Sólheimar Ecovillage

Originally founded in 1930 as an intentional, sustainable community for developmentally delayed people, Sólheimar has grown throughout the last century into a small village. It is home to about 100 residents, with a thriving arts community and a focus on eco-friendly education.

A bit over an hour’s drive east of the capital city of Reykjavik, the Sólheimar Ecovillage is a magical stopping point for visitors and learners of all ages to stay in the simple and lovely Guesthouse, visit the shops/gallery, eat at the scrumptious bakery café, and explore the arts through an on-site candle workshop, a ceramics studio, weaving, carpentry, paper-making workshops, and an herbal workshop making lotions, soaps, and more from local flora.

Volunteers can help with the ecological mission-oriented tasks of the community, such as helping with the harvest, or working in sustainable horticulture projects. There are a variety of workshops, environmental exhibitions, community events, concerts, and trainings throughout the year. The Sólheima Church is serene and interdenominational, and not to be missed for some quiet reflection.

Sólheimar is a unique way to get the opportunity to live immersed for a few days in a sustainable community, and better understand the Icelandic environmental values and artistic beauty.