What is Thorsmork and Why Should You Visit?

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to trek through a land straight out of a fantasy novel? Welcome to Thorsmork! Nestled between three Icelandic glaciers, Thorsmork 

Nature Reserve is your ticket to the adventure of a lifetime. 

With its rugged landscapes, breathtaking valleys, and stunning panoramas, this enchanting wonderland offers an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.

Visiting here is like stepping into another world, where every nook and cranny holds a secret waiting to be discovered. Your Icelandic journey wouldn't be complete without a detour to Thorsmork, believe us!

What Does 'Thorsmork' Mean in Icelandic Culture?

Have you ever wondered what 'Thorsmork' actually means in Icelandic culture? It's not just a cool-sounding name! Thorsmork literally translates to 'Thor's Forest,' and yep, it's named after Thor, the Norse god of thunder. This isn't just a random choice; it reflects Iceland's deep connection with its Norse heritage and mythology.

How Wide Is the Thorsmork Valley And What Is the Scenery Like?

Thorsmork covers a whopping 9,542 square kilometers (3,684 square miles). The valley is an awe-inspiring maze of geological marvels. Close your eyes and picture this – rugged mountains flanking you on either side, verdant valleys strewn with wildflowers, and the ever-changing hues of the glacial rivers. 

The landscape embodies diversity, each turn presenting a new spectacle. From the black sand deserts to moss-covered lava fields and intriguing rhyolite formations to sparkling ice caves, Thorsmork is nothing short of a visual symphony! 

Where Is Thorsmork?

Enveloped by the mighty glaciers Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull, Thorsmork is tucked away in the south of Iceland. This secluded paradise lies approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) from Reykjavík, the island's bustling capital. 

While seemingly daunting, its remote location merely adds to the allure of Thorsmork, beckoning the adventurous at heart to embark on a journey to this untouched corner of the world. 

How To Get to Thorsmork

Journeying into the heart of the ethereal Thorsmork valley is an adventure in itself. Starting from Reykjavik, you'll need to take the southern Ring Road, then switch to Road 249, which leads straight into the valley. Please note this isn't a regular drive. 

You'll be navigating unbridged rivers and tricky terrains. Hence, a 4x4 vehicle is a must. Smaller rental cars won't cut it. We recommend our sturdy 4x4 campers for this exhilarating ride! Be mindful that the Icelandic Highlands, including Thorsmork, are inaccessible from October 16th to April 30th. The final hurdle, crossing the river Krossa, requires experienced drivers and depends heavily on the conditions. 

What Are The Best Thorsmork Hikes?

Get ready to lace up your boots for some of the best Thorsmork hikes, each promising an unforgettable experience. Here are some of our top picks:

• Laugavegur Trail: This famous multi-day Thorsmork hike kicks off at Landmannalaugar. This hike spans approximately 3 days. You can also opt for a luggage service package that includes accommodation and luggage transportation.

• Fimmvörduhals Hike: Beginning at the breathtaking Skogafoss Waterfall in Skogar, this hike covers 25.7 kilometers (16 miles) and takes about 8-10 hours. Renowned for its scenic views, it's a feast for the eyes.

• Mount Valahnukur Hike: A relatively easy hike, this 4.3-kilometer (2.7 mile) trail can be completed in 2 hours and offers stunning views.

• Thorsmork Highlights Hike: This 9-kilometer (5.5 mile) hike, taking around 3 hours, features diverse scenery in the Husadalur Valley. Suitable for easy to mid-level difficulty.

• Rjupnafell Hike: Tackle the challenging 16-kilometer (9.9 mile) Rjupnafell hike, including the Tindfjöll Circle Hike and the ascent of the 964-meter-high (3,163 feet) Rjupnafell peak. It takes about 8 hours to complete. 

What Part of Thorsmork for a Day Trip Is The Best?

If you're planning a day trip to the mighty Thorsmork, we recommend focusing on the Husadalur Valley region of the Thorsmork Nature Reserve. This area offers a diverse range of stunning terrains and is home to some of the most popular trails, including the Thorsmork Highlights Hike. 

Another top spot for a day trip is the Básar region — a picturesque area with its green meadows and stunning views. 

What Thorsmork Tours Offer the Best Experience?

To truly experience the magic of Thorsmork, consider embarking on a guided tour. Here are a few options that promise an unparalleled adventure.

Thorsmork Super Jeep Tour

• Price: ISK 238,600 (about $1,735)

• Duration: 7 Hours

Embark on the Thorsmork Super Jeep Tour, a thrilling journey from Hvolsvollur, showcasing the splendor of Thorsmork Nature Reserve. Navigate rugged terrains and river crossings in a super jeep, and enjoy a 90-minute hike amid stunning scenery. 

Highlights include Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Gígjökull Glacier, and the panoramic Valahnúkur ascent. Básar, a haven for hikers, also awaits. The tour includes super jeep transfers, an English-speaking guide, facility fees, and free Wi-Fi. Dress warmly with rain gear, and don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views!

Thórsmörk Valley of Thór Private Tour

• Price: ISK 196,000 (about $1,430)

• Duration: 8 Hours

The Thórsmörk Valley of Thór Private Tour is a mesmerizing journey to Iceland's natural wonders. Starting with a pick-up and a visit to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, the tour ventures along the Eyjafjallajökull volcano through river crossings leading to the lush Thorsmork valley. 

This area boasts birch forests and striking mountains. Highlights include a 1.5-hour hike on Valahnúkur for panoramic views and exploring Stakkholtsgjá Canyon's hidden waterfall. Ending with a return to Reykjavik, the tour captures your adventure with 20 professional photos, making it an unforgettable experience.

Thorsmork Buggy Adventure

• Price: ISK 89,990 (about $650) for a shared ride and ISK 101,990 (about $740) for a single ride

• Duration: 5 Hours

The Buggy Adventure to Thorsmork offers an exhilarating ride through the heart of Iceland's natural beauty. Starting from Brú Basecamp, near Road 249, with a safety briefing and gear provision, this Thorsmork tour takes you through the valley, surrounded by iconic glaciers. 

Experience the raw allure of Icelandic nature, including a visit to Gígjökull glacier and the effects of the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption. This 4x4 buggy tour combines gravel road thrills with waterfall visits, providing hours of adventure in an extraordinary Icelandic setting, making it a uniquely compelling and adrenaline-fueled experience.

Where To Stay in Thorsmork

In Thorsmork Valley, Volcano Huts offers diverse accommodation choices, perfect for every traveler's need. Fancy your own space? Rent a cozy cottage or a private room. Prefer a communal vibe? Opt for a dormitory. 

There's also a campsite for outdoor enthusiasts who bring their camping gear. For a touch of luxury in the wild, try glamping with deluxe double tents, complete with heaters, down duvets, and woolen blankets. Nearby, The Garage offers studio apartments strategically located for exploring Thorsmork and the South Coast. 

But for the ultimate freedom, consider renting a campervan in Iceland – it's like having a home on wheels, making every spot in this stunning landscape your potential overnight haven.

Why Choose Thorsmork for Your Icelandic Adventure?

Choosing Thorsmork for your Icelandic adventure means immersing yourself in a landscape of ethereal beauty and diverse terrain. It's a place where glaciers meet volcanic remnants, and lush valleys offer unforgettable hiking trails. 

Thorsmork is a nature enthusiast's paradise, offering an authentic Icelandic experience with its unique flora, fauna, and geological wonders. To enhance your adventure, Campervan Reykjavík provides the ideal travel solution. 

Our quality campervans, specifically suited for Iceland's rugged landscapes, offer the flexibility and comfort to explore Thorsmork and beyond at your own pace, making your journey through this majestic land both comfortable and memorable.