Þórsmörk

Þórsmörk (pronounced 'Thors-mork') sits in a glacial valley about 150km east of Reykjavík, ringed by three glaciers — Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull. The landscape is dramatic in a way that feels almost theatrical: black volcanic ridges, birch-covered slopes, and rivers running with glacial meltwater cutting across the valley floor. Getting here requires a 4x4 vehicle or a highland bus, and that effort is a large part of why it feels so rewarding.

This is serious hiking country. Þórsmörk is the endpoint of the famous Fimmvörðuháls trail from Skógar — a full-day 25km trek that crosses the lava fields created during Eyjafjallajökull's 2010 eruption. It's also where the legendary Laugavegur trail finishes, connecting from Landmannalaugar over four to five days. If you're not up for multi-day hiking, shorter day walks around the valley offer incredible ridge views without the commitment.

The highland season here runs from late June to early September — outside those months, river crossings become dangerous and facilities close. Book accommodation at the mountain huts well in advance, especially if you're planning to walk Laugavegur in July or August. Guided super jeep tours from Reykjavík can get you here in a day if you'd rather leave the driving to someone else.