Valahnúkur
The hike to the summit of Valahnúkur begins in Thórsmörk, Thor's Valley in English, named after the Norse god. Nestled between the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull ice caps in the highlands, this rugged region is a favorite place of Icelanders and a true paradise for hikers. Sheltered from Atlantic winds, the valley has a surprisingly mild summer climate, which promotes lush vegetation, including numerous birch forests.
This hike offers spectacular views of imposing glaciers, steep mountains, deep valleys, and winding rivers. On a clear day, you can even see the ocean to the south! If you visit Thórsmörk, the Valahnúkur hike should definitely be on your list. This route is short and easy, and you can easily combine it with other hikes.
Remarks
Getting to Thórsmörk: I strongly recommend taking one of the bus companies to reach the region. The F249 road to Thórsmörk has some of the most challenging river crossings in Iceland and should only be attempted by highly experienced drivers with suitable vehicles.
You can book tickets with the bus companies Icelandia and TREX.
Hiking in Thórsmörk: Check out my Thórsmörk hiking guide to help you choose your hikes.
Difficulties and description of the hike
This route is one of the most popular in Thórsmörk, so it is well maintained and has clear markings. It is one of the few hikes in the area that is easy and has no vertiginous passages.
What you'll love
- The 360° panorama from the summit, considered one of the most beautiful in Iceland, offers spectacular views of the Þórsmörk valley, glaciers, and surrounding mountains.
- The meandering Krossá River, visible at the foot of Valahnúkur as it winds its way to the ocean.
- An accessible and well-maintained hike: ideal for a quick introduction to the spectacular landscapes of the Thórsmörk valley.
Hike technical sheet
➡️ Hiking parameters
➡️ Hiking parameters
➡️ Hiking parameters
REMARKS
Getting to Thórsmörk: I strongly recommend taking one of the bus companies to reach the region. The F249 road to Thórsmörk has some of the most challenging river crossings in Iceland and should only be attempted by highly experienced drivers with suitable vehicles.
You can book tickets with the bus companies Icelandia and TREX.
Hiking in Thórsmörk: Check out my Thórsmörk hiking guide to help you choose your hikes.
Difficulties and description of the hike
This route is one of the most popular in Thórsmörk, so it is well maintained and has clear markings. It is one of the few hikes in the area that is easy and has no vertiginous passages.
What you'll love
- The 360° panorama from the summit, considered one of the most beautiful in Iceland, offers spectacular views of the Þórsmörk valley, glaciers, and surrounding mountains.
- The meandering Krossá River, visible at the foot of Valahnúkur as it winds its way to the ocean.
- An accessible and well-maintained hike: ideal for a quick introduction to the spectacular landscapes of the Thórsmörk valley.
Slideshow
Nearby hikes
Rjúpnafell
- Difficulty : Very hard
- Duration : 6 h
- Distance : 14.1 km
- Elevation gain : 920 m
Tindfjöll loop
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- Duration : 3 h 30 m
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- Elevation gain : 380 m
Hvannárgil
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- Duration : 2 h
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- Elevation gain : 380 m
Móði and Magni craters
- Difficulty : Hard
- Duration : 7 h
- Distance : 15.9 km
- Elevation gain : 1100 m
Hikes to discover
Let chance guide your steps: Each time you visit Horizonrando, you will discover a new selection of hikes in Iceland, chosen at random.