Region
North Iceland
290 km from Reykjavik
Dalsmynni: Heart of Skagafjordur Horse Country
A peaceful agricultural settlement in North Iceland's Skagafjordur district, surrounded by horse farms and close to the historic Glaumbaer turf farm museum.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Population
~50
North Iceland • Skagafjordur District
Dalsmynni is a small farming settlement nestled in the Skagafjordur district of North Iceland, a region where Icelandic horses outnumber people and the pastoral landscape has changed little over centuries. This quiet valley community offers visitors an authentic glimpse of Icelandic agricultural life, with the renowned Glaumbaer turf farm museum nearby and some of the country's best horse riding experiences on the doorstep. Skagafjordur's wide valleys, braided rivers, and mountain-ringed pastures create one of Iceland's most serene and quintessentially Icelandic landscapes.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Population is approximate for this dispersed rural settlement.
Sources to check
Population
~50
Small farming community in Skagafjordur
Known for
Horse Country
Near Glaumbaer turf farm museum
Top Attractions near Dalsmynni
Glaumbaer Turf Farm Museum
One of Iceland's best-preserved traditional turf farmsteads, dating from the 18th-19th century. The museum showcases how Icelanders lived for centuries in these ingenious sod-roofed buildings.
Skagafjordur Horse Riding Tours
Experience the unique five-gaited Icelandic horse on rides through valleys, along rivers, and across highland pastures. Tours range from one-hour beginners' rides to multi-day highland treks.
Jokulsá River Rafting
White-water rafting on the glacial rivers Jokulsá Austari (East) and Jokulsá Vestari (West) offers Class 3-4 rapids through dramatic canyon scenery with experienced local guides.
Drangey Island
A dramatic bird cliff island in Skagafjordur bay, accessible by boat from Reykir. Famous from the Grettis Saga as the outlaw Grettir's last refuge, and home to vast puffin and seabird colonies.
Holar i Hjaltadal
A historic bishopric and Iceland's first university seat, now an equestrian and agricultural college. The beautiful stone cathedral dates from 1763 and the site has been culturally important since the 12th century.
Skagafjordur Heritage Museum
Located in Saudarkrokur, this museum covers the district's rich history from Viking settlement through the Age of Sturlungs to modern farming. Includes exhibits on the 1238 Battle of Orlygsstadir.
How to Get to Dalsmynni
From Reykjavik: Drive north on Route 1 (Ring Road) through the Hvalfjordur tunnel and past Blonduos to Skagafjordur. The 290 km drive takes approximately 3.5-4 hours on well-maintained paved roads. Turn off Route 1 near Varmahlid to reach Dalsmynni and Glaumbaer.
By bus or air: Strae.is operates bus services along the Ring Road with stops in Varmahlid and Saudarkrokur. Domestic flights from Reykjavik to Saudarkrokur airport are available but infrequent. A rental car is strongly recommended for exploring the Skagafjordur countryside.
Best Time to Visit Dalsmynni
Summer (June-August): The ideal time to visit when the valley is lush and green. Horse riding tours operate at full capacity, Glaumbaer museum is open daily, river rafting runs, and the midnight sun provides nearly 24 hours of daylight. The annual Skagafjordur horse competitions are a highlight in late June.
Winter (October-March): The snow-covered landscape has a stark beauty, and horse riding is available year-round from some farms. Northern lights are frequently visible in the dark skies. Some museums have limited hours. Roads are maintained but winter driving conditions require caution and proper tires.
Planning help
Dalsmynni FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.