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Thakgil: Yellow trail

Thakgil, or Þakgil, exudes a mystical atmosphere, far from the classic tourist sites, with a setting reminiscent of Thórsmörk. The landscape is characterized by gorges and canyons with vertiginous walls, draped in green moss contrasting with the black of the volcanic rocks. It's a truly singular place that we highly recommend discovering; it was a real “coup de coeur” for us.

There are four hiking trails starting from the campsite, including the yellow circuit, which is one of the longest. Like all Thakgil trails, this one is well-maintained and marked. The main difficulties lie in the length of the route and some steep, often slippery slopes, but none of the passages are really technical. To avoid having to return via the road track, we suggest coming back via the purple trail, which differentiates our itinerary from the one proposed at Thakgil.

This circuit offers spectacular views, notably of the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap and its Kötlujökull and Huldujökull glaciers. Although we could only admire part of this impressive panorama due to low clouds, it remains truly breathtaking.

Note that in 2023, the red circuit was closed due to dangerous passages. However, it is also reputed to be magnificent, but perhaps slightly more technical.

GPX

DIRECTIONS

GPX

DIRECTIONS

MY RATING :

Activity: Hiking

Difficulty: Hardi

Average duration: 6 hi

Length: 15.1 km

Type of route: Loop

Elevation gain: 770 m

Maximum altitude: 745 m

Vertiginous: Slightlyi

Marked: Yes

Popularity: Low

Region: South

Start point: 63.53027, -18.88822

REMARKS

To get to Thakgil, take Route 214 for 16 kilometers. Not an F-road, the 214 is passable for all types of vehicle. We recommend a 4WD or SUV, however, as the road is very uneven and dotted with numerous potholes.

Like the Thakgil trails, this road is only open during the summer months, the exact dates depending on snow conditions.

We recommend spending at least one night at the Thakgil campsite. Nestled in the heart of a natural cirque, the campsite is surrounded by impressive, almost impassable rock faces covered in green moss. Don't miss the inviting grotto where campers can relax and share a convivial meal at the end of a day's hiking.