Selfoss

Selfoss

Selfoss is the largest urban center in the Municipality of Árborg and one of the main commercial and service hubs of southern Iceland. The town lies on the banks of the Ölfusá River, south of Mount Ingólfsfjall, at an important transportation junction connecting the capital area with southern and eastern Iceland.

For centuries, the area was primarily agricultural and part of Sandvíkurhreppur. The name Selfoss originates from rapids in the river below Selfoss Church, named after seals that once frequented the waters.

Urban development began around the construction of the Ölfusá bridge and expanded further with the establishment of the Flóamjólk dairy, which became a cornerstone of local industry during the 20th century.

As the population grew, Selfoss became an independent municipality and later received town status. In the late 1990s, it merged with neighboring communities including Eyrarbakki and Stokkseyri to form the present-day Municipality of Árborg.

Today, Selfoss is one of Iceland’s fastest-growing towns, offering diverse employment, extensive retail services, healthcare, education, and public administration for much of the South Coast.

The town features strong sports and recreation facilities, including indoor and outdoor sports complexes and the popular Selfoss Swimming Pool. Cultural life is active, with festivals, exhibitions, and events held throughout the year.

Thanks to its strategic location, Selfoss is a common base for travelers exploring southern Iceland, with easy access to the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and inland highland routes.

Selfoss combines modern town life with a strong regional identity and continues to play a central role in the development of southern Iceland.