The Viking Circle
Your adventure begins at 8:00 AM with a hotel pickup Reykjavík.
Morning: Old Icelandic Books
Begin your adventure with a visit to Old Icelandic Books, where you will have the rare opportunity to handle authentic medieval manuscripts and modern editions of Icelandic sagas. This hands-on experience immerses you in Iceland’s literary heritage and sets the foundation for your Viking journey.
Celtic Roots and Viking Settlements
Embark on a journey through Iceland’s earliest history, where the worlds of Celtic monks and Viking settlers intertwined.
- The Caves of Hella – Begin your exploration at these mysterious man-made caves, believed to be among Iceland’s oldest inhabited sites. Here, delve into the history of the Pápar, Irish monks who sought solitude in Iceland before the arrival of Norse settlers. Learn how their presence influenced early Icelandic culture and how Celtic traditions merged with Viking beliefs.
- Keldur in Rangárvellir – Continue to Keldur, one of Iceland’s oldest surviving Viking farmsteads. This historic site, with its medieval turf houses, provides a glimpse into the daily lives of Viking chieftains and farmers. Learn about the powerful clans that ruled this region, their legendary feuds, and how they shaped Iceland’s early social structure.
Through these two fascinating locations, uncover the deep cultural connections that shaped Iceland’s Viking Age and the legends that still echo through its landscapes today.
Afternoon: The Viking Valley in Þjórsárdalur
Travel through the breathtaking Þjórsárdalur Valley, a region rich in Viking history and dramatic landscapes. Along the way, visit three of the valley’s most captivating waterfalls, each with its own connection to Iceland’s early settlers.
- Hjálparfoss Waterfall – A stunning twin cascade framed by unique basalt formations. Viking settlers once gathered here to water their horses and share tales of survival, making it a place steeped in history and legend.
- Þjófafoss Waterfall – Known as the "Thieves' Falls," this powerful waterfall was feared in Viking times as a place of execution, where outlaws met their fate. Experience the raw beauty of this dramatic site, set against the backdrop of Mt. Burfell.
- Gjárfoss Waterfall – A hidden gem within the valley, this picturesque waterfall flows from the highlands into a serene, moss-covered canyon, offering a peaceful retreat into nature.
As you traverse Viking Valley, uncover the stories of Iceland’s early settlers, the challenges they faced, and the legends they left behind. This journey through Þjórsárdalur brings you closer to the landscapes that shaped Viking life and lore.
Viking Farmstead, Cultural Immersion, and Feast
Arrive at the Commonwealth Farm in Þjórsárdalur, a reconstructed Viking-era farmstead complete with traditional turf buildings and a Viking church. Immerse yourself in the daily life of early Icelandic settlers as you explore their agricultural practices, craftsmanship, and religious traditions. Gain a deeper understanding of Viking power structures, the role of chieftains, and the importance of community councils in shaping their society.
As the day unfolds, gather around an open fire for an authentic Viking BBQ, just as the Norse once did. Enjoy a hearty feast of traditional Icelandic meats, fresh bread, and rustic side dishes, all prepared using Viking-age cooking techniques. Raise a horn of mead in a celebratory toast, embracing the warrior spirit of the past. If time and weather allow, test your skills in axe throwing or archery before concluding this unforgettable Viking experience.
Evening: Overnight under the Midnight Sun
After a day filled with exploration and adventure, unwind as you journey back to your hotel in South Iceland. Travel through breathtaking landscapes bathed in the warm glow of the Midnight Sun, where the endless twilight creates a magical atmosphere. Arriving in the late evening, take a moment to soak in the serene beauty of Iceland’s summer nights before resting for the next day’s adventure.
