Best of Thorsmork

Set in the wilderness interior of southern Iceland, Thorsmork is a protected nature reserve that’s famed for its hiking trails. Snowcapped mountains, verdant valleys, icy rivers and chiseled gorges set the stage for short and long hikes in this dramatic region. Getting to Thorsmork is an adventure in itself, and only accessible by four-wheel drive (either small jeep or on specially outfitted buses), with several wild river crossings along the way. Though you can come for the day from Reykjavik, it’s worth spending the night to maximize your time in the so-called “Valley of Thor.” 

This hiker’s paradise has some of Iceland’s most scenic trails. Wherever you hike, you won’t lack for extraordinary scenery. Along the 3-hour loop of Valahnúkur Circle, you’ll take in glaciers, canyons and panoramic overlooks with views all the way to the ocean. If you’re planning to spend a few days here, you can either pitch a tent at a campsite or overnight in one of the mountain huts. For big adventures, you can reach Thorsmork on foot by hiking the Fimmvörðuháls trail from the south coast (one to two days), or tackling the four-day Lauvagegut hut-to-hut hike, which starts in Landmannalaugar.