. With private and shared spaces we had the choice to come together and also enjoy our privacy. Although we did not have time to enjoy the peace of the yoga room as we would have liked, it looks like a fantastic facility that we look forward to enjoying on our next visit.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sherry P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent Stay overall!!
It was an awesome setup! Perfect for our group of 15. All had individual bedrooms! I wish the bedrooms in the main house were not so hard to get to especially for elderly peeps and also wish they had their own bathrooms instead of having to go downstairs! The road to get to the property was a bit far from the main road but that’s to be expected as we were in Iceland and distances are just part of the terrain! The rest was awesome though! The hosts Svava and Thor were awesome! Responded quickly to all questions. Even delivered a new grill the next day as the old one was not working properly! Overall the stay was great. Would definitely book again. Centrally located to all attractions in South Iceland!! Would have been too far to attractions like blk sand beach, Vik etc..if we stayed in Reykjavik!! Thank you for letting us stay in your beautiful property, Svava and Thor!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alyssa D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Transformative Experience at Eird - Wow!
We recently spent a week at Eird hosting a large group yoga retreat, and our experience exceeded all expectations. From the moment we arrived, the serene atmosphere and stunning natural beauty set the perfect tone for reflection and growth. The accommodations were wonderful, offering comfortable lodging with both privacy and communal spaces. The attention to detail created a warm and inviting environment. Our hostess, Svava, made our stay exceptional, going above and beyond to meet our needs. Overall, our week at Eird was transformative, fostering personal growth, group bonding, and a deep appreciation for nature. We left feeling rejuvenated and connected to ourselves and each other. I wholeheartedly recommend Eird for anyone seeking a retreat experience that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. We’re already planning our next visit!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joyce S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful stay! Property is simply gorgeous.
Wonderful stay at Eird for a group yoga retreat. The property was absolutely perfect. The location was beautiful and serene, and the house is as beautiful in person. Thor and Svava were good at answering any questions and were very accommodating! Highly recommend staying at Eird!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family vacation
The property was beautiful and perfect for my fiance and I’s families to stay together at while in the country for us to get married! It’s about an hour and a half away from Vik and an easy drive away from a lot of the sights in the Golden Circle. Most of us preferred the peace and quiet of the property however - it was just as pretty as a lot of the Golden Circle sights but without the crowds. The hosts were also so kind and communicative! We would love to come back with a larger group sometime. It was absolutely beautiful here.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sigrun G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Annual Retreat in Iceland
I recently spent an incredible week at Eirð Retreat with my entrepreneurial clients, all amazing women. Svava, the fantastic lady who takes care of everyone, was exceptional. Her cooking is absolutely delicious, and she's always helpful, ensuring that all guests feel pampered and super happy. I've come to this place multiple times, and each visit is better than the last. Eirð Retreat is truly special, and I highly recommend it for a rejuvenating and delightful stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christopher S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Eirð Retreat
A Tranquil Icelandic Retreat! We recently had the pleasure of staying at Eirð Retreat situated by a serene lake in Iceland, and we couldn't be more delighted with our stay. The placr itself was impeccably clean, well-maintained, and equipped with all the amenities we needed for a comfortable stay. The modern design blended seamlessly with the rustic charm of the location, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. We especially appreciated the spacious living area and fully stocked kitchen, which made it easy to prepare meals and enjoy quality time together. Our host - Svava was incredibly accommodating and responsive. The location was ideal – secluded enough to offer complete privacy and tranquility, yet conveniently close to several must-see destinations. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat to reconnect with nature, this Vrbo property is an absolute gem!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Osk D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Magical place
Eird is a magical place surrounded by beautiful Icelandic nature where you will experience tranquility and comfort like no other. I cannot recommend this place more and we cannot wait to return for another yoga retreat next year.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

shanley d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
DREAM COME TRUE
This property was beyond our wildest dreams. It was absolutely perfect and beautiful in every way. It was super clean and organized and was perfect for our group of 19 adults! There’s everything you would need for cooking together and there are so many cool little touches that made our stay extra special! (Like a cozy robe for every guest) I can’t recommend this space enough. The host was very responsive and helpful and went above and beyond before our stay to help us find a caterer etc. The house is also on a GORGEOUS lake and is only an hour from so many beautiful natural sites. I was a little confused before we attended about the bed situations, but basically it is 2 single beds in each room that can be pushed together to make a double bed. The host arranged each room ahead of time based on our guests which was lovely. PERFECT INCREDIBLE AMAZING!! Book it!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shane M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Tranquil Icelandic Retreat – Perfect for Group Focus and Relaxation
Our group of 15 recently stayed at this secluded Icelandic property, which was a remarkable experience. Far from the city's distractions, its tranquility and comfort made it ideal for our focused mastermind sessions. Every room blended privacy and luxury, with plush beds ensuring restful nights. The meeting space, equipped with all essentials, was perfect for productivity, fostering creativity in a peaceful setting. Common areas like the well-equipped kitchen and cozy living spaces were great for unwinding and bonding. The property's remote location, while far from town, allowed us to connect with Iceland's natural beauty deeply. It was a true retreat, facilitating both relaxation and focused work. In short, this property is a gem for those seeking a peaceful, productive getaway in Iceland. Perfect for families or working groups, it offers a unique experience of comfort and focus amidst Iceland's serene landscape.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matilda G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Just a paradis site for training
A unique site, just by a lake, privately in icelandc nature. Designed and created with heart in all details. Such dear offer to be able to come and enjoy the land and the impeccably cosy interiours. Just highest score! Just wonderful. We will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Taylor A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The most magical winter wonderland
We stayed at Eird to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary with friends and family, and it couldn't have been any more perfect. We were lucky enough to have a fresh snow that blanketed the lake and the grounds. The lake was frozen so we were able to shovel out our very own ice skating rink, AND we got the northern lights! They were very faint, but still very very cool. Svava and Thor answered any and all questions we had leading up to the trip, and the house was just absolutely immaculate. I would 100% recommend Eird for any large group retreats in summer or winter. We cannot stop talking about how magical it was!!!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

lakisha t.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Balloons and Lagoons
My 40th was brought in with fabulous people and a great time in an amazing stay! Thank you
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kelli F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing retreat to unwind and enjoy quality time
This home was exactly as advertised. It’s in a beautiful location, very nicely furnished and stocked for a large group, and a perfect retreat for a relaxing stay. We stayed with a group of 20, with adults and young kids, and everyone had a lovely time. I would highly recommend this home for anyone looking for a nice place to relax and enjoy Iceland.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Craig T., Christchurch, New Zealand

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Pure magic
Words are not enough to describe the beauty of Eirð, it is set amongst stunning scenery and the property was perfectly equipped for us to host our photography retreat. The kindness of Svava, and her incredible food is something none of us, or our guests will ever forget. Thank you so much for such a wonderful experience, We will most definitely be back! Craig, Charlotte & Alicja.
Stayed 13 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sara S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our Iceland Home- Wonderful Stay!
Words cannot even describe how much we loved hosting our retreat here. The accommodations, the landscape, and the overall welcomed feeling we experienced were truly exceptional. So much so we are planning to come back again and again. Svava and Thor have created a wonderful space that feels like our home away from home. A magical place to stay in Iceland.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Taylor J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Johnson family
We had the most incredible stay in our entire lives at this property. We had a group of 20 and it was the best trip everyone’s ever had. It was beautiful- photos don’t do it justice. It’s so relaxing and peaceful, each room has so much space so it doesn’t feel packed with a large group. Svava and Thor were extremely attentive and communicative. Watching the northern lights outside this property with all our closest people will be a night we never forget, thank you.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect Place
We came to Iceland and stayed at Eiro as a yoga retreat and absolutely every single one of the 12 were thrilled with Eiros. The accommodations were perfect. Great kitchen - fully equipped - beautiful yoga practice space. We will be back - it made our retreat one that would be remembered for years to come. Thor was lovely - approachable - helpful. Can't say enough- about this beautiful place!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kristín Birna Ó.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A bubble of peace and wellbeing
Choosing Eirð Retreat for a company trip organised by Ad Astra Travel was a great decision. Working with the owners and hosts was an absolute pleasure and every and any request was quickly handled with such warmth and ease. The location itself gets guests immediately into a different mindset and they somehow ease into a state of relaxing and enjoying themselves. I was even asked to change a bit the plan we had in place to make sure that there was enough time to enjoy the beautifully decorated premises and the surrounding nature. Thank you Svava for your hospitality and I hope to be able to use your beautiful Eirð Retreat soon again. Kristín Birna Óðinsdóttir Owner and founder Ad Astra Travel
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Harriette B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family trip
Everyone, 11- 87, enjoyed all the tmes we spent there. There was some sunshine and also rain and clouds. We enjoyed it all. Many thanks!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cherie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Peaceful and quiet but convenient as well
Our recent stay at Eird Retreat was wonderful! The property itself is quite beautiful and feels very remote (there is absolutely no noise except for bleating lambs across the lake), but notwithstanding our group of seven found it very convenient to all the sights on the south coast and golden circle. Thor and Svava were very easy to communicate with and responded promptly to any questions we had. The main cabin provided a nice gathering spot in the mornings and evenings for our three families, while the separate guest houses and rooms offered us privacy for sleeping. Highly recommend this special place. Thank you Thor and Svava!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sabrina C., Cincinnati, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
New Favorite Place
This place was an absolute dream. It was so tranquil and beautiful. Each house is like an individual hotel room and they all have great views and are gorgeous inside. Not the mention the hosts are great and so nice. Everyone loved staying here it was amazing 10/10 recommend!!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gisela S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful retreat
A very beautiful retreat with an amazing host and excellent cook. Svava made our stay amazing! Thank you!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Emma B., El Paso, Texas

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful
Very nice location and property. Great for a family reunion.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nathalie V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Super glücklich diese Unterkunft gefunden zu haben!
Wir waren im Juni 2022 mit 12 Personen (10 Erwachsene, 2 Kinder) im Eird Retreat von Thor und Svava zu Gast. Für so eine große Gruppe war es nicht einfach eine Unterkunft zu finden, umso glücklicher waren wir dieses Prachtstück gefunden zu haben. Inmitten der Natur, direkt am Wasser, umgeben von Schafen und Pferden und mit Blick auf kleine Berge. Das Haupthaus war perfekt, um in geselliger Runde den Tag zu starten und bei Kaminknistern und mit wohltuenden Whirlpoolgängen abzuschließen. Die Gästehäuser haben sich als toller Rückzugsort für zwischendurch erwiesen. Aus sämtlichen Häusern war der Ausblick phenomenal - idyllisch und entschleunigend. Thor und Svava waren zu jeder Zeit erreichbar und haben uns bei jeder noch so kleinen Angelegenheit mit großer Hilfsbereitschaft zur Verfügung gestanden. Besser hätten wir uns unseren Familienurlaub nicht vorstellen können. Ein ganz großes Dankeschön vom Herzen dafür :-) We stayed at Thor and Svava's Eird Retreat in June 2022 with a group of 12 (10 adults, 2 children). It wasn't easy to find an accommodation for such a large group, so we were really happy to find this one. In the middle of nature, direct to the water, surrounded by sheep and horses and with a view of small mountains. The main house was perfect for starting the day in good company and ending it with a crackling fireplace and a soothing whirlpool. The guest houses have proven to be a great retreat for in between. The view from all the houses was phenomenal - idyllic and decelerating. Thor and Svava were available at all times and were very willing to help us with any matter, no matter how small. We couldn't have imagined our family vacation any better. A big thank you from the bottom of our hearts :-)
Stayed 10 nights in Jun 2022

About the host

Hosted by Svava Björk Hjaltalín Jónsdóttir

Host profile image
My name is Thor and together with my wife Svava Björk, we run Eird Retreat.

My wife is an architect and she is the one who designed the entire remodeling of Eirð retreat, which has been going on since the beginning of 2018. Svava Björk, myself and our 6 children have all been directly involved in the renovation work :)

I work internationally as an executive coach and serve as the CEO of a group of companies called the Strategic Leadership Group. We design and run large leadership development projects for multinational corporations.

We are both passionate about creating unforgettable experiences for people. We do this through Eird, but also through architectural design, seminars and retreats.

Why they chose this property

Eirð retreat started as a dream, many many years ago. A dream of working with leaders on grounding themselves as human beings, while creating powerful and sustainable strategies for the organizations they lead.

It was always meant to stand by a lake to enjoy the calming energy that comes with a body of water. It was also meant to have an Icelandic forest (bushes ;) ) and privacy.

When we found this location, we felt the gods had smiled upon us and bought it immediately. For us Eirð is a project that will continue to grow and develop over the next few years, as we add meditation spots, yoga facilities, more bedrooms, a sauna etc. So stay tuned on updates :)

What makes this property unique

The visitors we have had so far have talked about the lake view and the tranquility as the unique aspects of Eirð. You really feel connected to Icelandic nature here :)

Another benefit is Eird's strategic location, as there are so many interesting attractions nearby.

Finally, the Scandinavian look and feel of Eird, along with its 9+ bathrooms with a shower make us quite unique.

Languages:

English, German

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests