A hands-on Icelandic day hike that trades marked trails for raw terrain: climb to Stórhóll, rest beside Helgufoss waterfall, then visit Nobel laureate Halldór Laxness’s house. Expect bogs, steep pitches and sweeping views a short drive from Reykjavík.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the van onto a gravel pullout and the wind immediately rearranges your plans — it tugs at hoods and dares you forward. The trailhead sign for Vindhöll marks the start; beyond it the ground opens into patchwork fields and peat bogs, and the route climbs through gullies that strip the noise from the city until only the wind and your boots remain.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; comfortable with sustained uphill sections, uneven terrain, and some boggy ground
Wildlife
History
The route ends near the former home of Halldór Laxness, Iceland’s Nobel laureate, now a museum preserving his study and garden.
Conservation
The area includes delicate moss and peat bogs that recover slowly; stay on durable ground where possible and pack out all trash.
Reserve your spot on the Grimannsfell Day Hike to Waterfall and Legacy today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Waterproof footwear only
Boggy sections and wet grass are constant; sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good tread prevent soaked socks and blisters.
Layer for wind and rain
Bring a breathable waterproof shell and insulating mid-layer — conditions can shift from sun to sleet within an hour.
Start early for conditions and light
Morning starts often mean calmer winds and clearer summit views; late afternoons can bring stronger gusts and lower visibility.
Follow the guide on unmarked sections
Trails are sometimes indistinct; stick with the guide to avoid fragile vegetation and unstable ground.
Waterproof hiking boots
Keeps feet dry and provides traction on bogs, wet grass and scree.
Waterproof breathable jacket
Protects from wind-driven rain and retains warmth during exposed summit sections.
Trekking poles
Help with balance across soft bog and on steep descents, reducing knee strain.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down)
Lightweight warmth that can be added or removed as conditions change.