Hvannárgil

Start your hike in Thórsmörk, Icelandic for Thor's Valley, a reference to the Norse god. Nestled between the Myrdalsjökull and Eyjafallajökull ice caps in the highlands, this wild region is a favorite of Icelanders and a true hiker's paradise. Protected from the Atlantic winds, the valley enjoys a surprisingly mild microclimate in summer, favoring lush vegetation, including numerous birch forests. Surrounded by steep, ice-capped mountains, it offers a striking contrast between the moss-covered flanks and the black plains sculpted by glacial rivers.

This hike follows an excellent marked trail and is not particularly difficult. It includes a short detour to the summit of Réttarfell, also known as Vestrihattur, offering spectacular views over the Thórsmörk valley. Then it's on to the magnificent Hvannárgil canyon, below which the Hvanná river winds its way between impressive cliffs.

If you're starting from the Langidalur campsite rather than Básar, here's the gpx file.