Dalir District

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History and nature

The Dalir District is a region where history and nature meet in a unique way. Here you can trace the footsteps of early settlers and the stories of the Icelandic Sagas, while also enjoying tranquillity, diverse outdoor activities and a warm local community. Dalir offers an experience that blends cultural heritage with natural beauty – a place to travel slowly and savour.

Historic sites and nature experiences

Few regions in Iceland boast such a rich history as Dalir (Dalabyggð). The area is home to numerous historic sites connected to the settlement period and the Icelandic Sagas, and the landscape itself bears witness to the past. The peaceful nature of the region offers varied outdoor activities: walking trails, birdwatching and quiet moments that nourish body and mind. Dalir lies by Breiðafjörður Bay, where countless islands, birdlife and whales create an exceptional nature experience. The Breiðafjörður Nature Reserve, lakes, waterfalls and shores form a diverse landscape that leaves no visitor untouched.

Cultural heritage

In Dalir you can visit sites connected to Auður the Deep‑Minded and experience the landscape that shaped this wise and widely travelled woman. At Eiríksstaðir in Haukadalur, the birthplace of Leif “the Lucky” Eriksson, guests can learn about the daily life and circumstances of his family in an authentic historical setting.

The voice of nature

The Dalir District is home to diverse nature and wildlife. Here you can see Icelandic farm animals in their natural environment, as well as seals, puffins and seabirds. Sit down on a soft tussock, breathe in the scent of sea and plants, and listen to lambs bleating, birds singing and the powerful sound of waterfalls. In Dalir you are never far from nature — and sometimes even from hidden folk, elves or trolls said to live peacefully alongside the locals.

Accommodation and local connections

Dalir offers accommodation for all preferences — hotels, guesthouses, summer cottages and campsites. Meet the locals, hear their stories and gain insight into the lifestyle of the people of Dalir. They are always happy to share recommendations on where to go and what to see. You do not need to travel far off the main road to experience everything Dalir has to offer — but a short walk can deepen the experience.

Dalir is a place to travel slowly, embrace the atmosphere, enjoy and simply be.

Ten ideas for activities in the Dalir District

Visit the Vinland Settlement Exhibition in Búðardalur and learn about Leif the Lucky’s voyages to Vinland.
Step back into the settlement era at Eiríksstaðir in Haukadalur and experience daily life in the 10th century.
Relax in Guðrúnarlaug, a peaceful geothermal pool in Sælingsdalur.
Explore historic sites on the Golden Saga Ring, where figures such as Auður the Deep‑Minded and Geirmundur Heljarskinn once lived.
Enjoy varied walking trails in the rural landscape of Dalir, suitable for both short and long hikes.
Taste local farm products at Erpsstaðir Creamery — cheese, skyr, ice cream and more.
Go trout fishing in Haukadalsvatn — purchase a fishing permit and enjoy the tranquillity.
Visit the animal park at Hólar in Hvammssveit and meet friendly farm animals with guided introductions.
Stop by Ólafsdalur in Gilsfjörður, the site of Iceland’s first agricultural school founded in 1880.
If you are travelling north, do not miss the Seaweed Spa at Reykhólar.

Further information can be found at west.is.

Miðbraut 11, 370 Búðardalur dalir@dalir.is www.west.is/en/destinations/towns-regions/visit-dalir (+354) 430 4700
Opening hours: Some tourism service in Dalir is open all year around – while other is open in the summertime, April/May-Sept./Oct.