A three-peak mountain in South Iceland, the Þríhyrningur offers a wonderful hike spaced out from the hustle and bustle of the city life and beautiful views around the area. From each of the mountain tops, you can get a glimpse of Hekla volcano to the north-west, Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Vestmannaeyjar, and many other sites. Located north side of Fljótshlíð area, this huge mountain offers a view of beautiful Eyjafjallajökull glacier to the south-east. Standing tall with a height of 678 meters, this mountain was formed thousands of years ago when the land was completely covered by glaciers. Amidst abandoned the old trading route of South Iceland, the Þríhyrningur is set in an outstanding landscape. This tall mountain offers an opportunity to experience a peaceful hike while captivating you with its beauty. You can behold two gorges in the mountain named Katrínargil and Tómagil.
There is a valley between the three peaks of Þríhyrningur called Flosadalur. It is named after Flosi, a character from Svínafell in the Njál’s Saga. You will be able to properly appreciate the beauty of the landscape from the vantage point at the mountain’s summit. This three-legged mountain of South Iceland features cultural, aesthetic, and historical importance to the people of Iceland which makes it a worthy place to add to your entourage.
Places to Explore Around Þríhyrningur
You can discover many other naturally protected beauties around this place including Fljótshlíð, Hvolsvöllur, Seljalandsfoss, and Gljúfrabúi. Fljótshlíð is one of the major sites in the Njal’s Saga. It is a beautiful farming district surrounded by the most active and well-known volcanoes in the world. You will witness Hekla in the north, Katla in the east, and Eyjafjallajokull in the south. You can stay here for the trip to South Iceland as the district offers good accommodation and the services.
Travel to the hidden gem of Iceland’s south coast, Nauthúsagil while exploring the area around Þríhyrningur mountain. This narrow ravine is located beneath the glacial volcano Eyjafjallajökull. This scenic location is popular for the wild rowan tree which nurtures its ridges. Though the hikers can go across this waterfall, the rocks are usually slippery at some points. While wandering on the south coast, you will behold Seljalandsfoss, another magnificent waterfall falling from a height of 60 meters. Impressive natural features and the proximity to the ring road make it one of the most famous waterfalls of Iceland. To experience nature’s true beauty, visit the Stakkholtsgjá canyon that can be hiked to reach a picturesque waterfall. Several streams run through the 100 meters deep and two kilometers long canyon. Since it is located within the Þórsmörk Nature Reserve, it is regarded as the hidden gem of South Iceland.
How to Reach Þríhyrningur
Since the three-legged Þríhyrningur mountain is located at a distance of just 122 kilometers from Reykjavik, it can be accessed easily. While starting from Reykjavik, drive on the Ring Road 1 towards the south-east and cross the town of Hveragerði and Selfoss. Drive from Hvolsvöllur to Fljótshlíðarvegur and take a left turn by Tumastaðir. Drive into the Vatnsdalur valley for about 7 kilometers to reach Fiská river and then the parking area. The parking area is near to the place where hiking trails start from. It takes around 3 hours to hike up to the top of Þríhyrningur and come back.
Visiting the place in the summer is ideal as the roads can be closed in winters due to heavy snow. Bring comfortable and warm clothing according to the weather forecast of the area. To avoid any misadventure, get along a pair of hiking shoes. For accommodation, you will find many hotels, guesthouses and hostels in the nearby towns of Fljótshlíð and Hvolsvöllur.
Map of Þríhyrningur
Interesting locations in the area
Locations
- Keldur Turf Hosue
- Hvolsvöllur
- Gluggafoss
- Seljalandsfoss
- Gljúfrabúi
Hotels & Restaurants
- Seljalandsfoss Horizons
- Hotel Selja
- Hotel Rangá
- Midgard Base Camp
- Eldstó Art Cafe