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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Fantastic Fjords is a local Travel Agency in Ísafjörður. After  many years in the Travel and Service industry, both in Reykjavik and New York, we decided to move to the Westfjords of Iceland and start our own company in early 2016. Focus on Soft Travel with culinary touch, history and culture and mix and mingle with the locals.

Travel with a foodie twist

Fantastic Fjords specialises in so-called soft travel, where experience, leisurely travel and local connections are at the forefront. This way, food culture, historical insights and interaction with locals are part of each trip, making the experience both personal and memorable.

Customized trips

Each trip is customised to the needs and interests of each client with an emphasis on personal service and unexpected surprises that are often missing from traditional travel.

Unexpected experiences in unexpected places

Fantastic Fjords’ goal is to create unique experiences in places that surprise guests. Whether travelling exclusively in the Westfjords or combining the trip with other parts of the country, we ensure that each guest goes home with unforgettable memories.

Start planning your trip

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Mink Viking Portrait at Laugavegur 11 offers a unique photo and cultural experience. Guests step into the Viking Age in a custom-built studio in downtown Reykjavík. Visitors wear handcrafted costumes, carry real weapons and are photographed by experts with film industry experience. The experience has topped TripAdvisor for over a decade and holds a 4.9-star rating for quality and atmosphere.

Handcrafted Viking costumes and weapons

All costumes and props at Mink Viking Portrait are selected or made in the studio’s own workshop. Linen and wool tunics, fur-lined cloaks, leather belts, bronze buckles, armour and forged steel weapons are tailored to each guest. The goal is to recreate the look of Norse settlers in the 10th century. This is not simple dress-up but a vivid historical experience that attracts filmmakers and travellers worldwide.

Norse history and mythology brought to life

Icelandic photographers and stylists guide each visit. They share stories from the sagas and explain Norse beliefs, daily life and the settlement of Iceland. Guests learn about the cultural heritage that still shapes Iceland today. Many describe the visit as “much more than a photo shoot.” It becomes a personal and educational journey into the past.

Private indoor experience in downtown Reykjavík

Mink Viking Portrait is fully indoors and offers private, pre-booked sessions. This makes the visit a safe choice in any weather. Guests can easily combine the experience with a walk through the city or a visit to Harpa or Hallgrímskirkja.

For couples, families and groups

The studio welcomes guests of all ages and adjusts costumes and poses to each group. Couples receive guidance for both elegant and powerful poses. Families get costumes suited to everyone. Individuals, couples and small groups enjoy the same private setting as larger groups. Fixed prices for groups of one to eight make booking simple. Larger groups can request a quote.

Digital photos and keepsakes to remember

Each session includes dozens of photos taken in the custom studio. Images are delivered in high resolution on the same day or within 24 hours. Guests can order prints, mugs and other keepsakes shipped worldwide. Gift vouchers are available year-round and valid for 18 months.

Visiting Mink Viking Portrait

The studio is on the 2nd floor at Laugavegur 11, close to Reykjavík’s main landmarks. Booking is essential, especially in summer and when cruise ships are in port. You can book at mink.is and make changes with at least 24 hours’ notice. Please let us know if you need help with the stairs.

Ten ideas for activities in Reykjavík and surroundings

1. Take a boat tour from Reykjavík harbour: go whale watching, see puffins or northern lights, try sea angling or sail to Viðey.
2. Visit The Saga Museum, Whales of Iceland and then FlyOver Iceland in Grandi, where you can experience Iceland’s natural wonders in an immersive virtual flight.
3. Explore the lively harbour area in Grandi with galleries, shops and restaurants.
4. Visit The Settlement Exhibition in Aðalstræti, the Reykjavík Museum of Photography and the Reykjavík Art Museum.
5. Take a walking tour around Reykjavík and see historic buildings and landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa and Reykjavík City Hall.
6. Stroll through the wooded Öskjuhlíð hill and visit the exhibitions at Perlan, including the ice cave and northern lights show.
7. Go on a bike ride and discover nature around the capital area, including the coastline and Grótta lighthouse, Fossvogsdalur and Elliðaárdalur.
8. Go for a swim! Try one of the many swimming pools in the capital area or sea swimming at Nauthólsvík. The newest bathing spot is Sky Lagoon in Kópavogur.
9. Hike in the nearby mountains, such as Úlfarsfell, Mosfell, Helgafell, Esja or Vífilsfell.
10. If you visit in winter, head to the ski areas in Bláfjöll and Skálafell, about a 30-minute drive from Reykjavík.

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Old Icelandic Books offers a rare cultural experience where guests explore Icelandic ancient books and manuscripts in an intimate and hands-on way. The visit is based on one of the most remarkable private collections in Iceland, giving guests the chance to hold history literally in their own hands.

The collector guides guests through the centuries

The visit begins in the collector’s workshop, where he demonstrates how the books are preserved and restored. In small groups, guests are taken on a journey through centuries of Icelandic literary heritage. They see how text, paper and leather have protected the stories of the nation for hundreds of years. Here, history is not hidden behind glass; it is experienced through touch and presence.

Private exhibitions and insightful guidance

Old Icelandic Books offers private viewings of rare works and first printed editions of the Icelandic sagas. The guidance is personal and based on original sources, providing a clear and accessible insight into Iceland’s literary and cultural history.

Lectures and workshops

Lectures and workshops are available on Icelandic literary heritage, manuscripts and printing history. This educational experience suits both enthusiasts and those who wish to dive deeper into the cultural heritage of Iceland.

An experience that leaves a lasting impression

Visitors describe the experience as powerful and unique. They see and touch works that have shaped the understanding of Iceland’s past. The visit appeals to anyone interested in stories, culture, books and craftsmanship.

The story of the collection and its founder

Old Icelandic Books was founded by Eyþór Guðmundsson, who has dedicated his life to collecting and preserving rare books and manuscripts. Eyþór grew up at Beitistaðir in Leirársveit, where the printing press of the National Enlightenment Society operated from 1815–1819. Many rare Icelandic books were printed there.

From a young age, Eyþór heard stories from older generations — from his grandparents and local people who had lived through changing times. These stories sparked his interest in books and cultural heritage.

Location and bookings

Old Icelandic Books is located at Laugavegur 65 in Reykjavík and offers bookable experiences for individuals and small groups. Guests can see the books, hear the stories and experience centuries-old cultural heritage in a unique way.

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The Icelandic Sheepdog Heritage Centre is a lively and educational exhibition that highlights the history, role and unique character of this remarkable breed. Its aim is to preserve the cultural heritage connected to the Icelandic sheepdog and make it accessible to visitors of all ages. The story is told in a warm, visual and personal way.

Opening and development of the exhibition

The centre opened in May 2025 after three years of preparation by cultural scholar Evelýna Ýr from Lýtingsstaðir. She has gathered diverse material showing how the Icelandic sheepdog has accompanied Icelanders since the settlement period and played a key role in daily life, farming and national culture.

Education, visual material and archives

Visitors can explore the breed’s history in Icelandic, English, German and French, watch documentaries, view old photographs and artworks showing the development and characteristics of the sheepdog. They can browse books, name and colour archives, see the dogs up close and listen to stories connected to the breed. The Icelandic sheepdogs at Lýtingsstaðir often greet visitors and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Turf horse stable and architectural heritage

In 2015, the family at Lýtingsstaðir built a turf horse stable, a shed and a corral that reflect traditional Icelandic architecture. These buildings are masterpieces of turf craftsmanship. The exhibition there explains how horses were kept in earlier centuries and how the history of people and horses in Iceland is intertwined. Audio guides are available in four languages and take about 30 minutes. Guided tours for groups are also available.

Lýtingsstaðir and historical context

Lýtingsstaðir traces its roots to the settlement era when Lýtingur claimed land in the area. The farm was a major estate for centuries, and a half‑church stood there from the 11th to the 18th century. It later served as a meeting house into the 20th century. Although the original turf buildings no longer exist, the turf houses built in 2015 give a clear picture of life and farming in earlier times.

A cultural experience for visitors

Tourism has been part of life at Lýtingsstaðir since 2000, alongside traditional farming. The farm offers horse rides, accommodation and visits that connect Icelandic cultural heritage: the Icelandic horse, turf buildings and, of course, the Icelandic sheepdog. The Icelandic Sheepdog Centre is an ideal stop for anyone who wishes to experience Icelandic history and culture in a personal and engaging way.

Ten activities near the Icelandic Sheepdog Centre

More information can be found at visitskagafjordur.is.

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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

Cultural heritage

The voice of nature

Accommodation and local connections

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

Ten ideas for activities in the Dalir District

Further information can be found at west.is.

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Nature, culture and adventure

Welcome to the Upper Árnessýsla Region, where natural beauty blends with captivating culture and unforgettable adventures. The area offers numerous interesting places to visit – well-known natural attractions, historic sites and hidden gems. Here you will find beautiful waterfalls, hot springs and a wide range of experiences for visitors of all ages.

Everyone knows Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir and Skálholt, but the region has so much more to offer. Most people are familiar with the Golden Circle, but it is in fact much larger than many realise – more like a golden chain than a circle. In the Upper Árnessýsla Region there is always something new and exciting to discover.

We recommend spending more than one day to enjoy everything the region has to offer. A wide variety of accommodation is available: campsites, guesthouses, summer cottages, hotels and mountain huts. Many places offer hot tubs, and there is always a swimming pool nearby.

The region is known for excellent local food and unique culinary experiences – the Upper Árnessýsla Region is a true food basket and the cradle of vegetable cultivation in Iceland.

Diverse activities

The Upper Árnessýsla Region offers activities for all interests and all members of the family. You can rent horses or attend a horse show, go quad biking, snowmobiling or river rafting. A visit to the Hella Caves and the Laugarvatn Caves is an unforgettable experience.

The area is ideal for birdwatchers and hikers – walking paths lead through forests and small hills await climbing. The Slakki Mini Zoo in Laugarás is a popular destination for families. You will also find an adventure park, galleries, museums, exhibitions, several swimming pools and golf courses.

Visitors can enjoy frisbee golf, football golf, beach volleyball and various sports and playgrounds. Whether you seek tranquillity, knowledge, excitement – or a little of everything – the region has something for you.

There are several charming villages and small communities: Flúðir, Laugarvatn, Brautarholt, Árnes, Reykholt, Laugarás, Borg and Sólheimar. Each offers useful services and is ideal for a short stay, a visit to local campsites or accommodation, and exploring what the surrounding area has to offer.

Unique nature

The nature of the Upper Árnessýsla Region is beautiful and diverse. Highlights include Kerið, Úlfljótsvatn, Þjórsárdalur, Brúarhlöð, Kerlingarfjöll, Kjölur, Háifoss, Laxárgljúfur, Hjálparfoss, Haukadalsskógur, Faxi and the Laugarvatn area.

The region offers excellent outdoor opportunities – walking trails, guided hikes and each season with its own charm.

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Daily walking tours in downtown Reykjavík

CityWalk provides daily guided walking tours in Reykjavík for travellers and private groups. The company was founded in 2014 by Marteinn Briem and has from the beginning offered free walking tours where guests give voluntary contributions at the end. These popular tours have gained attention in international media and at hotels across the city. All tours are conducted in English by an experienced guide.

To book, visit the CityWalk website.

Private walking tours for groups

For those seeking a more personalised experience, CityWalk offers private walking tours lasting 2–3 hours. These tours are designed for smaller groups and often include food.

The Icelandic Walk – for groups and companies

Icelandic groups, companies and social clubs can book the Icelandic Walk, a customised tour of the city centre focusing on Icelandic history and culture.

Reliability and flexibility

CityWalk has never cancelled a tour and always has a plan B if conditions change. Flexibility and professionalism are key elements of the service and are reflected in numerous positive reviews from satisfied guests and partners.

Further information can be found at CityWalk.is.

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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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