The Þjórsárdalur valley holds one of Iceland’s most remarkable archaeological stories. In 1104, the volcano Hekla erupted and buried the farming settlement of Stöng under a thick layer of ash — freezing a Viking Age community in time. When archaeologists uncovered the site in 1939, they found longhouse foundations, livestock quarters, and domestic artifacts that paint a vivid picture of daily life over 900 years ago. Nearby, Þjóðveldisbærinn is a full-scale reconstruction of the Stöng farmstead, built from the archaeological evidence, where you can walk through turf-walled rooms and understand how Iceland’s settlers lived.
Between these historical sites, the valley hides Gjáin — a lush oasis of small waterfalls, springs, and green vegetation tucked inside a lava landscape. It feels like stepping into another world entirely. Your guide connects the Viking history to the land itself, explaining how these settlers chose their farmsteads and how one eruption could erase a community overnight.
This valley is also home to some of Iceland’s most dramatic cascades. Hjálparfoss, where twin waterfalls pour through hexagonal basalt columns, opens the tour with an immediate visual impact. Further into the highlands, Háifoss drops 122 meters into a deep volcanic canyon — one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland — with its neighbour Granni falling in parallel beside it.
The Þjórsárdalur valley sits far east of the Golden Circle route and remains far less visited, giving you the freedom to explore without crowds. For those wanting to go deeper into Iceland’s interior, our South Coast Highlands multiday tour extends the journey into the surrounding highland region.
What happened to the Viking settlement at Stöng? The 1104 eruption of Hekla volcano buried Stöng under volcanic ash, freezing the settlement in time. Archaeologists discovered the preserved ruins in 1939, revealing how Vikings lived 900 years ago.
What is Þjóðveldisbærinn? Þjóðveldisbærinn is a full-scale reconstruction of the Stöng farmstead, built from archaeological evidence. You can walk through authentic turf-walled buildings and see traditional Icelandic crafts demonstrated.
How tall is Háifoss waterfall? Háifoss drops 122 meters into a volcanic canyon, making it one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls. Its neighbor Granni falls in parallel beside it, creating a dramatic twin cascade.
Can you eat at a Viking restaurant on this tour? Optionally, the tour can include dining at Ingólfsskáli, a Viking-themed restaurant serving traditional Icelandic cuisine in a longhouse atmosphere. Advance booking is recommended.
Rugged 4x4 vehicle for up to 4 passengers, perfect for Iceland's terrain.
Have specific requests or questions? Let us tailor this experience to your needs.
Prefer to talk? Schedule a phone call with us.
Focus on the essentials. Explore the highlights of the famous Golden Circle
A tour full of discoveries and thrilling experiences
Conquer Iceland's second-highest waterfall through scenic canyon adventure