Thorsmork Nature Reserve - Valley of the Gods

Location and Overview: Thórsmörk, often spelled Thorsmork, is a stunning nature reserve located in the southern highlands of Iceland, nestled between the Tindfjallajökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers. It’s known for its rugged landscapes, lush green valleys, dramatic canyons, and the presence of numerous hiking trails, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers.

Visitor Fee: There was typically no entrance fee to visit Thórsmörk Nature Reserve. It is often freely accessible to the public. However, some activities or guided tours within the reserve may have associated fees. Please check for any updates regarding fees.

Transportation: Getting to Thórsmörk can be a bit challenging due to its remote location in the highlands. Here are the main ways to get there:

1. Self-Drive: Many visitors rent a 4×4 vehicle and drive to Thórsmörk, although the roads leading to Thórsmörk can be rough and challenging, especially river crossings.
2. Hiking: Thórsmörk can be reached on foot through multi-day hiking trails, such as the Laugavegur Trail or Fimmvörðuháls Trail, which start in Landmannalaugar and Skogar, respectively.
3. Guided Tours: Some tour operators offer guided tours to Thórsmörk from Reykjavik and other major towns. These tours often include transportation and hiking guides.

Things to Do:

1. Hiking: Thórsmörk offers an extensive network of hiking trails suitable for hikers of varying skill levels. Popular trails include the Laugavegur Trail, which connects Thórsmörk to Landmannalaugar, and the Fimmvörðuháls Trail, which leads to Skogar.
2. Photography: The reserve’s dramatic landscapes, glacial rivers, lush valleys, and panoramic views provide fantastic opportunities for photography.
3. Camping: There are campgrounds in Thórsmörk for those who wish to spend more time exploring the area. It’s important to check campsite availability and regulations.
4. Nature Observation: Thórsmörk is rich in plant and birdlife, and visitors can enjoy observing the diverse flora and fauna.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here:

1. Natural Beauty: Thórsmörk is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including glacial rivers, moss-covered valleys, and dramatic canyons. It’s a place to immerse oneself in the beauty of Iceland’s wilderness.
2. Hiking Paradise: The reserve offers some of Iceland’s best hiking trails, making it a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Age of the Place: Thórsmörk’s landscapes have been shaped by natural processes over thousands of years, including the carving of valleys by glacial activity.

List of Activities:

1. Hiking along the numerous trails, including the Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls Trails.
2. Photography to capture the stunning landscapes.
3. Camping for a more immersive outdoor experience.
4. Birdwatching and nature observation.

Additional Nearby Attractions:

1. Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss Waterfalls: These iconic waterfalls are located to the west of Thórsmörk and are often included in hiking routes to or from Thórsmörk.
2. Eyjafjallajökull Visitor Center: Learn about the 2010 eruption of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano, which had a significant impact on air travel, at the visitor center located near the base of the glacier.