Thórsmörk, Iceland, is one of those places that looks too good to be true – and then you see it and realize that it totally lives up to its reputation as one of the most beautiful areas in Iceland!
With bright green mountains, volcanic glaciers, raw rugged nature, and braided glacier rivers, it looks like something straight out of a dream.
Þórsmörk in Icelandic translates into “valley of Thor,” a nature reserve located in the Highlands, neatly tucked away between three glaciers.
The first time I went to Thórsmörk, I spent three days and two nights hiking through the breathtaking landscapes, camping, and relaxing in the hot springs. I felt like I had only gotten a taste of what the valley had to offer, and desperately wanted to go back!
While Thórsmörk is an absolute must-see, getting there can be a little complicated, and enjoying a trip here does require a bit of advanced preparation.
Therefore, I wanted to cover transportation options, where to stay, amazing hikes, and things to do in the area – everything you’ll need to know to be fully prepared for your trip.
Grab your hiking gear and let’s get into it!
Is Visiting Thórsmörk (Þórsmörk) Worth It?
Oh, where do I begin?! I’ve traveled to Thórsmörk many times and it’s breathtaking.
If you’re a nature lover, it’s definitely a must! Let’s take a look at why I think this is a bucket-list-worthy destination.
Accessibility: The Highlands are notoriously tricky to get to because of the road conditions and remoteness. However, Thórsmörk is the most accessible Highland destination. It’s situated directly off the Ring Road (one of the most popular routes in the country). It’s a must-add to your itinerary, especially if you are traveling this route.
Hiking: If you’re planning a Thórsmörk hike, the possibilities here are endless, drawing outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. Bumping into Chris Hemsworth in Thor’s Valley isn’t guaranteed (although, one can dream 😉), but conquering those challenging hikes will make you feel like somewhat of a superhero!
Natural Beauty: The towering mountains, stunning glaciers, and the braided rivers of the Highlands make it one of the most scenic areas of the country and, in my opinion, a must-add to your itinerary.
Photography: The stunning views make for incredible photo opportunities.
Hidden Gems: If you’re out hunting for hidden gems, this is the place to find them. The Highlands are still relatively untouched, so it’s possible to find places that many tourists haven’t discovered yet.
If you’re thinking about adding Thórsmörk to your Iceland itinerary, do it! I cannot recommend this incredible place enough.
When is the Best Time of Year to Go to Thórsmörk National Park?
The best time to visit the Thórsmörk Valley is from mid-June until the end of August. That’s when the weather is generally at its best. The F249 road to Thórsmörk is usually open, and you can drive there yourself.
Can I Visit Thórsmörk in Winter?
Access to Thórsmörk in winter is closed off to passenger travel if you want to drive yourself there.
However, some of the tour companies DO operate there during the winter, so it doesn’t mean that it’s completely closed off, just that you can’t drive yourself.
I would highly recommend checking with Midgard Adventure if you’re planning a winter trip to Iceland. We did a tour with them one winter and it was incredibly beautiful.
Psssst – want to save on your Thórsmörk winter trip? Use code: IWAV7 for 7% off Midgard’s 4-Day All-Inclusive Northern Lights Adventure — perfect if you’re chasing the aurora on a winter trip. (The code applies to all multi-day tours!)
It’s important to check out road.is before heading out for the day. This website informs you of the road conditions and closures, as well as weather conditions for the day. It’s literally a lifesaver and a must-use resource, especially when traveling the F-roads.
If you’re keen on experiencing the magic of Iceland in the winter check out this post👇
➡️ READ: Iceland in Winter: Must-See Attractions, Driving, Weather, Packing And MORE
Where is Thórsmörk Located?
This beautiful area is located in the Icelandic Highlands, one of the most remote parts of the country.
If you’re driving, it’s 80 miles (128km) from Reykjavík and it’ll take you just under two hours to get there.
The Thórsmörk valley in Iceland, extends roughly 93 miles (150 km) between three glaciers, namely Tindfjallajökull, Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull.
The Highlands are spectacular, but you do need to plan carefully before attempting them! Here’s what you need to know. 👇
➡️ READ: The Highlands of Iceland: Your Ultimate Guide To Explore Like A Pro
How To Get to Thórsmörk, Iceland
There are a few different ways to get to Thórsmörk, let’s take a look at the options.
Hire A Vehicle and Let Someone Else Drive
You could hire private transport or an excursion that will specifically take you to Thórsmörk.
Super jeep tours and mountain buses drive into Thórsmörk daily, usually from May – October. This is convenient for those who don’t have a 4WD vehicle but still want to visit the area.
Book a Private Super Jeep Tour
This is an awesome option if you want a more personalised experience. You can stop whenever you like to take photos and soak in the scenery.
Another advantage is that it gives you access to this area in the colder months when buses aren’t running. The downside is that these private tours will be a pricier option!
👉🏼 Want to bring the price down a little? I’ve got something for ya — use code IWAV10 for 10% off Midgard’s Thórsmörk Super Jeep tours to save!
Hop on a Highland Bus
You can either catch the Thórsmörk buses departing from Reykjavík, or it’s possible to hop on at different locations along the way.
The major bus companies that make these trips possible are Trex, Southcoast Adventure, and Reykjavík Excursions via Icelandia. They all make multiple trips per day, which is a good option if you want to do a Thórsmörk day tour.
These buses are specially fitted with big tires so that they can make the river crossings with no problem. The timetables will differ depending on the company you’re using.
TREX BUS SCHEDULE
I suggest purchasing your ticket in advance to make sure that everything is sorted out before you even embark on the bus from Reykjavík to Thórsmörk.
Put on Your Boots & Hike into Thórsmörk
Two long treks end directly in Thórsmörk: Fimmvörðuháls and Laugavegur.
Fimmvörðuháls: This is a Thórsmörk day hike. An 8-10 hour trek that runs between Skógafoss and Thórsmörk. Just be forewarned, the weather can often be unpredictable, so come prepared!
Here’s a sneak peak of what you can expect. 👇
Laugavegur: This multiple-day hike runs between Landmannalaugar and Thórsmörk. The trek is incredibly scenic but NOT the easiest way to get there!
Rather have a guide lead the way? Midgard runs guided versions of treks like these. Use code: IWAV5 for 5% off options like the 7-Day Epic Midgard Trek or other multi-day trek tours!
Drive to Thórsmörk Yourself
The roads that lead into the Highlands are F-roads, which means that only 4×4 vehicles are allowed to make the journey.
F-roads are bumpy, unpaved, and difficult to drive. On top of that, there are river crossings, so if you’re driving to Thórsmörk, you need a special vehicle with 4WD capabilities.
(Take a look at this blog post if you’re not sure of the differences between renting a 👉 2WD or 4WD in Iceland, or why it’s important.)
If you’re renting a vehicle and planning to forge the river yourself, I suggest Blue Car Rental. They’re a local company known for exceptional customer service, and their prices already include insurance. Their vehicles are specially equipped to handle the rough terrain, and if you use my link, you’ll receive my exclusive VIP discount!
Important Driving Tips for the Highlands
If you plan on driving in Iceland, here are a few things you need to plan for, especially in more remote areas like Thórsmörk.
Don’t underestimate the F-Roads: There’s driving in Iceland, and then there’s driving the F-Roads! These roads are notoriously rough and the river crossings to Thórsmörk make it especially tricky.
I wrote a post all about the F-roads where I go through how to tackle these roads if you’re driving yourself, what to expect, and the vehicle you need.👇
➡️ READ: F-Roads In Iceland: Everything You Need To Know For Safe Driving
What Accommodation Options Are There at Thórsmörk?
If you’re looking to turn this into an overnight or multi-night experience, with hiking or camping in between, it’s totally possible.
Básar
There are several base camps set up in Thórsmörk and the most popular one is Básar – especially with the locals.
Therefore, booking in advance is crucial to ensure you get a spot.
Básar is also the place where the Fimmvörðuháls hike ends.
You can do tent camping, RV camping, and bunk accommodation as well. For trips like this, having flexible accommodation options can really take the stress out of planning.
That’s why a lot of travellers rent camper vans, and from my own experience, I can tell you, it’s A LOT more comfortable than traditional camping!
With Happy Campers you can prepare your own meals, which is super convenient because there aren’t exactly restaurants around Thormork! Not only that but their campers are extremely comfortable and you have the peace of mind knowing that their vehicles are equipped for the rugged F-Roads.
💥 Use code: IWAV10 for a 10% discount off your rental price when you book with Happy Campers.
Langidalur
Another option is called Langidalur, which offers plenty of areas for tent camping.
You’ll also find a hut that provides bunk accommodation for 73 people. And, if you like cooking, they have a spacious kitchen area for making meals indoors!
If you’ve got your heart set on camping, here are a few important things you need to know about camping in Iceland. 👇
➡️ READ: Iceland Camping 101: How To Plan The Perfect Icelandic Adventure
Volcano Huts: Húsadalur
The volcano huts in Thórsmörk, Iceland are located in the Húsadalur valley in the middle of the nature reserve.
This is where the Laugavegur trek officially ends and is a very popular place to stay, especially in the summer months.
We stayed at the Volcano Huts and loved our time there.
You can camp, book a multi-person dorm, or rent a private hut.
They’re also the only base camp with a full restaurant on-site serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They offer a packed lunch option for your hikes, just make sure to arrange this in advance.
Dining options in this area are VERY limited, so proper planning is crucial!
To reach the Volcano Huts, you’ll need to cross a deep and swiftly flowing glacial river, Krossá, the most dangerous river crossing in the country. It’s NOT possible to do this without a specially modified vehicle.
If you’re traveling with a hired vehicle, you’ll need to park it at the small lot before reaching the river and take the footbridge to get across or contact the Volcano Huts to pick you up.
It’s important to remember that the Krossá River should NEVER be attempted under any circumstances.
For those heading to the Volcano Huts, I highly recommend arranging for them to pick you up just before reaching the Krossá River.
Pro tip: This is the only accommodation in Thórsmörk Valley that offers additional services and amenities. These include a small playground for the kids, a restaurant and bar, a sauna and even a geothermal pool. They also have Thórsmörk hiking maps available so you can plan out your route.
With easy access to the best hiking trails in the valley, and extra amenities it’s a great place to stay!
What Are the Best Things To Do in Thórsmörk?
Thórsmörk (Þórsmörk) is a hiker’s PARADISE.
And while hiking might be the most popular reason to visit this gorgeous area, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy during your stay.
Take a Thórsmörk Super Jeep Tour
One of the best ways to explore Thórsmörk is by taking a Super Jeep tour. These tours are designed to take you to some of the most beautiful and scenic locations in the area, which may be difficult to access on your own.
Super jeep tours typically last between six to eight hours and are led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the local area and landscape.
Taking a super jeep tour allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views while your guide navigates the challenging terrain, including river crossings. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of Thórsmörk without the stress of driving yourself!
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Thórsmörk – Valley of Thór | Private Tour | Photo Package Included
Explore the Incredible Hiking Trails
Yep, you guessed it, the number one reason why people come here is because of the amazing hiking opportunities. Let’s take a look at some of the Thórsmörk hiking trails.
Valahnukur hike: This is a short loop that starts and ends at Volcano Huts, with breathtaking views over the Thórsmörk Valley. This hike can easily be done in 1.5-2 hours. The nice thing is that you can also add this to either of the routes below.
Tindfjöll circle: You can do this Thórsmörk trail as well, it just depends on how much time you have. This was the second route we did and loved it. The loop takes about 5-6 hours where you hike further into the valley bringing you up close and personal to the glaciers. I can highly recommend this hike. This was my favorite part of the weekend, and the views were unbelievable!
Fimmvörðuháls: I completed this 30 km route with some good friends. A very popular trek that begins at Skógafoss and ends in Thórsmörk. This hike is advanced and not for inexperienced hikers, it also requires advanced planning as camping and/or transportation logistics need to be organized well in advance. We loved every minute of this hike and I highly recommend it for experienced hikers!
If you want to check it out, I wrote a post about it here. 👇
➡️ READ: Fimmvörðuháls Hike: A Step-by-Step Guide To One Of Iceland’s Most Epic Adventures
Laugavegur: The Laugavegur trek is perhaps the most widely known hike in Iceland. Starting in Landmannalaugar and ending at the Volcano Huts in Thórsmörk, this trail offers unbeatable scenery. Some people choose to combine two treks by adding the Fimmvörðuháls hike after they complete Laugavegur.
Pro tip: If you’re looking for hiking options, I recommend checking with one of the base camps located in Thórsmörk. They can show you the routes, how long it takes, and the difficulty level.
And if hiking runs in your veins, I’ve put together some of my all time favorite hikes in the country. 👇
➡️ READ: What Are the Best Hikes in Iceland? 13 Trails You Need to Explore!
Visit the Waterfalls
Seljalandsfoss is just a short 40-minute drive away, this is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, and you can actually walk behind it! Nauthúsagil waterfall is a hidden gem roughly 15 minutes away from Thórsmörk.
Gljúfrabúi and Skógafoss waterfalls are also very close by.
If you’re interested in visiting the best waterfalls in Iceland, be sure to check out this post. 👇
➡️ READ: 21 Unforgettable Waterfalls in Iceland You Don’t Want to Miss
What to Pack for Hiking in Thórsmörk
You’re going to be out in the middle of nowhere, so you can’t just quickly pop into the shops and get what you need. Luckily, I’ve been there and done that, so these are my recommendations for what you’ll have to bring with you.
Layers: At one point I was wearing full rain gear, and the next I was down to my tank top. So, make sure that you have warmer layers that you can throw on if the weather changes suddenly.
Waterproof outerwear: Moisture-wicking hiking gear is a must because conditions change rapidly in Thórsmörk. Waterproof outerwear from head to toe is necessary, especially considering its location between mountains and glaciers, where unpredictable weather patterns can result in frequent rain.
Hiking boots: Sturdy boots are essential for all the rugged terrain in the Highlands.
Backpack: a small backpack will suffice for day trips out of the base, but make sure it’s comfortable!
Waterproof cover: I highly recommend a cover for your pack – if it rains, you don’t want to get your gear wet!
Walking poles: At the risk of sounding older than my actual age, sometimes it’s nice to have something to hold onto! Especially on uneven terrain over multiple hours. Swallow your pride and just get the poles!
Food and snacks: Hiking these crazy terrains makes ya hungry! I’m always craving salt when I hike, so I make sure to bring trail mix along with sandwiches, fruit leather, gel packs, etc. Like I said, unless you’re staying at the Volcano Huts which is where they provide food, you’re going to want to bring your own food.
Water bottle: I recommend bringing a full-sized reusable water bottle because. There are so many fresh glacier streams where you can just fill up water right at the source.
Extra battery: The cold Icelandic weather really zaps your batteries! Bring extra battery packs for your phone and camera – you don’t want to miss out on any picture-perfect moments!
Small first aid kit: Hopefully you don’t need to use it but bring one just in case. Remember you’re in the wilderness, far away from any hospitals. Bring a first aid kit with bandaids, vaseline, and pain medicine. All that hiking might create friction, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Pro Tip: When you’re hiking these long trails, you might not get the best cell phone service. I recommend using the 112 app (112 is also Iceland’s emergency number, FYI!). Their app allows you to report an accident or emergency as well as share your location.
Want more tips on what to pack for a successful Iceland trip? My Ultimate Iceland Packing Guide has got you covered! From seasonal checklists to weather insights and a shopping guide, download it below to pack like a pro for Iceland.
FAQs
Here are answers to a few questions that often come up.
Which of the Base Huts at Thórsmörk are Easiest to Drive To?
While there are other streams you need to cross, getting to the Básar is easier to access than the Volcano Huts and Langidalur because you won’t be crossing the Krossá River.
What is the Name of the F-Road to Thórsmörk?
The F-Road to Thórsmörk is F249, or Þórsmerkurvegur.
Do You Need a 4WD to Get to Thórsmörk?
If you are driving yourself, then yes, you’ll need to take an F-road to reach Thórsmörk. Since Icelandic law requires a 4WD on all F-roads, it’s important not to attempt the drive in a 2WD vehicle or you could get a fine.
Thórsmörk Map & Iceland Highlands Guide
When it comes to the Icelandic Highlands, the scenery is pretty much unbeatable!
But let’s be honest, planning a trip here can be REALLY challenging.
Knowing where to fuel up, where to stay out in the wilderness, plus navigating the rough terrain add a few more obstacles into the mix.
What’s worse is that there’s hardly any reliable, up-to-date information out there about the Highlands.
That’s why I decided to check out these places for myself and create my very own 👉 Iceland Highlands Map & Guide.
It’s packed with insider tips and personal experiences that’ll help make planning your adventure a piece of cake!
In it, you’ll find a guided itinerary covering everything from major attractions to hidden gems, hot springs to hiking trails, and even the best places to refuel and grab groceries.
You’ll also get access to an interactive Google map, with pinned locations for easy navigation.
Need tips on tackling those F-Roads, river crossings, and more? I’ve got you.
This travel guide is packed with all the information you need to turn those Highlands challenges into unforgettable experiences.
Don’t travel to the Highlands without this.
Take the guesswork out of planning to Iceland’s most difficult area to travel to. This Travel Guide will help you plan an unforgettable Highlands trip from start to finish.
Happy Planning,
