Þórsmörk

Þórsmörk is one of Iceland’s most beautiful and diverse nature reserves, located north of Eyjafjallajökull and west of Mýrdalsjökull. The area is bordered by the glacial river Krossá to the south and Markarfljót to the north.

The name Þórsmörk derives from the Norse god Thor. According to the Book of Settlements, the area was claimed by Ásbjörn Reyrketilsson, who dedicated his land to Thor, giving the valley its historic name.

Þórsmörk is renowned for its unusually rich vegetation. Sheltered by surrounding mountains and glaciers, the valley supports birch forests, ferns, mosses, and lush plant life rarely found in Iceland’s highlands.

Heavy grazing in earlier centuries caused serious damage to the forests. After the 1918 eruption of Katla, the area was protected and placed under the care of the Icelandic Forest Service. Since then, vegetation has recovered remarkably.

The glacial river Krossá flows through the valley in shifting channels and can be dangerous to cross. A footbridge is provided for hikers, as water levels and river paths change frequently.

Thanks to the surrounding mountains, Þórsmörk often enjoys milder and drier weather than much of South Iceland, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities.

Þórsmörk is extremely popular among hikers and nature lovers. Several famous trekking routes pass through the area, including the Laugavegur Trail to Landmannalaugar and the dramatic route over Fimmvörðuháls to Skógar.

Numerous shorter hiking routes are also found within the valley, such as trails to Stakkholtsgjá gorge, Valahnúkur, and the viewpoints of Little End and Big End, offering spectacular views of glaciers, rivers, and mountain ridges.

Photo: Anton Stefánsson