Reviews of Private Retreat by Arctic Circle
Skólastígur 3, 640 Húsavík, Iceland

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Reviewed: 24 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewI wish I lived here all of the time. My family and I loved it.
Nothing
Thank you so much! You’re welcome back anytime – we’d love to host you and your family again.
Reviewed: 21 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewEverything! Spacious, clean, central (literally next to the school), parking,self check in
Thank you! Happy to hear you enjoyed the space and location – glad it was a perfect fit!
Reviewed: 5 August 2025 · Stayed in August 2025
Verified reviewRien
Dirty, bad smell, far too expansive for what it is
Dear Victor, We are sorry to hear that our property did not meet your expectations. However, your review does not reflect the experience of the vast majority of our guests, who consistently rate us between 8 and 10. Your comment about cleanliness and smell is surprising and unfounded, as we thoroughly clean and prepare the home before every stay — and no similar issues have ever been reported. You stayed during the peak season in Húsavík, where prices are high across the town, even for basic accommodations. We strive to offer great value and a comfortable experience, and we’re proud of the positive feedback we receive from other travelers.
Dear Victor, We are sorry to hear that our property did not meet your expectations. However, your review does not reflect the experience of the vast majority of our guests, who consistently rate us between 8 and 10. Your comment about clean… Show more
Reviewed: 31 July 2025 · Stayed in July 2025
Verified reviewGreat location and comfortable home.
The stairs to the upper bedrooms are quite steep - the place would not work for some people.
Reviewed: 10 July 2025 · Stayed in June 2025
Verified reviewThe location near the centre of town is terrific. Easy walking distance to the port and some great restaurants. The property is very comfortable and has everything you need - it was great to use the washing machine and dryer after several days on the road.
Just be careful of the multiple trip hazards. The bedrooms have a raised board at each doorway and the stairs require really careful attention. The worst was the step down to the laundry area which blends in with the floorboards and is difficult to pick up - it led to a pretty bad fall.
Reviewed: 6 July 2025 · Stayed in July 2025
Verified reviewReviewed: 4 July 2025 · Stayed in July 2025
Verified reviewEverything. The location, the key arrangements but most importantly the proper try itself was stunning. A wonderful quirky house. Watch the staircase but just wow. We loved it.
Nothing at all really, we couldn’t access the TV. We wee having a few drinks and wanted to check something - no issue!!
Thank you for the great review. Glad you enjoyed the house and your time in Húsavík.
Reviewed: 15 October 2024 · Stayed in October 2024
Verified reviewVery homy, clean and great vibes
Thank you! Hosting you was a delight, and you’re always welcome to return!
Reviewed: 8 October 2024 · Stayed in September 2024
Verified reviewThe place was stunning. Evrything was clean, comfy and Railis gave us a warm welcome. Well equiped with a washing machine and dryer and nearby the whale watching spots. We felt immediately like home.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm really glad you felt at home and enjoyed the amenities. It was a pleasure hosting you, and I'm happy to hear that you had a great time exploring the whale-watching spots. Hope to welcome you back in the future!
Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm really glad you felt at home and enjoyed the amenities. It was a pleasure hosting you, and I'm happy to hear that you had a great time exploring the whale-watching spots. Hope to welcome yo… Show more
Reviewed: 23 September 2024 · Stayed in September 2024
Verified reviewAll was perfect
Thank you!
Reviewed: 20 September 2024 · Stayed in September 2024
Verified reviewI didn't expect this house to be a two-story villa, especially given the affordable price. The area of this house is super large. The host is friendly as well, allowing flexible check-in and check-out time.
Too many flies being around made us a little annoyed, but the flaws do not overshadow the overall excellence.
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled that you enjoyed the villa and had a great stay. We’d love to host you again in the future! Best, Private Retreat by Arctic Circle
Reviewed: 15 September 2024 · Stayed in September 2024
Verified reviewBeautiful location in central Husavik. Sunset was spectacular. Very well equipped and comfortable place to stay. One of the nicest we've ever stayed in. Very central location.
Not an issue for us, but more of a heads up for the lesser mobile - the bedrooms are upstairs and the staircase is at a very steep angle. It added to the ambience of the place, but with the bathroom downstairs, full mobility is essential.
Thank you for your kind feedback. I'm glad you enjoyed the location, sunsets, and comfort of the property. Your note about the staircase is appreciated and will be useful for future guests. It was a pleasure to host you, and I hope to welcome you again in the future.
Thank you for your kind feedback. I'm glad you enjoyed the location, sunsets, and comfort of the property. Your note about the staircase is appreciated and will be useful for future guests. It was a pleasure to host you, and I hope to w… Show more
Reviewed: 15 September 2024 · Stayed in September 2024
Verified reviewReviewed: 10 September 2024 · Stayed in September 2024
Verified reviewEverything you could want in a well cared for property in a great location.
Nothing
Thank you! I just wanted to say thank you again for being such a great guest! I really appreciated how clean and respectful you were during your stay. You’re welcome back anytime! Safe travels, and take care!"
Reviewed: 12 August 2024 · Stayed in August 2024
Verified review