Twelve man-made caves have been discovered on the land of Ægissíða by Hella on the South coast of Iceland. Four of them have been open to the public (guided tours only). The historical site is Iceland’s oldest still standing archaeological remains. Some believe the caves to date even further back than the settlement of the Nordic Vikings.   The wonders of the Caves of Hella include ancient crosses, wall carvings and carved seats.

Mystery surrounds the caves and for centuries people have wondered:

• Are the caves the handiwork of the Celts?
• Were the caves a place of ancient worship?

Caves of Hella offer a great opportunity to explore these historic caves in Iceland.

Ten ideas for recreation in South Iceland:

1. Explore the diverse Skógasafn, one of the most visited museums in Iceland.
2. Visit the historic site of Oddi in Rangárvellir, it’s beautiful church, monument of  Saemundur  the wise (13. century priest and chieftain) and a remarkable archaeological excavation (more man-made caves!)
3. Explore the medieval-type turf farm at Keldur, the only large turf farm that has been preserved in South Iceland. There is an underground tunnel leading from the hall, thought to date from the 12^th or 13th century.
4. Visit the interactive, high-tech exhibition at LAVA Volcano & Earthquake Centre in Hvolsvöllur.
5. Feel amazed by the powerful Skógafoss, then walk up to the top of the waterfall. If you continue upstream, discover the beautiful series of falls in Skógaá river.
6. Walk on for one of the most popular treks in Iceland, across Fimmvörðuháls to Þórsmörk, an oasis of natural birch woods.
7. „Collect“ the waterfalls in South Iceland; other noteworthy falls include Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi, Hjálparfoss and Háifoss.
8. History comes to life in the charming old houses in Eyrarbakki. At Árnessýsla Heritage Museum, it’s easy to picture village life in the past.
9. Visit a exhibition about the traditional Icelandic skyr at Skyrland, in the new Selfoss Center. Take taste as well or go for an organised walking tour.
10. Swim in stunning surroundings in Seljavallalaug or in Landmannalaugar nature baths further inland.

For more information and travel tips, go to www.south.is