Snaefellsjökull National Park is one of Iceland’s most well-known natural areas, where breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife and geological wonders form a unique whole. The national park encompasses Snæfellsjökull glacier and vast lava and coastal areas that have fascinated visitors for decades.

Visitor Centres and Services

There are two visitor centres in the area that provide information about the nature, history and most interesting places in the national park. The National Park Centre at Hellissandur is open every day from 09:30–17:00 and the visitor centre at Malarrif from 10:30–16:30. There, visitors can learn about hiking trails, resting places and events related to the area.

Hiking trails and nature experiences

Snaefellsjökull National Park offers a variety of hiking trails that are suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. The trails pass through lava fields, beaches, bird cliffs and historic sites where nature is in the foreground and the experience becomes personal and memorable.

Resting places and education

Resting places within the national park are well marked and offer education about the geology, fauna and  cultural history of the area. There, visitors can stop, enjoy the view and get to know the unique nature of Snæfellsjökull National Park at their own pace.

Whether you are heading for a short hike, a day trip or a longer stay on Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Snæfellsjökull National Park is an essential stop. Further information about opening hours, services and hiking trails can be found at snaefellsjokull.is

Ten Ideas for Leisure Activities in West Iceland

1. Relax in Guðlaug, the geothermal sea bath in Akranes.
2. Visit the Akranes Lighthouses and enjoy their surroundings.
3. Hike up Akrafjall for excellent views over Akranes and the bay.
4. Learn about Hvalfjörður’s wartime history at the
   War and Peace Museum.
5. Walk into Botnsdalur and hike to Glymur waterfall.
6. Visit the Agricultural Museum of Iceland and the Ullarseli Wool Centre in Hvanneyri.
7. Meet the Icelandic goat at Háafell Goat Farm.
8. Explore the Settlement Centre in Borgarnes and its exhibitions.
9. Soak in Krauma Geothermal Baths by Deildartunguhver.
10. Discover Borgarfjörður’s natural and historical sites:
    Grábrók, Hraunfossar and Barnafoss, and Reykholt.

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Þrístapar consists of three small hills on the western side of Vatnsdalshólar, just north of Route 1. The site is known for the last public execution in Iceland in 1830, connected to the Illugastaðir murder case. The hills stand as a stark reminder of a dramatic event that has shaped the legal and cultural history of North Iceland.

The last public execution in Iceland (1830)

On 12 January 1830, the last public execution in Iceland took place at Þrístapar. Agnes Magnúsdóttir and Friðrik Sigurðsson were sentenced to death for the murders of Natan Ketilsson and Pétur Jónsson at Illugastaðir in 1828. The executioner was Guðmundur Ketilsson, Natan’s brother.

Artefacts at the National Museum of Iceland

The axe and chopping block used in the execution of Agnes and Friðrik are preserved at the National Museum of Iceland. A replica of the axe is displayed at Þrístapar, giving visitors a tangible connection to the events.

Literature on Agnes Magnúsdóttir and the Illugastaðir murders

The story of Agnes has been explored in several books:

• Burial Rites by Hannah Kent, published in Icelandic in 2014
• The Authority by Þorgeir Þorgeirsson
• No One May Look Away by Guðlaugur Guðmundsson
• The Story of Natan Ketilsson and Rosa the Poet by Brynjúlfur Jónsson from Minna‑Núpur

Audio guide at Þrístapar

In summer 2024, an audio guide was installed at the site, leading visitors through the history, landscape and artefacts connected to the execution and the lives of those involved.

A visit to Þrístapar is well worth your time

At Þrístapar, the dramatic story of Agnes and Friðrik is presented with clarity and respect. Visitors learn about the last public execution in Iceland, see historical artefacts and gain deeper insight into 19th‑century society, legal history and culture.

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History, nature and cultural heritage

Vatnsdalur and Þingeyri offer a unique connection to nature, history and culture – ideal for anyone interested in Icelandic heritage.

Vatnsdalur – natural gem and setting of an Icelandic saga

Vatnsdalur is a 25 km long valley in Húnaþing vestra, known for its diverse landscape and historical significance. According to Landnámabók, Ingimundur the Old Þorsteinsson settled the area and lived at Hof. The Vatnsdalsvegur road runs through the valley for 40 km, following Vatnsdalsá – one of Iceland’s best salmon rivers.

The valley is also home to the Vatnsdalshólar, countless small hills forming a distinctive landscape popular among nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Vatnsdæla Saga – a family saga

Vatnsdæla Saga tells the story of the people in Vatnsdalur and their lineage. It begins around the year 900 when Ingimundur the Old arrives in Iceland and ends with the death of Þorkell Krafla in the 11th century. The saga was likely written around 1270, possibly at Þingeyri, where a strong literary tradition flourished.

The saga’s setting spans Vatnsdalur and neighbouring areas, mentioning numerous farms, farmers and individuals. Archaeological remains connected to the saga period have been found at several locations. An illustrated saga map of Vatnsdæla Saga is available at various places in North‑West Iceland, including the visitor centre at Þingeyrakirkja.

Þingeyrakirkja – Iceland’s first stone church

Þingeyrakirkja was built between 1864 and 1877 under the direction of Ásgeir Einarsson, farmer and member of parliament. The church features a curved vaulted ceiling, painted blue with golden stars – said to number one thousand. It contains many historic artefacts, some of which are preserved at the National Museum of Iceland. The church is now protected and considered one of the finest buildings in the region, attracting many visitors each year.

The monastery at Þingeyri – a literary centre for centuries

The monastery at Þingeyri was founded in 1133 and soon became a major cultural centre with extensive literary activity. Vatnsdæla Saga was likely written on vellum here, and several other Icelandic sagas are believed to have originated at Þingeyri, especially those set in Húnaþing – including Hallfreðar Saga, Bandamanna Saga, Heiðarvíga Saga and Kormáks Saga.

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Keldur in Rangárvellir is a major historical site in South Iceland. It is the only large turf farm preserved in the region. It was once the manor of the Oddi chieftains. Jón Loftsson, their leader, spent his final years here. The old farm and its surroundings show settlement, power and daily life from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

Keldur features a traditional turf farm with most of it dating from the 19th century.  Many outbuildings remain, including storehouses, a smithy, a mill hut, a cowshed, a stable and a sheepfold. Together they make Keldur a rare example of Icelandic building heritage.

Medieval escape tunnel

A unique feature of Keldur is the underground passage leading from the main hall to the stream. It likely dates from the 12th or 13th century. It was probably used as an escape route during conflict. The tunnel is one of the most remarkable structures of its kind in Iceland. It offers insight into medieval defence and daily life.

The church and historical sources

Keldur also has a church built in 1875 by Guðmundur Brynjólfsson, the district commissioner. The name Keldur comes from natural springs found throughout the home field. These springs give the site a distinctive character. The inhabitants of Keldur appear in several major Icelandic medieval texts. These include Njáls saga, Sturlunga and The Saga of Saint Þorlákur.

Keldur today – preservation and visits

The old farm at Keldur is managed by the National Museum of Iceland. It is open from 1 June to 31 August, every day from 10–17. Visitors can explore the farm buildings, outbuildings, church and underground passage. The site offers a vivid picture of rural Icelandic life in past centuries.

Keldur’s location in Rangárvellir makes it an excellent stop for travellers. It suits visitors who enjoy history, turf architecture and nature in South Iceland. A visit to Keldur links easily with other attractions in the area. These include waterfalls, museums, hiking trails and volcano exhibitions.

Ten ideas for activities in South Iceland:

1. Guided tour of the man-made caves at Hella, which may be older than Iceland’s settlement.
2. Visit the volcano and earthquake exhibitions at LAVA Centre.
3. Explore Skógar Museum, one of Iceland’s most visited museums.
4. Visit the new town centre in Selfoss and Skyrland.
5. See Oddi in Rangárvellir, with its church, memorial and excavation.
6. “Collect” waterfalls in South Iceland: Gullfoss, Hjálparfoss, Háifoss, Gljúfrabúi and Seljalandsfoss.
7. Hike the Fimmvörðuháls trail from Skógar to Þórsmörk.
8. Join a glacier walk on Sólheimajökull or a snowmobile tour on Mýrdalsjökull.
9. Bathe in Seljavallalaug or the natural hot spring in Landmannalaugar.
10. Walk the trail beside Skógafoss and continue along the Skóga River.

More ideas and information about activities, accommodation and services can be found at www.south.is.

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Oddi in Rangárvellir is one of Iceland’s most significant historical sites. It has been a church site since the early Christian period. It was also the ancient seat of the Oddi chieftains and scholars. The farm stands on a green point between Ytri-Rangá, Eystri-Rangá and Þverá. For centuries it was a major estate with wide meadows and many tenant farms. During the Commonwealth period, Oddi became a leading centre of power. Its cultural and scholarly work shaped Icelandic history.

Sæmundur the Learned and the Oddi clan

Sæmundur fróði Sigfússon (1056–1133) is the best-known member of the Oddi clan. He studied at the Black School in Paris. He is considered one of the first Icelandic historians to write about the kings of Norway. Many folktales about him survive and show the respect he earned.

Sæmundur’s grandson, Jón Loftsson, was a powerful and popular chieftain. He fostered the young Snorri Sturluson and educated him at Oddi. Snorri received the learning that later shaped works such as Heimskringla.

The Oddi clan ruled in Oddi for two centuries. Their power declined after the conflicts of the Sturlunga Age. Six priests from Oddi later became bishops, showing the site’s importance in Icelandic church history.

Oddi Church and sacred artefacts

The current Oddi Church is a timber church from 1924. It was designed by Guðjón Samúelsson, the State Architect. It seats about one hundred people. Jón (1903–1980) and Gréta Björnsson (1908–1985) painted the church in 1953, including the pulpit, font, altar and pews.

The church holds many notable artefacts. These include a silver chalice from around 1300 and an altarpiece from 1895 showing Christ in Getsemane. It also has a carved and painted baptismal font by Ámundur Jónsson, a master woodcarver.

Near the church stands a cast of Ásmundur Sveinsson’s sculpture Sæmundur á selnum. The original stands at the University of Iceland. The work links folktales, storytelling and the cultural heritage of Oddi.

Archaeological research and man-made caves

Archaeological work began in 1918. It revealed three man-made caves from the 10th century. Two have collapsed, but one still stands and has been studied in recent years. Excavations uncovered turf-built structures, including an entrance hall used until around 1100. A medieval cowshed was also found. Beneath one wall lay a large animal skull, likely a horse. It is seen as a house offering, a ritual practised in Oddi for centuries.

The Oddi Society and living cultural heritage

The Oddi Society was founded in 1990. Its aim is to support the scholarly centre at Oddi and develop Sæmundarstofa. The centre will include an exhibition hall, event space, library and accommodation for scholars.

Each year the society hosts Oddastefna. At the event, speakers present research and discuss the history of the site. The society keeps the heritage of Oddi alive and helps visitors engage with its story.

Oddi in poetry and cultural memory

The priest and poet Matthías Jochumsson served in Oddi in the 19th century. He wrote a well-known poem that begins: “Eg geng á Gammabrekku / er glóa vallartár…” The poem captures the calm and atmosphere that have defined Oddi for centuries.

Oddi in Rangárvellir today

Oddi is today a unique destination for those interested in medieval history and church heritage. The landscape reflects over a thousand years of storytelling, faith and learning. The site’s history lives on in the church, the archaeological remains, the folktales and the cultural work that preserves the heritage of Oddi.

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Hólar in Hjaltadalur is one of Iceland’s most significant historical sites, surrounded by majestic mountains and peaceful nature. For almost a millennium, Hólar has served as a centre of culture and education and was the seat of the bishopric from 1106 to 1798.

Today, Hólar in Hjaltadalur is home to Hólar University and a rich collection of historical remains that vividly illustrate the development of Icelandic culture.

Hólar Cathedral and Key Historical Sites

Hólar Cathedral, built in 1783, is the oldest stone church in Iceland. Constructed from red sandstone quarried at Hólabyrða, it houses remarkable artefacts connected to the religious and cultural history of Hólar in Hjaltadalur.

Nýibær is a turf farmhouse dating from 1860, offering insight into traditional Icelandic rural life and the everyday experience of 19th‑century farming communities.

Auðunarstofa, also known as the Timber House, was originally built in 1316–1317 and stood for nearly 500 years. It was reconstructed and reopened in 2002. The building hosts exhibitions of Bibles and printed works from the Hólar Printing Press, which operated intermittently at Hólar in Hjaltadalur between 1530 and 1799.

The Icelandic Horse Heritage Centre

At the Icelandic Horse Heritage Centre, visitors can explore the relationship between humans and horses through the centuries. Exhibits cover the history, breeding and cultural importance of the Icelandic horse, a vital part of Icelandic life since the settlement period.

Walking Trails and Nature

Hólar in Hjaltadalur is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and offers a variety of walking routes. Trail maps and information about interesting sites in the surrounding area are available on location.

Visitors can enjoy the tranquillity, history and natural beauty of Hjaltadalur at their own pace.

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In the beautiful valley of Hofsárdalur stands the old family estate Bustarfell. It is one of Iceland’s best‑preserved turf farms. The red gables and grass‑covered roof make it easy to recognise. The same family owned the farm from 1532 until 1966. Today, the turf farm is part of the house collection of the
National Museum of Iceland. It is an important heritage site for Icelandic agriculture and rural life.

Exhibitions Reflecting Over Two Centuries of Daily Life

The exhibitions are arranged in an authentic way. Visitors experience the home as if the residents had just stepped out. The museum shows how farming and daily life changed from 1770 to 1966. The farm has three kitchens. Each kitchen represents a different period and shows how household work and technology developed.

Bustarfell has been under state care since 1943. All furnishings belong to the people of Vopnafjörður. They reflect daily life, work and culture in the region. The museum is part of Vopnafjörður Municipality’s cultural work. It plays an important role in preserving local history.

Walking Routes and Natural Highlights Near Bustarfell

Bustarfell is close to several beautiful walking routes. A gentle path leads to Álfkonusteinn and Þuríðarfoss. Both places connect nature with local folklore. You can also hike up Bustarfell. A viewing disc at the top offers wide views over the valley and Vopnafjörður.

The Coffeeshop Hjáleigan

A short walk from the turf farm is a small coffee house called Hjáleigan. It is open during the museum’s season. Visitors can enjoy drinks and light food in a warm and friendly setting before exploring more of Hofsárdalur.

Ten Ideas for Things to Do in Vopnafjörður and Nearby

1. Visit Múlastofa in Kaupvangur, the oldest building and cultural centre in Vopnafjörður, where the story of the brothers and entertainers Jón Múli and Jónas Árnason is told.
2. Explore the historical sites connected to the Vopnfirðinga Saga.
3. Enjoy a swim in the beautiful Selárdalur pool, located beside the Selá river.
4. Take a trip up Hellisheiði Eystri for magnificent views over Héraðsflói and beyond.
5. Visit Borgarfjörður Eystri and observe puffins up close at the small harbour.
6. Explore Möðrudalur on the highlands and learn about the remarkable development taking place there, with Herðubreið rising on the horizon.
7. See the stunning basalt formations of Stuðlagil in Jökuldalur.
8. Relax at Vök Baths, the geothermal pools at Urriðavatn near Egilsstaðir.
9. Walk to Helgifoss in Fljótsdalur, one of Iceland’s tallest and most beautiful waterfalls.
10. Visit the nature exhibition of Vatnajökull National Park at Snæfellsstofa. It is within walking distance of Skriðuklaustur, where visitors can learn about the writer Gunnar Gunnarsson, explore monastic ruins and enjoy refreshments at Klausturkaffi.

More information and ideas can be found at www.vopnafjardarhreppur.is and www.east.is.

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The Jón Sigurðsson Museum at Hrafnseyri is a unique destination where visitors learn about the life, work and legacy of Jón Sigurðsson, the leader of the 19th‑century Icelandic independence movement. At Hrafnseyri in Arnarfjörður, nature, history and culture meet to create a living whole that helps guests understand Iceland’s independence movement in a new, personal way.

Exhibition on Jón Sigurðsson

The exhibition on Jón Sigurðsson was renewed in the summer of 2025. Basalt Architects originally designed it in 2011 to mark the 200th anniversary of Jón’s birth. The exhibition presents Jón’s story in a layered and visual way that highlights the drama and depth of his life.

It explores cultural currents, technological change and historical events that shaped Jón’s thinking and work. Texts, images and objects form a continuous narrative that appeals to visitors of all ages.

Experience and Learning at Hrafnseyri

A visit to the Jón Sigurðsson Museum at Hrafnseyri is both educational and rich in experience. Guests walk through the story step by step and have time to pause, view objects and reflect on ideas about freedom, independence and national identity. Information is available in Icelandic and English and suits individuals, families and groups.

Opening Hours and Group Visits

The museum is open from 1 June to 7 September, every day from 11:00 to 17:00. Outside regular opening hours, group visits can be arranged in consultation with staff. Travel groups, schools and other organised groups can therefore plan a visit that fits their schedule.

Contact is available by phone at 456‑8260 or by email at hrafnseyri@hrafnseyri.is.

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Hofsstaðir in Garðabær is a key settlement‑era archaeological site. A large longhouse stood here from the settlement period until the 12th century. Excavations began in 1994 and revealed extensive, well‑preserved remains. These remains show how housing, daily life and society developed in early Iceland.

The Settlement Longhouse at Hofsstaðir

The longhouse at Hofsstaðir dates from the late 9th century. It is one of the largest found in Iceland. It measures about 30 metres long and 8 metres wide. The floor area is roughly 170 square metres. Turf and stone formed the walls. Flagstones lay in the entrance, and a paved forecourt stood outside. A long fire ran through the centre. Timber framing supported the structure. A sleeping loft likely existed, and the interior was probably panelled. These features suggest a high‑status farm.

Inhabitants and Links to the Settlement Era

The longhouse likely housed 20–30 people. This group included labourers and slaves. The site lies within land claimed by Ingólfur Arnarson. It is about 2 km from Vífilsstaðir, home of Vífill, Ingólfur’s freedman. The remains offer insight into early settlement life in the region.

The Multimedia Exhibition “Back to Hofsstaðir”

*Back to Hofsstaðir* is a multimedia exhibition at Garðatorg 7. It covers the history of Garðabær from settlement to modern times. The exhibition is based on findings from Hofsstaðir. It presents early life in an interactive and visual way. Images, text and digital tools show society, housing, and daily life in the Viking Age.

The exhibition connects directly to the Historic Park at Hofsstaðir. The park preserves the real archaeological remains of the longhouse. Together, they create a unified experience. Visitors see both academic and visual interpretations of the area’s past. The exhibition is open daily from 12:00–17:00. School groups visit mid‑week from 09:00–12:00.

The Historic Park Today

The remains at Hofsstaðir are preserved in the Historic Park at Kirkjulundur. Turf walls show the longhouse’s outer limits during its final building phase. Information signs explain the history and archaeological results. Multimedia viewing scopes let visitors explore the past in an immersive way.

Visitor Experience

The Historic Park and the multimedia exhibition Back to Hofsstaðir offer a unique mix of archaeology, education and modern technology. The area suits individuals, families, and groups who are keen to explore the history of Garðabær and the settlement era in an accessible way.

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