About

Gjábakkahellir is a lava tube in Borgarfjörður valley, West Iceland, approximately 360 metres long. The cave is located near Reykholt, the historic home of medieval scholar Snorri Sturluson. History: - Used as shelter by outlaws in medieval Iceland - Associated with Grettir the Strong (Grettis Saga hero) - Mentioned in historical records - Free public access maintained Cave features: - Multiple chambers and passages - Lava formations and textures - Some sections require crawling - Headlamp essential (no lights installed) - Temperature constant ~0°C year-round Access: - Road 518 in Borgarfjörður - Parking at cave entrance - No fee, no booking required - Self-guided (no tours) - Safety: Bring headlamp, sturdy shoes, warm clothes - Caution: Uneven floor, low ceiling, slippery sections Gjábakkahellir is one of Iceland's most accessible caves for self-guided exploration. Unlike commercial caves, it's wild and undeveloped — atmospheric but requiring self-reliance. Nearby: Reykholt (Snorri Sturluson's home), Hraunfossar/Barnafoss, Langjökull glacier ice cave tours. Best visited with 2+ people for safety. Not recommended for young children or those with mobility issues.

📖 Story

In medieval Iceland, outlaws declared útlagr faced brutal punishment if caught. Some fled to remote caves like Gjábakkahellir, living like trolls in the darkness. The cave's name refers to the outlaw Grettir the Strong from Grettis Saga, though there's debate whether he actually hid here. Today you can crawl into the same chambers where desperate men once sheltered, headlamp illuminating lava walls untouched for centuries. It's free, dark, and atmospheric — bring lights and caution.

Key Facts