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.