Attractions and Places To See in Norðurþing - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Norðurþing include a diverse range of natural wonders and cultural sites in northern Iceland. This municipality is known for its powerful waterfalls, impressive canyons, and unique geological formations. Visitors can explore the vast landscapes of Jökulsárgljúfur National Park or experience the maritime culture of Húsavík. The region offers a variety of attractions for those interested in natural beauty and local heritage.
Best attractions and places to see in Norðurþing
- The most popular attractions is Selfoss Waterfall, a waterfall approximately 13 meters high and 100 meters wide. This waterfall is characterized by its many basalt columns and is located upstream from Dettifoss.
- Another must-see spot is View of Ásbyrgi Canyon, a horseshoe-shaped gorge that is part of Jökulsárgljúfur National Park. This impressive gorge offers scenic views and a unique geological landscape.
- Visitors also love Rauðhólar (Jökulsárgljúfur), a volcanic area featuring red mountain cones. It provides fantastic views and is a notable destination for hiking through the Hljóðaklettar rock formations.
- Norðurþing is known for its spectacular waterfalls, unique geological formations, and cultural landmarks. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from natural monuments to historical sites.
- The attractions in Norðurþing are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 100 upvotes and 95 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Selfoss Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
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Selfoss Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
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Húsavík Church
Highlight • Religious Site
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Arctic Henge (Heimskautsgerðið) in Raufarhöfn
Highlight • Monument
Heimskautsgerðið in Raufarhöfn, the most remote and northernmost
Commune of Iceland, lies just below the Arctic Circle near the coast and
is under construction. The existing construction, like its historical predecessor, looks like a large sundial, catching the sun's rays
one, casts shadows on precisely pre-calculated areas and frames them
celestial phenomena by day and by night. The gates open to the four cardinal directions. For example, you can
Watching the Midnight Sun from the South Gate through the Central Gate and North Gate. The location of Heimskautsgerðið allows a 360°
Panoramic view whose infinity is not obstructed by mountains, buildings or other constructions.
Heimskautsgerðið in Raufarhöfn goes back to the search for possibilities, the unlimited horizon, the light of the north and the
Midnight Sun to meet just below the Arctic Circle.
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Jökulsárgljúfur National Park
Highlight • Gorge
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Visitor Center
Highlight • Rest Area
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Rauðhólar (Jökulsárgljúfur)
Highlight • Volcano
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rauðhólar_(Jökulsárgljúfur)
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View of Ásbyrgi Canyon
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Hljóðaklettar Basalt Rock Formations
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Jökulsá á Fjöllum
Highlight • River
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In Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River has created Iceland's longest river canyon, stretching over 25 km. There are several beautiful hiking trails through the park, starting at the Vesturdalur campsite. One tour leads to the red mountain cones of the Rauðhólar crater series, which offer excellent views over the canyon. Those who want to hike the three waterfalls of Jökulsárgljúfur can take the hiking trail above the canyon and pass the Hafragilsfoss, Dettifoss, and Selfoss waterfalls one after the other. With the establishment of Vatnajökull National Park in 2008, Jökulsárgljúfur National Park was incorporated into the larger park.
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The Selfoss Waterfall is characteristically wider than it is tall, with a height of approximately 11 meters (36 feet) and a width of around 100 meters (330 feet). This impressive width creates a majestic waterfall, particularly impressive from the surrounding cliffs. The powerful flow of water and the mist it creates give the waterfall an enchanting atmosphere. This combination of vastness and mist makes Selfoss a photographer's paradise, offering numerous opportunities for impressive shots in a variety of lighting conditions.
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The Selfoss Waterfall is characteristically wider than it is tall, with a height of approximately 11 meters (36 feet) and a width of around 100 meters (330 feet). This impressive width creates a majestic waterfall, particularly impressive from the surrounding cliffs. The powerful flow of water and the mist it creates give the waterfall an enchanting atmosphere. This combination of vastness and mist makes Selfoss a photographer's paradise, offering numerous opportunities for impressive shots in a variety of lighting conditions.
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Although most tourists come to Húsavik on Skjálfanda Bay for the popular whale-watching tours, a visit to the wooden church, built in 1907, is still a must. The oldest piece in the church is the chandelier, dating from 1640. Other items, such as the altarpiece from 1931, are more recent.
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Unfortunately, it is currently difficult to reach for people with reduced mobility, but a "ramp" is already being built from the parking lot to the viewing platform (as of August 2024) to make the waterfall accessible to wheelchair users, otherwise the earlier you get there, the emptier it is 😉
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Many hikes can start from here.
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This is a nice place for the chance to shoot a rainbow.
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Jökulsá á Fjöllum, which means “glacier river in the mountains”, is the second longest river in Iceland with a length of approximately 206 km. The river's source is the Vatnajökull Glacier and it flows into the Greenland Sea. The river flows over the Selfoss, Dettifoss, Hafragilsfoss and Réttarfoss waterfalls, the second of which is the most powerful waterfall in Europe. The Jökulsá á Fjöllum basin is the largest in Iceland, covering an area of approximately 7,380 square kilometers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural wonders can I explore in Norðurþing?
Norðurþing is rich in natural attractions. You can visit spectacular waterfalls like Selfoss Waterfall, known for its basalt columns, and the powerful Dettifoss. The region also features the impressive Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, home to the horseshoe-shaped Ásbyrgi Canyon and the unique Hljóðaklettar Basalt Rock Formations.
Are there any historical or cultural sites to visit in Norðurþing?
Yes, Norðurþing offers several cultural and historical sites. In Húsavík, you can see the charming Húsavík Church, a wooden church built in 1907. Further north in Raufarhöfn, don't miss the Arctic Henge (Heimskautsgerðið), a contemporary monument inspired by Norse mythology.
What are some family-friendly activities in Norðurþing?
Many attractions in Norðurþing are suitable for families. The Húsavík Church and the Arctic Henge are listed as family-friendly. Whale watching tours from Húsavík are also a popular and exciting activity for all ages. Additionally, many of the shorter, easier hiking trails in areas like Jökulsárgljúfur National Park can be enjoyed by families.
What kind of hiking trails can I find in Norðurþing?
Norðurþing offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy walks to more challenging routes. You can find easy loops like the Dettifoss Viewpoint – Selfoss Waterfall loop or the Hljóðaklettar Rock Formations loop. For more options, explore the easy hikes in Norðurþing or the broader selection of hiking trails in Norðurþing.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Norðurþing?
Efforts are being made to improve accessibility. For instance, a ramp is currently under construction at Selfoss Waterfall to make it accessible for wheelchair users. The Visitor Center in Jökulsárgljúfur National Park is also listed as wheelchair accessible, providing a good starting point for exploring the area.
What is the best time of year to visit Norðurþing for whale watching?
The prime season for whale watching in Norðurþing, particularly from Húsavík, is generally from April to October. During these months, the chances of spotting various whale species, including humpbacks and even blue whales, are highest in Skjálfanda Bay.
Where can I experience unique geological formations in Norðurþing?
For unique geological formations, head to Hljóðaklettar Basalt Rock Formations, where you can walk among twisted basalt rocks and experience unusual echoes. Another fascinating site is Rauðhólar (Jökulsárgljúfur), a volcanic area featuring striking red mountain cones that offer fantastic views.
What are the options for outdoor activities beyond hiking near these attractions?
Besides hiking, you can enjoy running on various trails in the region. For example, there are moderate running loops around Húsavík and Ásbyrgi. You can find more details and routes in the Running Trails in Norðurþing guide.
Can I visit the Jökulsárgljúfur National Park Visitor Center?
Yes, the Visitor Center serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Jökulsárgljúfur National Park and its surroundings, including Ásbyrgi and Hljóðaklettar. It provides facilities and information to help plan your visit.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Norðurþing?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking natural beauty, especially the powerful waterfalls and unique geological sites. The impressive views from places like Rauðhólar and the serene atmosphere of the canyons are often highlighted. The community has shared over 95 photos and given more than 100 upvotes to the attractions, indicating a high level of satisfaction with the diverse offerings.
Is it possible to see multiple waterfalls in one area?
Absolutely. The Jökulsá á Fjöllum river area is home to several magnificent waterfalls. You can easily visit Selfoss Waterfall, which is just about a kilometer's walk upstream from the more powerful Dettifoss. This allows you to experience two distinct and impressive waterfalls in close proximity.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots worth visiting?
While not strictly 'hidden,' the Hljóðaklettar Basalt Rock Formations offer a truly unique and somewhat otherworldly experience that might be less crowded than the major waterfalls. The red mountain cones of Rauðhólar also provide a distinct landscape and fantastic views away from the main tourist paths.
Most popular attractions in Norðurþing
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