Gjáin & Stöng

The Gjáin walk is a short, gentle outing in Þjórsárdalur, South Iceland, that links the excavated farmstead of Stöng with one of the country's prettiest small gorges. The measured route is 2.5 km out and back, takes about 45 minutes and has only around 20 m of ascent, reaching roughly 190 m. It suits almost anyone, and the contrast between the bleak pumice desert around it and the lush hollow of Gjáin is striking.

Stöng was a farm abandoned after an eruption of Hekla buried the valley in pumice, traditionally dated to 1104, and its ruins are now protected under a shelter. A few minutes away, Gjáin opens up as a sunken valley of basalt, lava formations, small waterfalls and pools, with grass and moss in summer. It is a peaceful spot that rewards slowing down rather than covering distance.

Highlights

• The excavated medieval farm ruins at Stöng
• Waterfalls and clear pools inside the green Gjáin gorge
• Twisted lava and basalt formations along the path
• Very easy walking with almost no climbing

The route

Getting to the trailhead

Gjáin and Stöng are in Þjórsárdalur, reached from Route 32 in the upper Þjórsá valley, northeast of Selfoss. A gravel side road leads to the Stöng parking area; its condition varies and can be rough, so drive carefully in a small car and check road.is before setting off. There is no regular public transport, so a car or a tour is needed.

Where to stay

There are guesthouses, farm stays and campsites in the lower Þjórsárdalur and in the farming districts around Flúðir and Árnes. Selfoss and Hella offer a wider choice of hotels within about an hour's drive. A night nearby makes it easy to add other sights in the valley.

Best time to hike

The walk is possible all year, but the gravel access road can be snowbound or icy in winter, and the gorge is at its greenest from June to August. Spring and autumn are quieter and still pleasant on calm days. In winter, go only with a suitable vehicle and good weather.

Safety

This is a low-risk walk, but the edges above the gorge are steep and unfenced, so keep children close and stay back from crumbling rims. Rocks near the waterfalls are slippery, and ice forms in winter. Stay on paths to protect moss and grass. Mobile coverage can be patchy in the valley. In an emergency call 112, and check SafeTravel.is for weather and travel conditions.