Þakgil in Iceland: Complete Guide to the Hidden "Roof Canyon"
Hidden away in South Iceland's green valleys, Þakgil (say "THAK-gil") gives you something Iceland's famous Ring Road can't: total peace and quiet. While thousands of tourists take photos at nearby Reynisfjara Beach, this secret spot sits just 20 kilometers away, waiting for people who don't mind a bumpy dirt road to reach paradise.
Key Takeaways
- Getting there: 45-minute drive from main road on bumpy dirt road (SUV works better)
- Best time: Mid-July to mid-September for clear trails and nice weather
- Top trails: Purple Trail (13km, 3-5 hours) for pretty canyons; Red Trail (14km, 4-5 hours) for glacier views
- Staying overnight: 2,800 ISK per night camping; cabins 28,000 ISK per night
- Nearby spots: Combine with Vík town, Reynisfjara Beach, and Dyrhólaey (all within 30km)
- Safety tip: Check weather and stay on marked paths to protect the moss
What's Þakgil?
Þakgil means "Roof Canyon," which makes total sense when you're standing in this sheltered valley with moss-covered cliffs that look like a natural roof over your head. This quiet valley sits near a massive glacier called Mýrdalsjökull and the famous Katla volcano, creating scenery that looks like something from a movie.
There are no buses, no gift shops, and definitely no crowds. Instead, you'll find hiking trails through amazing canyons, a campsite with a dining cave built right into the rock, and views of a huge glacier that'll make you forget all about taking selfies.
The valley has its own mini-climate that's much milder than the rough volcanic areas around it. Small streams flow through bright green moss, waterfalls drop down canyon walls, and the whole place has a magical quiet that's getting harder to find in modern Iceland.
Why Visit Þakgil?
While Iceland's main tourist road brings millions of visitors every year, Þakgil offers something that's getting rare: a real wilderness experience. Here's what makes this hidden valley worth the rough drive.
Get Away from Crowds
While tour buses fill up Reynisfjara Beach and other famous waterfalls, Þakgil stays wonderfully empty. You might see a few other hikers, but that's about it. It's the perfect break from Iceland's busy tourist spots.
Sleep in a Cave
Where else can you eat dinner inside a cave? Þakgil's campsite has a natural dining cave with a grill, fireplace, and metal candle holders.
Hiking for Everyone
The valley has trails for every fitness level, from a quick 15-minute walk to a tough 20-kilometer hike that'll challenge experienced hikers. Each trail shows you different views of the glacier, waterfalls, and canyon walls.
Amazing Photos
The contrast between bright green moss and dark volcanic rocks creates photo opportunities you won't find anywhere else in Iceland. Early morning light coming through the canyon is especially beautiful.
Location & How to Get There
Þakgil sits about 20 kilometers northeast of Vík town in South Iceland. Here's what you need to know about getting there:
Driving Directions
- From the main Ring Road (Route 1), look for the Road 214 sign
- Turn onto the dirt road - you'll drive 16 kilometers to Þakgil
- Drive slowly over bumps and holes (takes about 45 minutes)
- Follow the signs to the campsite for free parking
What Kind of Car Do You Need
You can technically drive there with a regular car in the summer, but an SUV or 4x4 is much better suited. The dirt road has holes, bumps, and can get muddy when it rains. Always check Vedur.is before going.
No Buses
There is no bus to Þakgil, so you will need to rent a car or arrange private transportation. Some people hitchhike from Vík, but you need patience and good weather for that.
Best Time to Visit
The time of the year you choose to visit Þakgil can make your trip amazing or really tough. The valley is far from everything, and Iceland's weather changes fast, so good planning is important.
Best Time: Mid-July to Mid-September
This is when you want to go to Þakgil. Trails are clear, the weather is at its nicest, and you still get plenty of daylight. The campsite is open from early June to mid-September, but conditions are best during these peak months.
Early Summer (June to mid-July)
Trails might still have snow, and the weather can be unpredictable. River crossings on the Red Trail might be harder because of melting snow. Daylight is at its longest thanks to the Midnight Sun.
Late Summer (Late September to October)
The weather becomes more unpredictable, and trails may close due to snow. The campsite usually closes by late September.
Winter
The road closes from October to May because of snow. Winter visits need professional guides and serious cold-weather experience - not good for regular visitors.
Things to Do in Þakgil
Þakgil offers the perfect blend of adventure and serenity. Whether you want challenging hikes with glacier views or quiet moments in nature's cathedral, this valley has experiences you can't find anywhere else in Iceland.
Hiking the Main Trails
Þakgil's trail system is suitable for everyone, from casual walkers to serious hikers. Each path shows you different parts of the valley's landscapes, from close-up canyon walks to wide glacier views.
Purple Trail (Remundargil) - Best for Most People
- Distance: 13 kilometers
- Time: 3-5 hours
- Difficulty: Medium
- Best parts: Pretty canyon, waterfall, doable for most people
This trail gives you the most bang for your buck. You'll see dramatic canyon walls, cross streams, and reach a beautiful waterfall without the tough parts of longer routes. The path goes through the heart of Þakgil's canyon system, showing off the moss-covered cliffs that make the valley feel magical. The waterfall (Remundargilsfoss) at the end creates a perfect place to turn around and take photos.
Red Trail (Mælifell) - For Glacier Views
- Distance: 14 kilometers
- Time: 4-5 hours
- Difficulty: Harder (you cross three streams)
- Best parts: Amazing glacier views, more remote areas
The Red Trail gives you the best glacier views, but you need to cross three streams near the campsite. Bring water shoes and cross where you see the cars. This trail takes you higher up where the valley opens up, showing you sweeping views of the huge Mýrdalsjökull glacier. The western part has the most dramatic viewpoints, while crossing the streams adds adventure that makes this trail different from the easier ones.
White Trail (Huldujökull) - Quick Glacier Look
- Distance: 3 kilometers
- Time: 1-3 hours
- Difficulty: Easiest
- Best parts: Glacier views without a big commitment
Perfect if you don't have much time or want to try Þakgil's hiking without too much work. This short trail gives you great glacier views without the physical challenge of longer trails. The path is well-kept and pretty flat, so families or people who want a gentle introduction to the valley can do it.
Yellow Trail (Austurafréttur) - For Strong Hikers
- Distance: 17 kilometers
- Time: 6-8 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Best parts: Eastern viewpoints, longest single trail
The Yellow Trail is Þakgil's marathon option, taking you deep into the valley's eastern areas. The eastern part is especially scenic, but the full trail requires serious commitment and good preparation. This route shows you how big Þakgil really is, from close canyon sections to wide highland views.
Combined Loop - For Serious Hikers
- Distance: 20 kilometers (Yellow + Red + White trails)
- Time: 6-9 hours
- Difficulty: Very challenging
- Best parts: See everything in one day
Only attempt this if you're an experienced hiker with proper gear and a full day available. The combined loop allows you to see everything Þakgil offers in one epic day, but you need excellent fitness, good navigation skills, and favorable weather conditions.
Ravine Walk - For Everyone
- Distance: 1 kilometer
- Time: 15-20 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best parts: Quick taste of canyon beauty
Starting right from the campsite, this short walk gives you an immediate taste of Þakgil's canyon environment. Perfect for evening walks, morning warm-ups, or when bad weather forbids longer hikes.
Taking Photos and Exploring Nature
The valley's unique climate creates ideal conditions for moss to grow, resulting in surfaces that look like lush green velvet carpets. Best photo spots include:
- Waterfall on the Purple Trail
- Glacier viewpoints on the Red Trail
- Canyon walls around the campsite
- Stream crossings with moss-covered rocks
Important: Stay on marked trails. The moss takes decades to grow back from footsteps, and walking on it destroys this fragile ecosystem.
The Famous Dining Cave
This isn't just marketing - the dining cave is really unique. Built into the rock, this space features a grill, fireplace, and atmospheric lighting, making dining an unforgettable experience. It’s perfect for groups who want to bond over food and stories.
Sleeping and Staying Overnight
Staying overnight at Þakgil turns a day trip into an authentic wilderness experience. The campsite's unique features make it special in itself.
Regular Camping
- Cost: 2,800 ISK per night (ages 12+)
- Booking: First-come, first-serve
- Includes: One shower, use of facilities
- Tip: Come early in busy season to get a good spot
Cottage Stays
- Cost: 28,000 ISK per night
- Fits: Up to 4 people (bunk beds)
- Booking: Need to book ahead
- What you get: Sleeping bag accommodation, nearby facilities
Places to Visit Nearby
Þakgil's location doesn't mean you're stuck in the middle of nowhere. Some of Iceland's most famous spots are within an hour's drive, making it easy to mix quiet with classic tourist stuff.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach (30km)
Iceland's most famous black sand beach has cool rock columns and the big Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and watch out for sneaker waves - they're dangerous and can grab you without warning.
Vík Town (21km)
This charming village makes a great home base for exploring the surrounding area. The church on the hill has amazing ocean views, and local restaurants serve real Icelandic food. The Katla Geopark Visitor Center teaches you about all the volcanoes in the area.
Dyrhólaey (40km)
A scenic cliff with a lighthouse, natural arches, and puffin birds (May-August). The highest point here gives you sweeping views of the black sand beaches nearby, and is perfect for sunset photos.
Hjörleifshöfði (25km)
This old cliff has hiking trails and caves with big views. You need an SUV to get there, and you can combine it with other beach spots.
Practical Tips
Getting ready for Þakgil takes some planning, but nothing too crazy. Here's what you need to know to stay safe and have a great time.
What to Bring
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Good hiking boots
- Water shoes for crossing streams
- Warm clothes (even in summer)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- First aid kit
- Lots of water and snacks
Safety Stuff
- Check the travel conditions at safetravel.is before you go
- Wear waterproof clothes and good hiking boots
- Bring hiking poles for crossing streams
- Take a GPS or satellite phone for long trails
- Turn back if the weather gets bad
Protecting the Environment
- Stay on marked trails to protect the moss
- Don't park on grass or moss
- Take all your trash with you
- Camp only where you're supposed to
Conclusion
Þakgil proves that Iceland still has secrets worth finding. While everyone else waits in line for photos at the famous waterfalls, you'll be hiking through moss-covered canyons, camping in old caves, and seeing the raw beauty that first put Iceland on adventurers' maps.