north iceland
Glaumbær Turf Farm Museum
About Glaumbær Turf Farm Museum
One of Iceland's best-preserved turf farmsteads, showing traditional life from the 18th-19th centuries. From the Viking settlement era through centuries of resilience, places like this serve as tangible links to Iceland's past. The historical significance of this location is enhanced by its setting in the striking Icelandic landscape, creating a meaningful experience for visitors interested in history and culture. For centuries, most Icelanders lived in turf houses like those at Glaumbær. These thick-walled buildings, half-buried in the earth with grass growing over their roofs, provided shelter from Iceland's harsh climate using the most readily available materials: turf, stone, and driftwood. Walking through Glaumbær is like stepping back 200 years — low ceilings force you to stoop, narrow passages wind between rooms, and the air inside is cool and earthy. The farm was inhabited until 1947, then preserved as a museum. It is one of the finest examples of traditional Icelandic architecture still standing. Visitor Information: This site is located in North Iceland, Iceland. As a historical, it provides visitors with a distinctive experience of Iceland's remarkable natural and cultural heritage. What to Expect: - A unique historical experience in one of Iceland's most scenic regions - Opportunities for photography and exploration - Connection to Iceland's natural landscape and cultural heritage - Accessible during the main tourist season (June-September) - Can be combined with other nearby attractions in North Iceland Best Time to Visit: The site is most accessible during summer months (June-August) when daylight hours are longest and weather is mildest. However, each season offers its own unique character — winter brings possible Northern Lights, while spring and fall offer fewer crowds. Nearby: Explore other attractions in North Iceland to make the most of your visit to this beautiful region of Iceland.
🐉 The Ghost of Mödrudalur
In the remote highlands near Mývatn, stories are told of a ghostly shepherd who appears during fierce snowstorms to guide lost travelers to safety. Known as the Friendly Ghost of the North, this spirit is said to be a farmer who perished in a blizzard centuries ago but chose to remain between worlds to help others avoid his fate. Those who have encountered him describe a figure in old-fashioned clothing who appears suddenly in the worst weather, pointing the way to shelter before vanishing. The legend embodies the Icelandic values of hospitality and looking after fellow travelers in a harsh land.
📖 History of Glaumbær Turf Farm Museum
This site in North Iceland stands as a witness to Iceland's rich and eventful past. Iceland's history begins with the Norse settlement around 870 AD, led by figures like Ingólfur Arnarson, who established the first permanent settlement in Reykjavík. The medieval period saw the creation of the Alþingi parliament in 930 AD, the adoption of Christianity in 1000 AD, and the writing of the great Icelandic sagas. This site connects to these broader historical currents, preserving stories and memories from centuries past. Through periods of Norwegian and Danish rule, natural disasters, and eventual independence in 1944, places like this have served as anchors for Icelandic cultural identity.
✈️ Why Visit
Walk through 13 interconnected turf buildings — Iceland's best-preserved example of traditional farm architecture.
💡 Did You Know?
Glaumbær's turf houses were inhabited continuously from the/11th century until 1947 — over 850 years.
Key Facts
Built 18th-19th centuries
13 interconnected turf buildings
Inhabited until 1947
National Museum of Iceland site
Period-costumed interpreters
💎 Hidden Gems
Saga Connections
Research which Icelandic sagas mention this area before your visit to this attraction.
Reading the relevant saga passages brings the site alive and connects you to events that happened here over 800 years ago.
Landscape Reading
Try to imagine what this place looked like during the settlement era — fewer roads, more birch forests, similar mountains.
The natural landmarks remain largely unchanged, meaning you're seeing much of what the original settlers saw.
Local Heritage Centers
Nearby heritage centers or information boards often have additional context about the site.
Local communities preserve detailed knowledge about their area's history that enhances your understanding.
🕐 Best Time
Summer (June-August) for full opening hours
🚗 Access
Most historical sites are accessible by car with nearby parking.
⏱ Duration
30 minutes to 1 hour
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entrance fee?▾
Many historical sites in Iceland are free to visit. Some may have a small fee or request a donation for upkeep.
Are there information signs in English?▾
Most popular historical sites have information boards in both Icelandic and English.
Can I visit year-round?▾
Most outdoor historical sites are accessible year-round. Indoor exhibitions may have seasonal hours.
📍 GPS Location
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🌌 See the Northern Lights
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