Friðheimar
About Friðheimar
Friðheimar is one of Iceland’s most unique attractions, a family-run greenhouse farm where tomatoes grow all year round in the middle of the cold Icelandic countryside. Located near Reykholt in South Iceland, Friðheimar is both a working greenhouse and a restaurant, offering visitors an unforgettable dining experience surrounded by vibrant tomato plants.
The concept behind Friðheimar is simple but remarkable: using Iceland’s geothermal energy and natural light, the farm grows fresh, juicy tomatoes despite freezing winter conditions outside. This creative blend of technology, sustainability, and hospitality has made Friðheimar one of the most popular stops on the Golden Circle route.
Here, visitors can see how Icelanders turn geothermal power into innovation, and enjoy a warm bowl of tomato soup made from the same tomatoes growing right beside their table.
The Story Behind Friðheimar
Friðheimar was founded by the husband-and-wife team Knútur Rafn Ármann and Helena Hermundardóttir, who combined their passion for horses, horticulture, and hospitality into one eco-friendly experience. The name “Friðheimar” means “peaceful world,” which perfectly reflects the atmosphere of the place.
What began as a small family farm has grown into one of Iceland’s best-known sustainable tourism spots. The greenhouses are powered by natural geothermal heat from the nearby borehole, and the plants are illuminated with special lights during the dark winter months to ensure continuous growth.
Each year, Friðheimar produces about one ton of tomatoes every day, supplying restaurants and grocery stores all across Iceland.
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The Friðheimar Experience
A visit to Friðheimar is about more than just tomatoes, it’s a full sensory experience.
The Greenhouse Tour
Visitors can explore the bright, warm greenhouse filled with rows of green vines and ripening tomatoes. Informative displays explain how geothermal heating, natural pollination by bumblebees, and advanced irrigation systems work together to sustain the plants.
The Restaurant
The on-site restaurant is one of the highlights of any Golden Circle trip. Tables are set among the tomato plants, surrounded by greenery and warm light. The signature dish is their tomato soup served with freshly baked bread, which has become an Icelandic classic. You can also try tomato-based cocktails, fresh pasta, and even tomato ice creamfor dessert.
The Shop and Tasting Bar
The small shop offers homemade products such as tomato jam, salsa, chutney, and sauces. Guests can sample different items and bring a piece of Icelandic greenhouse life home with them.
The Horses of Friðheimar
Next to the greenhouse, the family runs a horse farm that breeds and trains Icelandic horses. During summer, they host short riding demonstrations and offer a look into Iceland’s strong equestrian culture.
Sustainability and Innovation
Friðheimar is a great example of Iceland’s commitment to sustainable living. The entire greenhouse is heated by geothermal water from the ground, and the lighting system uses clean electricity from renewable sources.
Water used for irrigation is recycled through a closed system, and bumblebees are used for natural pollination instead of chemicals. This combination of green technology and organic methods makes Friðheimar a leading example of sustainable agriculture in Iceland.
The Atmosphere of Friðheimar
Friðheimar feels like stepping into another world, one filled with warmth, color, and the scent of fresh tomatoes. Outside, Iceland’s cold wind blows across the lava fields, but inside, everything is green and alive.
It’s not just about food; it’s about creativity and sustainability. Friðheimar shows how Icelanders have learned to use the earth’s natural energy in harmony with nature, turning a challenging environment into a thriving oasis.
Whether you come to taste, learn, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, Friðheimar is a place that leaves you inspired, a must-visit stop on any Golden Circle adventure.