Búðardalur in 1 Day for Families - Sit beside the fire inside a fully furnished replica Viking longhouse
In Collaboration with History up close - Eiríksstadir living history museum. Updated on February 12, 2026.
Sit by the fire in a fully furnished replica Viking longhouse at Eiríksstaðir while historian guides tell the Sagas and explain daily life for 10th‑century settlers. Learn about household roles, survival techniques, and the family story of Eiríkr and Leif.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with History up close - Eiríksstadir living history museum, inspired by the tour Experience the Settlement Period Farm of Eirik the Red and Leif Eiriksson. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Sit beside the fire inside a fully furnished replica Viking longhouse
- Guided storytelling of the Icelandic Sagas linked to Eiríksstaðir
- Hands-on look at everyday tools, textiles, and household practices from the 10th century
- See the ruined original farm site beside the replica
- Learn about the roles of women and survival methods used by early settlers
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival at Eiríksstaðir and the longhouse living-museum experience. The full activity is 1 hour from meeting to departure.
Meet at Eiríksstaðir (orientation & arrival)
Gather outside the replica longhouse; guide meets the group, gives a short orientation, safety notes about the indoor fire, and explains the sequence of the visit.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 5–10 minutes early to allow time for parking and to assemble the group; the site has limited parking near the entrance.
- Supervise young children near the longhouse entrance—there is stepped access; bring a lightweight stroller if needed but expect a short step up.
- If anyone in your group has mobility needs, inform the guide on arrival so they can seat you near the longhouse entrance and provide space with minimal steps.
Longhouse experience: storytelling and guided demonstration
Enter the replica longhouse. Guides recount the Sagas and describe daily life in the 10th century while showing tools, fabrics, and household items. Guests may see, touch, and smell recreated materials as part of the demonstration.
Tips from local experts:
- The longhouse interior is heated by an open central fire—dress children in layers and avoid loose synthetic outerwear near open flames.
- There is limited space inside the longhouse; keep backpacks on your lap or in front of you to maximize seating room for families.
- Photography is allowed but be mindful of low light and the proximity to the fire; use quiet voices so all children can hear the storytelling.
Brief walk around the ruins and wrap-up
Short guided stop at the ruined original farm site beside the replica. The guide answers questions and suggests further nearby points of interest in Búðardalur for families.
Tips from local experts:
- The ruined site is outdoors and may be uneven underfoot—children should wear closed-toe shoes and be supervised on low stone features.
- This is a good moment for a restroom break before leaving; plan a short stop as facilities are limited.
- Allow 5–10 minutes at the end for questions and photos; if you need more time on site, mention it to the guide so they can advise on quiet times.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 3 |
| Total Places | 3 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Culture |