The stately farm Stöng used to stand in the fertile Þjórsárdalur valley, until a disastrous eruption from volcano Hekla in 1104 destroyed it. However, the longhouse was preserved under layers of ash. When it was excavated and studied by archaeologists, it provided valuable historical information about life during the Icelandic Commonwealth in 11th–century Iceland.

The Commonwealth Farm which is located nearby, was built in 1974 based on manor farm Stöng to commemorate the 1100 anniversary of the Icelandic settlement. It gives visitors a chance to study the building techniques of the first Icelanders, learn about their backgrounds and daily lives. It’s easy to picture people sitting by the long fire and chatting while eating or working. On the loom, the fabric is being weaved. It seems as if the residents just stepped out for a bit.  The replica of Stöng has also been used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. The turf houses in beautiful natural surroundings make for a perfect visit!

The nature of Þjórsárdalur is varied and fascinating, and there are e.g. Háifoss and Hjálparfoss waterfalls. The Gorge  (Gjáin) is a unique natural wonder just in 10 min walking distance from the  ruins of  Stöng. In the valley are also other beautiful hiking trails and a camping site.

Ten ideas for recreation in western part of South Iceland:

1. 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.
2. Walk on for one of the most popular treks in Iceland, across Fimmvörðuháls to Þórsmörk, an oasis of natural birch woods.
3. “Collect” the waterfalls in South Iceland; other noteworthy falls include Hjálparfoss, Háifoss, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi.
4. Explore the historical sites from Njáls saga and visit the old turf-farmhouse at Keldur.
5. Visit the interactive, high-tech exhibition at LAVA Volcano & Earthquake Centre in Hvolsvöllur and the Hekla exhibition at Leirubakki.
6. Walk inside Rútshellir, probably the country’s oldest manmade cave.
7. Swim in stunning surroundings in Seljavallalaug or in Landmannalaugar further inland.
8. Get even more wet! Apart from the area’s swimming pools, the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir and Laugarvatn Fontana Spa are recommended.
9. Visit a greenhouse! Learn about the eco-village Sólheimar, the production of tomatoes at Friðheimar, mushrooms at Flúðir and taste their curious culinary creations.
10. Learn all about the Icelandic horse at shows at Friðheimar, through stable visits at Sólvangur, and riding tours with one of the horse farms in the area.

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