When you think of Iceland, images of towering waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and steaming geothermal pools probably come to mind. Tomatoes? Not so much. But as it turns out, Fridheimar Tomato Farm, nestled in the Icelandic countryside, is the unexpected star of the Golden Circle. I hadn’t planned to visit a greenhouse on my Icelandic adventure, but sometimes the best travel moments are the ones you don’t see coming.
Spoiler: this detour was about more than just tomatoes, it was about finding a slice of warmth and comfort in a land better known for its rugged extremes. Also, it involved some of the best soup I’ve ever had. Yes, soup. Stick with me.
How I Ended Up at a Tomato Farm (I also hate raw tomatoes btw)
The detour to Fridheimar wasn’t planned. I was midway through the Golden Circle tour, on my way to yet another stunning waterfall, when the guide announced a lunch stop at a “family-run tomato farm.” Now, I wasn’t exactly brimming with excitement. A farm? For tomatoes? While Iceland’s natural wonders were just a stone’s throw away? But hunger and curiosity have a funny way of working together, so I went along with it.
As the bus pulled up, I was greeted by the sight of a large greenhouse glowing softly in the midday light. It looked more like the setting for a sci-fi movie than a farm, but I was intrigued. Plus, it was warm inside, and after spending the morning in the brisk Icelandic air, that was enough to win me over.
Stepping Into a Green Wonderland
The moment I stepped into the greenhouse, I felt like I’d been transported to another world. Rows upon rows of vibrant tomato plants stretched as far as the eye could see, their branches heavy with ripe, glistening fruit. The air was warm and humid, a stark contrast to the icy wind outside—and filled with the earthy, slightly sweet scent of tomatoes.
A friendly staff member welcomed us and began explaining how the farm works. Fridheimar uses geothermal energy to heat the greenhouse and natural Icelandic water to hydrate the plants. It’s a marvel of modern agriculture, made even more impressive by the fact that it’s happening in a country where the ground is frozen for much of the year. I had a moment of existential reflection: If Iceland can grow tomatoes this well, what’s my excuse for killing every houseplant I’ve ever owned?
The Tomato Soup That Changed My Life
After the tour, we were led to the café area, where the main event awaited: tomato soup. Now, I’m not usually one to wax poetic about soup, but this wasn’t just any soup. It was a steaming bowl of fresh, flavorful perfection, served with crusty bread that practically begged to be dunked.
As I took my first bite, I realized why this place had become a must-visit stop for travelers. The tomatoes grown just a few feet away—were bursting with flavor, their sweetness perfectly balanced by a hint of acidity. Paired with the bread and a dollop of sour cream, it was comfort food at its finest.
By the time I finished my bowl, I was seriously considering asking for the recipe. (Spoiler: they wouldn’t give it to me. Apparently, some secrets are too sacred to share.)
A Quirky Touch: Tomato-Themed Everything
The café at Fridheimar leans heavily into its tomato theme, and honestly, I loved it. Tomato plants hang from the ceiling, tomato-based cocktails are on the menu, and there’s even tomato ice cream if you’re feeling adventurous (I wasn’t).
The People Who Make It Happen
What really struck me about Fridheimar wasn’t just the tomatoes or the soup—it was the people behind it. The farm is run by a family who clearly love what they do, and their passion is infectious. During the tour, they spoke about their commitment to sustainability, the challenges of farming in Iceland, and the joy of sharing their produce with visitors from around the world.
There’s something incredibly inspiring about people who pour their hearts into what they do, especially when what they do involves growing tomatoes in a country better known for its glaciers. It’s a reminder that even in the most unlikely places, you can find innovation, resilience, and really good soup.
Why This Unexpected Stop Stole the Show
You’d think that in a country filled with waterfalls, geysers, and lava fields, a tomato farm would pale in comparison. But Fridheimar proved me wrong. There’s something uniquely charming about stepping out of Iceland’s wild, untamed landscapes and into a cozy greenhouse filled with life, warmth, and the promise of a good meal.
It wasn’t just about the tomatoes, it was about slowing down, savoring the moment, and appreciating the simple pleasures of travel. In a way, Fridheimar encapsulates what I love most about exploring new places: the chance to discover the unexpected, to connect with people and their stories, and to walk away with memories (and maybe a jar of green tomato jam).
Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit on the Golden Circle
If you ever find yourself in Iceland, do yourself a favor and visit Fridheimar. Whether you’re a foodie, a plant enthusiast, or just someone in desperate need of a warm meal, it’s a stop that’s sure to leave an impression.
And if you’re not already convinced, let me leave you with this: I came to Iceland for the waterfalls, the glaciers, and the Northern Lights. But years later, as I sit down to write about my trip, the first thing I wanted to talk about was a bowl of tomato soup. That should tell you everything you need to know.