03-04-2024
Home to cascading waterfalls, flowing rivers, lush greenery and steaming hot springs, the spectacularly scenic Thjorsardalur Valley, or Þjórsárdalur Valley in Icelandic, is an incredible natural space in the south of the island.
Let’s learn more about this wonderful valley, including where exactly it is, how to get there and the best things to do at Thjorsardalur Valley, plus stunning hikes you can take around this beautiful area.
Running along Iceland’s longest river, named Thjorsa River (or Þjórsá River), the impressive Thjorsardalur Valley is a breathtaking example of the beauty of Iceland’s untouched and wonderfully-preserved natural landscapes.
As well as stunning nature, Thjorsardalur Valley is significant both in terms of Iceland’s cultural heritage and the country’s modern infrastructure. That’s because this epic valley is home to a Viking-era farmhouse and a hydroelectric power plant that makes an important contribution to the island’s energy supply.
Just a heads up for when you’re planning your visit to this incredible natural space – you may see Thjorsardalur Valley written as pjorsardalur, where the Icelandic letter thorn ‘Þ’ (pronounced ‘th’) has been replaced with a ‘p’.
Located in South Iceland, Thjorsardalur Valley sits within the Icelandic Highlands close to the fiery Hekla Volcano. Only 120 kilometers from the Icelandic capital of Reykjavik, Thjorsardalur Valley is just a short detour away from the famous Golden Circle route in the southwest of the island.
Reaching Thjorsardalur Valley from Reykjavík will take around 1 hour and 45 minutes by car. Around half of the trip from Reykjavík to Thjorsardalur Valley will take you along the main Ring Road in Iceland (also known as Route 1), then you’ll need to take Route 30 and Route 32 to reach the valley itself.
Find out what the major attractions at Thjorsardalur Valley are, so you don’t miss a thing!
Located in the lava fields of Hekla Volcano, the double-cascade Hjalparfoss Waterfall and the Fossabrekkur small falls and rapids are unmissable sights while exploring Thjorsardalur Valley. You can also see one of the highest waterfalls in Iceland, the 122-meter-high Haifoss Waterfall, close to the valley. Make sure to wear waterproof shoes and outer layers to keep cozy and dry when witnessing these beautiful falls for yourself.
Pjodveldisbærinn Stöng, or the Commonwealth Farm, is a reconstructed Viking-era farmhouse in Thjorsardalur Valley. The original historic turf house was destroyed in an 1104 volcanic eruption, but has since been rebuilt to give visitors a unique glimpse into life in rural Iceland during the Middle Ages.
Intricate basalt rock formations, sprawling green vegetation, small ponds and flowing falls make the valley of Gjain the perfect place for a hike when visiting Thjorsardalur Valley. You can take a beautiful hike of 2.1 kilometers through Gjain from the Viking farm, Pjodveldisbærinn Stöng.
Perfect for intrepid adventurers, going on a guided rock climb at Thjorsardalur Valley will provide you not only with an adrenaline rush and unforgettable memories, but also stunning panoramas of the valley. Rock climbing in Thjorsardalur is dangerous and challenging, so it’s important to have an expert guide with you.
One of the cornerstones of Iceland’s geological landscape is the island’s hot springs. You can visit the incredible, steaming Pjorsardalur hot springs to witness the vibrancy and dynamism of Earth’s geology firsthand – how magical!
Situated along the western boundary of Thjorsardalur Valley, Burfell is a basalt tuya mountain, which is actually a rare type of volcano with a flat top and steep sides formed by lava erupting through a glacier. At the side of this unique mountain, you’ll find a lush, green forest, which is a wonderful place for taking a hike within Thjorsardalur Valley.
The power of the Thjorsa River is harnessed by a hydroelectric dam at Burfell. Opened in 1969, Burfell Power Station is one of seven power stations in the Thjorsa area and can be seen near Hjalparfoss Waterfall.
Inspired to explore the epic Thjorsardalur Valley for yourself? Get prepared for your own exciting Icelandic adventure by renting a car in Iceland, ready to hit the road and discover the incredible natural landscapes all across this unique Nordic island.
Got any questions? Don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team and we’ll be happy to help. We look forward to welcoming you to our amazing Land of Ice and Fire soon!