Plizio Visual Lab

Hítardalur

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

Hítardalur is a wide valley in Western Iceland, deeply embedded in Icelandic history and the world of the sagas. It was once the site of a significant monastery and a wealthy estate that played a central role in the regional administration during the Middle Ages. A tragic event struck the valley in 1148, when a devastating fire claimed the lives of 70 to 80 people, including the Bishop of Skálholt, Magnús Einarsson. This disaster remains one of the largest fire catastrophes in early Icelandic history. The valley is also closely associated with Bjarnar saga Hítdælakappa, which chronicles the feuds and bravery of medieval warriors in the area. Geologically, Hítardalur is renowned for its dramatic rock formations and historical landslides that have significantly shaped the landscape over centuries. The Hítardalsbók, an important 14th-century cartulary, provides valuable insights into the wealth and social organization of this historic site. Today, the valley is a popular destination for hikers seeking untouched nature and the historical echoes of the past.

Location: Iceland
Nearby: Borgarnes (30 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-3	-3	-2	1	5	9	11	10	6	2	-1	-3
Rain mm	126	116	111	95	76	68	84	96	130	114	110	127

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Hítardalur is a historic site with a former monastery area, freely accessible. The ruins and surrounding nature can be visited.

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Typical hours

As it is open land, there are no set opening hours. The best time to visit is in good weather and daylight.

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Photography

The monastery ruins in the wide landscape create atmospheric shots. The historical atmosphere comes through especially in autumn light.

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Time needed

Allow about 30 minutes to an hour for exploring the site. A walk through the valley can extend the time.

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Combine with

Hítardalur is in the West Iceland region and can be combined with the nearby Snæfellsnes peninsula. Hraunfossar waterfall is also not far.

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Getting there

Reach Hítardalur via road 54, which is well signposted. The site is off the main road, a short footpath leads to the ruins.

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Insider tip

Read the story of the giantess Hít - the place is named after her and rooted in sagas. Bring insect repellent as there can be mosquitoes near water surfaces.

Geography

Coordinates

64.76670, -22.25000

Facts

A catastrophic fire in 1148 killed approximately 80 people in Hítardalur.
Bishop Magnús Einarsson was among the victims of the 1148 fire disaster.
The valley serves as the primary setting for Bjarnar saga Hítdælakappa.
The Hítardalsbók, dated 1367, is a crucial record of the estate's historical assets.
Hítardalur hosted a Benedictine monastery during the medieval period.
Historic landslides have created the valley's distinctive geological features.