Travel Guide
Local attractions: Your Iceland Adventure Starts here.
This guide is designed to help you make the most of your visit. From breathtaking waterfalls and fascinating geological sites to charming local restaurants and hidden gems, the surrounding area offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences. Dive into the natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality of Hvolsvöllur and beyond. Let us help you plan your perfect Icelandic adventure!
Solheimasandur Plane Wreck
The ocean with dramatic and cool waves is in walking distance from the wreck so if you have extra time then that is something I also recommend.
Landmannalaugar
Landmannalaugar is a place in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve in the Highlands of Iceland. It is at the edge of Laugahraun lava field, which was formed in an eruption around the year 1477.
Keldur Turf House
The historical buildings at Keldur are the oldest house in Iceland. It was the home of the Viking Ingjaldur and it has alot of history from the last war of Iceland.
Bucketlist Trips
MUST-SEE SOUTH COAST DESTINATIONS
From thundering waterfalls to glacier lagoons, these are the top destinations within easy reach of Sky Retreat. All directions start from our cabins.

Seljalandsfoss
13 kmWaterfall
One of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls, where you can walk behind the 60-meter curtain of water for a truly unique perspective. Best visited in the golden hour for spectacular photos.
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Reynisfjara
39 kmBlack Sand Beach
The world-famous black sand beach with dramatic basalt column formations and the towering Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Be cautious of the powerful sneaker waves — they are stronger than they look.
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Dyrhólaey
37 kmArch & Viewpoint
A massive rock arch jutting into the Atlantic, offering panoramic views of the black sand coastline and Mýrdalsjökull glacier. A prime spot for puffin watching from May to August.
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Jökulsárlón
184 kmGlacier Lagoon
A stunning glacier lagoon where massive icebergs calve from Breiðamerkurjökull and float toward the sea. Boat tours take you among the icebergs. Often called the "Crown Jewel of Iceland."
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Diamond Beach
184 kmBeach
Crystal-clear icebergs washed ashore on jet-black volcanic sand — like scattered diamonds. Located right across from Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, best at sunrise or sunset for incredible photos.
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Skógafoss
14 kmWaterfall
A powerful 60-meter waterfall that often produces a single or double rainbow on sunny days. Climb the 527 steps to the viewing platform for breathtaking views along the Skóga River trail.
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Sólheimajökull
24 kmGlacier
An accessible outlet glacier of the mighty Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. Glacier walks depart from the parking area year-round — a surreal experience of walking on ancient blue ice and crevasses.
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Gullfoss & Geysir
88 kmGolden Circle
Two Golden Circle highlights in one trip: Gullfoss, a thundering two-tiered waterfall plunging into a rugged canyon, and the Geysir geothermal area where Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes.
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Fjaðrárgljúfur
83 kmCanyon
A dramatic 100-meter deep canyon carved by glacial rivers over millennia. Walk along the rim trail for jaw-dropping views into the lush, winding gorge below. Made famous by Justin Bieber's music video.
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Vestmannaeyjar
16 km to ferryWestman Islands
A volcanic archipelago off the South Coast, home to the world's largest Atlantic puffin colony. Visit Eldfell volcano (erupted 1973), the Eldheimar museum, and enjoy the charming island town.
Get DirectionsHidden Gems
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
These lesser-known spots near Sky Retreat are where the locals go. Fewer crowds, authentic experiences, and landscapes you won’t find in the guidebooks.

Þríhyrningur
~30 km to trailheadMountain Hike
A striking three-peaked mountain near Þórsmörk offering a challenging but rewarding hike with panoramic views of glaciers, volcanoes, and highland valleys. Best attempted in summer with proper gear and hiking experience.
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Keldur Turf House
34 kmHistoric Site
One of Iceland's oldest medieval turf farmsteads, dating to the 12th century. Features a remarkable underground escape tunnel from the Saga Age — a fascinating glimpse into centuries of Icelandic rural life.
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Kvernufoss
~15 kmHidden Waterfall
A beautiful 30-meter waterfall tucked behind Skógar Museum, often missed by tourists rushing to nearby Skógafoss. A 15-minute walk from the car park leads you right behind the falls — far fewer crowds than its famous neighbor.
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Írárfoss
3.8 kmWaterfall
A lesser-known waterfall in the Rangárþing area, framed by lush green moss and dramatic basalt formations. Rarely visited by tourists and located right off Route 1, making it a perfect peaceful stop along the way.
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Skógasandur
~16 kmBlack Sand Landscape
A vast black sand outwash plain where the Skógá river meets the Atlantic, stretching from Skógafoss to the coast. Hauntingly beautiful and desolate, with sweeping views of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers.

Álfakirkjan í Fljótshlíð
~40 kmRock Formation
The "Elf Church" — a remarkable rock formation in Fljótshlíð valley that folklore says is a sacred site for Iceland's hidden people (huldufólk). Reach it via a 4×4 track from Fljótsdalur, with stunning views of Eyjafjallajökull.
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Stóri Dímon
16 kmMountain Hike
A distinctive flat-topped tuya mountain formed by a volcanic eruption under a glacier during the Ice Age. The short but steep hike rewards you with 360° views of the Markarfljót valley and the South Coast.
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Seljavallalaug
~4 kmGeothermal Pool
One of Iceland’s oldest swimming pools, built in 1923 and nestled in a narrow mountain valley. Fed by a natural hot spring, this pool offers a magical bathing experience surrounded by mossy cliffs. A 15-minute walk from the car park.
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