Elliðaárdalur Valley - green and brown mountains under white clouds
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Elliðaárdalur Valley

4.8
·430 reviews·Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavik's unexpected forest oasis, offering lush trails, a charming waterfall, and a peaceful natural escape within the city.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunny days

Nature truly shines

CrowdLow
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Elliðaárdalur Valley - green and brown mountains under white clouds

Elliðaárdalur Valley

Best Time

Sunny days

Nature truly shines

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Reykjavik's unexpected forest oasis, offering lush trails, a charming waterfall, and a peaceful natural escape within the city.

4.8
(430 reviews)

"A fantastic little hidden gem, right in the middle of Reykjavik!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🌳 Embrace the Forest

Enjoy the surprisingly tall trees and lush greenery, a unique forest experience in Iceland. :deciduous_tree:

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Waterfall Views

Don't miss Kermóafoss waterfall; its beauty is a highlight for many visitors. :water_wave:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kermóafoss Waterfall

Kermóafoss Waterfall

Within Elliðaárdalur

A picturesque waterfall nestled within the valley, offering a serene and beautiful natural spectacle.

Lush Forest Trails

Lush Forest Trails

Throughout Elliðaárdalur

Wander through surprisingly tall trees and vibrant greenery, creating a unique forest atmosphere in Iceland.

Riverfront Walks

Riverfront Walks

Along the Elliðaá River

Enjoy peaceful strolls alongside the river, surrounded by wildflowers and the fresh Icelandic air.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Green Oasis

Discover Elliðaárdalur, Reykjavik's surprising forest escape. It's a hidden gem offering lush trails, a beautiful waterfall, and a refreshing natural atmosphere right within the city limits. Perfect for a peaceful walk or bike ride.

Getting to Nature's Doorstep

While close to Reykjavik, reaching Elliðaárdalur requires a bit of planning, especially if coming from Keflavík. Public transport is available, but routes can be indirect. Consider local buses or a short taxi ride for convenience.

Best Times

When
Sunny days
Why
Nature truly shines
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Elliðaárdalur bus and trail

🌳 Embrace the Forest

Enjoy the surprisingly tall trees and lush greenery, a unique forest experience in Iceland. :deciduous_tree:

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Waterfall Views

Don't miss Kermóafoss waterfall; its beauty is a highlight for many visitors. :water_wave:

reddit.com

Iceland-Reykjavik-Help Hidden Gems/Hotspots

reddit.com

Planning to Propose

🚴‍♀️ Bike or Hike

The valley offers excellent trails for both walking and biking adventures. :athletic_shoe::bike:

☀️ Best on Sunny Days

The park's natural beauty is amplified by sunshine, making it ideal for a bright day out. :sunwithface:

reddit.com

Nature around Reykjavik

Tips

from all over the internet

🌳 Embrace the Forest

Enjoy the surprisingly tall trees and lush greenery, a unique forest experience in Iceland. :deciduous_tree:

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Waterfall Views

Don't miss Kermóafoss waterfall; its beauty is a highlight for many visitors. :water_wave:

🚴‍♀️ Bike or Hike

The valley offers excellent trails for both walking and biking adventures. :athletic_shoe::bike:

☀️ Best on Sunny Days

The park's natural beauty is amplified by sunshine, making it ideal for a bright day out. :sunwithface:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(430 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Elliðaárdalur as a surprisingly beautiful and tranquil forest park within Reykjavik, offering a refreshing natural escape with lovely trails and the charming Kermóafoss waterfall. It's a hidden gem that provides a peaceful respite from the city.

"Amazing park, hard to believe you’re in Iceland at times, so many trees, some quite tall!"

Bruce Farmer

"A lovely forest park that's not too far from Reykjavik. It's got cool trails for both walking and biking as well as a beautiful waterfall called Kermafoss."

Ayon Ibrahim

"Very beautiful park, the scenery at the waterfalls (Kermóafoss) is splendid"

Mantidactyle Dendrobate

What People Like

Beautiful forest scenery
Peaceful atmosphere
Kermóafoss waterfall

What People Dislike

Can be tricky to access via public transport

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Elliðaárdalur is accessible by public bus from Reykjavik. Bus routes like 55 can get you close to the park. For specific stops and routes, check the Straeto app or website. Reddit

Getting to Elliðaárdalur directly from Keflavík can be tricky. You might need to take the Flybus or a combination of buses, potentially involving a transfer in Reykjavik. Reddit

Yes, driving is an option, and there are parking areas available within or near the valley. This offers more flexibility for exploring.

While there isn't one single 'Elliðaárdalur' stop, several bus routes stop near the park entrances. It's best to use a journey planner for the most convenient stop based on your starting point. Reddit

It's a bit of a walk, likely over an hour, from downtown Reykjavik. Taking a bus or a short taxi ride is more practical for most visitors.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Elliðaárdalur is a public park and is free to enter. You can explore its trails and natural beauty without any admission fee.

Elliðaárdalur is open 24/7, as it's an outdoor natural park. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are best for enjoying the scenery.

Kermóafoss waterfall is located within Elliðaárdalur, and there is no separate entrance fee for the waterfall itself. Entry to the park is free.

While there aren't typically official guided tours for Elliðaárdalur itself, many Reykjavik-based tour operators might include it as part of a broader city nature tour.

As a natural park, visitors are encouraged to respect the environment. Stick to marked trails, avoid littering, and be mindful of the flora and fauna.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The valley offers a network of trails, including paths along the river and through the forest. Many are well-maintained and suitable for casual walks. Look for signs indicating different routes.

Yes, Elliðaárdalur is popular with cyclists, featuring dedicated trails that are great for mountain biking and leisurely rides. Reddit

You might spot various bird species, and if you're lucky, small mammals. The focus is more on the diverse plant life and the tranquil atmosphere.

Basic facilities like picnic tables are available in some areas. Restrooms might be limited, so it's advisable to plan accordingly.

You can spend anywhere from an hour for a quick walk to several hours if you plan to hike or bike extensively and enjoy the scenery.

📸 📸 Photography

Kermóafoss waterfall is a prime spot. The forest paths, especially with dappled sunlight, and the riverbanks also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.

Absolutely. The contrast between the green forest, the flowing river, and the waterfall provides diverse landscape photography options.

Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunny days highlight the vibrant greenery.

Drone regulations in Iceland can be strict. It's essential to check current local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the park.

Capture the unique Icelandic forest scenery, the charming Kermóafoss waterfall, and the peaceful river flow. The wild flowers in season are also lovely subjects.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Elliðaárdalur is a fantastic spot for families looking for an easy nature escape within the city. The gentle walking trails are perfect for little legs, and the Kermóafoss waterfall provides an exciting natural feature to discover. The open spaces and forest areas offer plenty of room for kids to explore and burn off energy in a safe environment. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated spots, making it a fun and affordable outing. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers

For those who love a good walk, Elliðaárdalur offers a network of well-maintained trails that wind through diverse scenery. You can opt for a short, leisurely stroll along the river or embark on a longer hike through the forested areas. The variety of landscapes, from open fields to dense woods, ensures an engaging experience. Don't forget to seek out the Kermóafoss waterfall for a picturesque break. Reddit

🚴‍♂️ Cyclists

Elliðaárdalur is a haven for cyclists, boasting dedicated bike paths that are ideal for both casual riders and mountain bikers. The terrain offers a good mix of flat sections and gentle inclines, making it enjoyable for various skill levels. It's a great way to cover more ground and experience the full extent of the valley's natural beauty. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Elliðaárdalur's Natural Beauty

Elliðaárdalur is a remarkable urban oasis, often surprising visitors with its dense forests and tranquil atmosphere, a stark contrast to the typical Icelandic volcanic landscapes. The valley is carved by the Elliðaá river, which flows through it, creating a serene environment perfect for leisurely walks and nature observation. The presence of numerous trees, some quite tall, makes it feel like a true forest escape, a feature that many reviewers highlight as a pleasant surprise. Reddit

One of the key attractions within the valley is Kermóafoss waterfall. While not as grand as some of Iceland's more famous waterfalls, Kermóafoss offers a beautiful and accessible natural spectacle. The surrounding area is ideal for photography and simply enjoying the sounds of cascading water. The trails here are well-maintained, catering to both casual strollers and more active hikers, and the diverse flora, including wildflowers in season, adds to the valley's charm. Reddit

For those looking for active pursuits, Elliðaárdalur is also a popular spot for cycling. The network of trails is suitable for various skill levels, offering a great way to cover more ground and experience the different facets of the valley. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a scenic walk, or an active outdoor adventure, Elliðaárdalur provides a refreshing natural experience right on Reykjavik's doorstep.

Navigating to and Around Elliðaárdalur

Reaching Elliðaárdalur requires a bit of local knowledge, especially if you're relying on public transport. While it's located within Reykjavik, it's not directly in the city center, meaning a bus or a short taxi ride is usually necessary. Bus route 55 is often mentioned as a way to get close to the park, but it's crucial to check the latest schedules and routes via the Straeto app or website for the most efficient journey. Reddit

For visitors arriving from Keflavík Airport, the journey can be more complex. It typically involves taking the Flybus or a combination of public buses, often with a transfer in Reykjavik. This means factoring in extra travel time and potentially multiple ticket purchases. Renting a car or taking a taxi directly from the airport, while more expensive, offers the most direct and convenient access to the valley. Reddit

Once inside Elliðaárdalur, the trails are generally well-marked, making it easy to navigate on foot or by bike. The valley is designed for exploration, with paths leading to key points of interest like Kermóafoss waterfall. Parking is available for those who choose to drive, providing a convenient base for exploring the park's various sections.

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