Drive from hotel
1 hour
Accessability
4×4 Car
Season
All
The Þjórsárdalur Valley is a stunning area located on the border of the Icelandic highlands. You can easily take a day trip to this valley from either Hotel Rangá or the Highland Center Hrauneyjar. Featuring incredible waterfalls, interesting historical sites and geological landmarks, the valley is well worth a visit.
One of the most well-known attractions in the Þjórsárdalur Valley is the Þjóðveldisbærinn Commonwealth Settlement Farm, a 1974 replica of the farm at Stöng which was destroyed by an eruption of Hekla in 1104. This replica gives visitors a real sense of life during the saga age. Visitors can also access the ancient stone foundations of the farm at Stöng. These are located about 4 km from the Commonwealth Settlement Farm.
Nearby the ruins of Stöng you will find Háifoss, the second highest waterfall in Iceland. Fed by the river Fossá, the waterfall plunges down over 122 m (400 ft). The sight of the massive waterfall from a viewing area atop a cliff is truly unforgettable. This sight is not for those with a fear of heights!
The Þjórsárdalur Valley is also home to a lovely oasis known as Gjáin. This hidden gem is filled with many waterfalls and lush plant life. There are even basalt columns and lava caves. We highly recommend that you hike around Gjáin to enjoy the peaceful ambience and natural beauty.
FAQ about Þjórsárdalur Valley
On our social media channels we frequently post tips, tricks & fun facts about Iceland with the hashtag #knowIceland.
There are a few places of interest in Þjórsárdalur valley, such as the ruins of the saga-age farmhouse Stöng, the Þjóðveldisbærinn Commonwealth Settlement Farm, Hjálparfoss waterfall, the hydroelectric power station Búrfellsvirkjun, Háifoss waterfall and Gjáin.
Distances from Þjórsárdalur Valley
It takes approximately 1 hour to drive from Hotel Rangá to the Þjórsárdalur Valley. If you wish to visit Gjáin or Háifoss, it is necessary to drive a 4×4 vehicle.
It takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to drive from Reykjavík to the Þjórsárdalur Valley. If you wish to visit Gjáin or Háifoss, it is necessary to drive a 4×4 vehicle.
