When is the best time to visit?

Summer (June-August) offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. However, each season offers unique beauty.

Is this place wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility varies by location. Major tourist sites often have paved paths, while more remote areas may require hiking.

Do I need to book in advance?

Most natural attractions in Iceland are open access and free. No booking is needed unless it involves a guided tour.

Iceland/north-iceland

Stórurð

Stórurð, meaning 'Giant Boulders', is one of East Iceland's most spectacular hidden gems — a magical landscape of enormous glacier-deposited boulders, crystal-c…

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At a Glance

Visit time

4–5 hours including hike

Best season

June–September

Access

Accessible by car on paved or gravel roads. Some require short hikes.

GPS

65.5120, -13.9788

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About

About Stórurð

Stórurð, meaning 'Giant Boulders', is one of East Iceland's most spectacular hidden gems — a magical landscape of enormous glacier-deposited boulders, crystal-clear turquoise pools and vivid green moss high in the mountains above Borgarfjörður Eystri. The approach hike takes 2–3 hours each way through dramatic mountain terrain and is considered one of the most rewarding day hikes in Iceland.

Discover one of Iceland's most captivating natural wonders

Background

History & Background

Stórurð has been a significant site in Iceland's landscape. Throughout the years, this location has played an important role in Icelandic culture and natural history.

Stórurð is one of the most interesting natural attractions in east-iceland of Iceland.

Folklore

Story & Folklore

Stórurð (The Giant Boulders) in Borgarfjörður Eystri is Iceland's best-kept hiking secret — a hidden highland basin filled with enormous smoothed granite boulders, between which lie clear turquoise pools of snowmelt and glacier-fed streams. The setting is almost impossibly photogenic: Arctic wildflowers grow between the rocks, ravens and ptarmigan nest among the boulders, and on clear days the surrounding peaks are reflected in the pools. The hike (3–4 hours return) from Vatnsskarð descends to the basin through birch scrub and rocky terrain. Borgarfjörður Eystri village, at the trail base, is known for having one of Iceland's best accessible puffin colonies at Hafnarhólmi.

Local Legend

Legends of Stórurð

Stórurð has been part of Icelandic folklore for generations. Local tales speak of hidden people (huldufólk) and other supernatural beings who inhabit the area. According to tradition, this place deserves respect and visitors should be mindful of the ancient spirits who call it home.

Experiences