The Wilderness Center A Gateway to the Highlands of Iceland Hiking – Guiding – Riding – Meals – Accommodation
In June 2016 the Wilderness Center opened its exhibitions on life in and near the highlands. The extended exhibition area reaches as far the top of the hills behind the Center, as well as to the abandoned farm Kleif, about 3 km up the valley. Various farm buildings are turned into exhibition spaces. Upon entering the Center, the visitor embarks on an adventure, backwards in time. The exhibitions lend the Wilderness Center a unique setting.Step into the pastVisiting the Wilderness Center is an adventure. As soon as guests park their cars and cross the old wooden bridge at the Wilderness Center, they step into the past. Every detail at the premises has been remade in the original style to make the visitor feel as if taking part in an adventure of the past. The buildings, interior decorations, food, activities and hosts all play a vital role in this experience. The accommodation offered is integrated into the museum, and thus our guests spend both night and day in the “Wilderness World.”
Join us for an unforgettable horseback ride to the abandoned farm of Kleif, surrounded by Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, take time to enjoy the scenery and fresh air. For those feeling adventurous, you can even try crossing the Jökulsá River using a traditional cableway, a fun and memorable challenge!Riding an Icelandic horse is an experience everyone should try. It gives a unique feeling of freedom and a special way to explore nature, whether you are a first-time rider or experienced in horseback riding. After the ride, you can relax in our Old Farmhouse and enjoy a homemade lunch or cake buffet on request.Each horse is carefully chosen to match the rider, ensuring both safety and enjoyment. The full experience takes about 3 hours, including choosing and saddling the horses and a stop at the abandoned farm.Family tours for children aged 6–10 are available in the calendar. Please note that these tours are slightly shorter, lasting approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.Would you like a fully private tour? We’d be happy to arrange it—just contact us at info@wilderness.is
A pleasant family hike destined for the abandoned farm of Kleif where we will take time to absorb the beautiful surroundings and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or coffee. Those who dare can try their hand at winching themselves across the Jökulsá river by a traditional cableway.
MOUNTAIN BIKE RENTALMountain bike rental at the Wilderness CenterBiking is a great way to enjoy the nature and tranquil atmosphere of East Iceland. Either wondering along old trails in the peaceful valleys or curving along animals trails on the highland plateau, enjoying spectacular views.We rent out high quality hard tail mountain bikes in varying sizes.The price for one day rental is: 6000.-isk per bike. Kids bike 4000.-isk per bikeRental hours are from 09:00 – 17:00. every day, for late drop off there is an extra fee of 1000.-isk then you can have the bike until midnight.Included in rental is a helmet.Creditcard number is needed for insurance upon arrival.
Treat yourself to a truly relaxing escape with our Authentic Spa Experience, designed to make you feel completely at peace with nature. Set in the beautiful wilderness, this experience combines the best of traditional Icelandic spa rituals with modern comforts.Begin by unwinding in our Finnish sauna, where the gentle heat helps release stress and soothes your muscles. Then step outside and immerse yourself in the warm outdoor pool, heated to perfection, while enjoying stunning views of the untouched wilderness. The peaceful valley around you creates a serene atmosphere, helping you truly disconnect and find calm.For the ultimate refreshment, take a dip in the cold plunge pool outside. This invigorating experience helps cool and refresh your body after the heat of the sauna, leaving you feeling revitalized and energized.Inside the spa, you'll find a hammock where you can relax and unwind, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. This special space offers a perfect place to rest and reflect in a tranquil environment, embracing the traditional Icelandic spa vibe.Every detail of this experience is designed to help you relax, recharge, and reconnect with yourself – whether you're looking for peaceful moments of solitude or a way to refresh after a busy day.
The Icelandic Wilderness Center is located at the edge of the wilderness by the Jökulsá river which boasts around 15 waterfalls, large and small. No other river in the country has as many waterfalls, and the river’s vertical drop is around 600 meters in only 30 kilometers. After experiencing the Wilderness Exhibition, the walk takes you to the abandoned farm of Kleif, and soon you will catch sight of the lowest of the waterfalls. Daring souls can try their hand at winching themselves across the Jökulsá river by a traditional cableway. As you walk along the river, the falls appear one after the other. You’ll follow a marked trail through a birch wood. The walk from the Center to the Laugarfell Highland Hostel takes about 6 hours. At the hostel you can relax in an outside pool of warm spring water.
Explore travel itineraries created by Óbyggðasetur Íslands / Wilderness Center to inspire your next adventure.
