Hrifunes Nature Park

The scenery, with greenery, water, and glaciers in the distance, was impressive. We also liked having a sauna, a well-equipped kitchen, and a crib and high chair for our baby. Still, the stay didn't meet our expectations for the price. The floors seemed uncleaned between guests, and our socks got dirty within minutes. Dust had built up on the bar stools, outlets, and other surfaces. The hot tub took four to five hours of close attention to heat, and we couldn't use it during our three-night stay. The shower pressure was good, but it quickly flooded the bathroom and swung between freezing and scalding. The hand soap smelled unpleasant, so we used dish soap instead. The rough gravel access road had large potholes that could be difficult for some vehicles. We expected some bugs in a natural setting, but found quite a few flies and spiders inside. During a windstorm, we woke to find the exterior door wide open, and the whole house had become freezing cold. I wanted to love this place, and it has potential, but the lack of cleanliness and maintenance made us less comfortable than we'd hoped.

Angelo showed us around the house and was brilliant and kind. Having a sauna ready to use inside the house anytime isn't something you get every day, and the outdoor hot tub was amazing too. Such a great experience.

The property is lovely, which makes this all the more disappointing. I accidentally booked through both Booking.com and Airbnb, then canceled 29 days ahead, one day outside the 30-day policy, because WiFi was limited while I was on a cruise. I explained right afterward, and the owner reassured me that I shouldn't worry and that I'd be refunded once the dates were booked again. Both nights were rebooked, and Booking.com even agreed to waive its commission to help with the refund, but needed official confirmation from the owner. Despite several emails and calls, the owners stopped replying and never followed through on their initial verbal and written promise. I can't recommend a place where the owners go back on their word.

The view is stunning, and we saw the Aurora very clearly even with a half-full moon. The place was big, very clean, and fully equipped. It also has a hot tub, though be aware you need to feed the fire wood every 15 minutes to heat the water. It's an old-fashioned method, but a nice experience. Best place I've stayed in Iceland. Highly recommended.