Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Árfells Ice Cream
$Ice Cream
🕑 15-30 minutes👶 Perfect for all ages, from toddlers to teens. Even picky eaters will find something to love, while adventurous kids can try uniquely Icelandic flavors like licorice or Icelandic skyr.
About
Árfells Ice Cream is a charming local favorite in Selfoss serving up authentic homemade Icelandic ice cream in creative flavors you won't find back home. This casual, family-friendly stop is perfect for treating the kids after a day of exploring Iceland's natural wonders, with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it popular with both locals and visiting families.
Highlights
- ✓Authentic homemade Icelandic ice cream with unique local flavors
- ✓Generous portion sizes that satisfy hungry kids
- ✓Friendly, English-speaking staff happy to help visitors
- ✓Traditional flavors like licorice and skyr alongside classic options
- ✓Convenient location in Selfoss, perfect for Golden Circle day trips
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit during early afternoon rather than after dinner when tour buses sometimes stop by, making it crowded.
- 2.Don't be shy about asking for samples. Staff are friendly about letting kids taste unusual flavors before committing.
- 3.Bring cash if possible. While most Icelandic shops take cards, smaller establishments sometimes have minimum amounts or occasional technical issues.
- 4.Try the traditional Icelandic flavors like rhubarb or bilberry for an authentic local experience the kids will remember.
- 5.The shop is on the main road through Selfoss, making it an easy pit stop when driving the Golden Circle route.
Best Time to Visit
Best visited during summer months (June to August) when the shop is reliably open and ice cream tastes best. Weekday afternoons between 2-4pm tend to be quieter than evenings.
What to Know
This is a budget-friendly treat with very reasonable prices (around $5-8 per serving). Parking is available nearby on the street. Cash is helpful but cards are generally accepted.
Seasonal Notes
Primarily a summer destination, typically open May through September. Hours may be limited or the shop may close entirely during winter months (October to April), so check ahead if visiting outside peak summer season.
Nearby Eats
For a full meal, try Kaffi Krús nearby for family-friendly Icelandic comfort food, or Tryggvaskáli restaurant which offers kid-friendly options and traditional dishes in a casual setting.
More Activities Near Selfoss
Adventure
Seljavallakirkja Church Grounds & Trails
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Seljavallakirkja Church Grounds offers families a peaceful introduction to Iceland's natural beauty through gentle walking trails surrounded by stunning landscapes. This historic site combines cultural exploration with easy outdoor adventure, perfect for families wanting a low-key nature experience without challenging hikes. The tranquil setting provides excellent opportunities for children to spot birds, explore Icelandic flora, and enjoy the fresh air while learning about local heritage.
Museum
Selfoss Toy Museum
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The Selfoss Toy Museum offers a delightful journey through toy history, featuring both vintage treasures and modern playthings that spark nostalgia in parents while captivating children. Unlike many museums, this charming local spot encourages hands-on interaction, allowing kids to actually play with select toys rather than just observe behind glass. It's an affordable, indoor activity perfect for breaking up Iceland's long drives or escaping unpredictable weather.
Cafe
Kaffi Krús
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Kaffi Krús is a warm and welcoming café in Selfoss that serves as the perfect pitstop for families exploring Iceland's Golden Circle route. Kids will love the rich Icelandic hot chocolate and delicious pastries, while parents can enjoy quality coffee and light meals in a cozy atmosphere that genuinely welcomes children without the stuffiness of formal dining.
Library
Bókasafn Árborgar Selfossi, útibú á Eyrarbakka og Stokkseyri
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This modern public library in Selfoss offers a welcoming escape for traveling families, featuring a well-stocked children's section with books in multiple languages, including English. The comfortable reading areas and interactive learning resources provide a perfect rainy-day activity or quiet break from Iceland's outdoor adventures, while regular story time programs (when available) offer a chance for kids to engage with local culture.