Home to one of the country’s most important waterfalls, Skogar is a small town with a population of about two dozen people. Visit its open-air folk museum, quaint houses and ocean cliffs that have receded several miles inland.
Gaze up at the humbling waterfall of Skogafoss that drops vertically from cliffs that once loomed over the Atlantic Ocean. The land has since been reclaimed, so the cascade of water hits the ground, with its spray generating single and double rainbows. Ascend the steps to the right of the waterfall’s base leading to its summit.
A 5-minute walk southeast from the waterfall leads to Skogar Museum, an open-air exhibit showcasing traditional Icelandic homes. Note how the roofs of its buildings blend in with the grass of the surrounding hills. Explore the replicas of houses, a church and shops from the early 20th century.
The museum holds about 15,000 handicrafts and other items that play an important role in Icelandic culture. Peruse the collection of communication devices used in the country.
Travel north of town to see the looming presence of the glacier Eyjafjallajökull that sits atop a volcano at a height of 5,417 feet (1,651 meters). It last erupted in 2010, causing disruption to air travel around Europe. A visitor center explaining the causes and effects of the recent eruption is a few miles west of Skogar.
Join a tour during which operators will help you to make a safe, gentle walk on ice at the glacier of Solheimajokull. Take photos of the rocky formations seemingly trapped in the ice. Learn from the guides about the formation and nature of the glacier.
The town’s name translates to “Forests,” in reference to the dense woodland on the surrounding hills. Hike along paths among trees and enjoy a picnic with your family in the picturesque region.
In southern Iceland, Skogar is a 2-hour drive southeast from Reykjavik, which holds the nation’s main airport. Skogar is a charming hamlet blending traditional Icelandic culture with the country’s impressive natural behemoths.
