This home (Kaldbakur) and its location are remarkable.
First, the setting: It’s on the Eyjafjörður Fjord and is very near the water with no structures in between. We had snow just before we arrived and the view was incredibly beautiful. The aurora arrived that first night (KP Index of 5) and it was amazing. This location is suitably dark (and beautiful) for aurora photography. So, if you don’t feel like trekking out into the darkness, you can a get nice aurora photos from your house (assuming the right camera and lens).
Every morning, a herd of sleep walks between the home and the water to graze (usually away from the house). In the evening, they head back to wherever they spend the night. It’s quite fun to watch.
Regarding how the hot pot (hot tub) works, it takes roughly two hours to fill. You fill it by turning a key in the kitchen pantry. It is large and deep so you do not need to wait for it to become completely full to get in (saves a little water, too). I’d guess the temperature is around 102-103 F. In other words, perfect for a soak. New hot water continues to feed into the hot pot, maintaining the temperature. It is surrounded by the house on three sides and is therefore protected from wind. After you get out, turn the key in the pantry and the hot pot drains.
The house is nicely decorated in a modern style. Large windows bring the view into every room. It is a lovely place to spend time in.
Would I recommend this rental? Absolutely!