~ Our story ~
Rooted in history, shaped by family
The farm known as Efri-Ey 2 is located in the historic region of Meðalland in Southeast Iceland. The land has been in the family for generations — first settled by my great-great grandparents, with many of the original buildings later constructed by my grandparents.
The farm was once a lively home to a large family. My father was born and raised here alongside seven siblings, and for decades the land was operated as a traditional dairy and sheep farm. In 2015, the farm left the family’s hands for the first time.
In May 2019, the opportunity arose to bring Efri-Ey 2 back into the family — not only to preserve its history, but to give it new life. With deep respect for the land and its past, the farm has since been carefully rebuilt and reimagined as a place to share this extraordinary location with guests from around the world.
A place shaped by nature and culture
The surrounding landscape tells a powerful story of Iceland’s natural history. The area is marked by vast lava fields formed during the Skaftá Fires of 1783–1784, one of the largest volcanic eruptions in Iceland’s history. These eruptions created the Laki craters — a dramatic 29 km long chain of over 130 craters — events that would go on to affect climate, harvests and livelihoods far beyond Iceland.
Today, the lava fields are covered in soft moss and stand as a striking reminder of the land’s resilience and beauty.
The area is also known for its cultural heritage. The renowned Icelandic painter Jóhannes S. Kjarval spent part of his childhood here, deeply influenced by the surrounding landscapes that would later shape his iconic work.
A family dream
Arctic Exclusive is owned and founded by Ingi Svavarsson, who has led the transformation of the farm with care, craftsmanship and a clear vision. Much of what you see today is built from his own ideas and hands, guided by a strong sense of place and purpose.
At its heart, Arctic Exclusive is a family dream — to continue enjoying this remarkable land together with our small family, while welcoming others who seek the quiet beauty of untouched Icelandic nature. It is a place for those who wish to slow down, breathe deeply and experience the landscape with glacier views, open space and a rare sense of calm.
