Friðheimar — The Tomato Paradise★★
Tomatoes at the Arctic Circle
Between Geysir and Gullfoss lies one of the most surprising experiences of the Golden Circle: Friðheimar, a greenhouse where tomatoes are grown all year round thanks to geothermal energy — right under the Arctic Circle.
The Björnsson family has been running a farm here since 1946, and since the 1990s, around 370 tons of tomatoes are grown annually in heated greenhouses. The plants grow in Icelandic pumice stone soil, are pollinated by European bumblebees (specially imported!), and are supplied with geothermal hot water and artificial light. In winter, when it's dark outside, the greenhouses glow orange — a surreal sight in the barren landscape.
In the adjoining restaurant, the family serves a simple but wonderful menu: Tomato soup (the best you'll ever have — unlimited refills!), freshly baked bread, tomato salad, and a tomato cocktail (with or without vodka). All from their own harvest. Sitting in the greenhouse, surrounded by green tomato plants, while Iceland passes by outside — a unique experience.
Additionally, there is a horse show (in summer): Icelandic horses demonstrate their five gaits, including the famous Tölt. The show lasts about 30 minutes and is included in the entrance fee.
💡 Tipp
Reserve a table at the restaurant — especially in summer, seats fill up quickly. The tomato soup is so good you'll want to refill multiple times. And buy a bottle of the homemade tomato ketchup or tomato sauce as a souvenir from the small shop — they are incredible.
