Theoretical MP2 and B3LYPD3 calculations, as well as experimental matrix isolation infrared spectroscopy studies, were used to investigate the 1:1 complexes formed between glycolic acid and water. Out of five computationally predicted forms of GA⋯H 2 O complex the most stable one was detected experimentally in solid argon. This structure is characterized by two intermolecular OH⋯O hydrogen bonds depicting a six-member ring in which water acts both as a proton acceptor and as a proton donor. Two other structures with the alcoholic OH group acting as a proton donor are also tentatively suggested to be present in solid argon.