Where is Elliðaárdalur?

Elliðaárdalur is an urban forest valley in Reykjavik, easily accessible from the city center. It runs along the Elliðaá river through a green corridor in the eastern part of the city.

Can I fish for salmon in Elliðaá?

Yes, the Elliðaá is one of the best salmon rivers in the Reykjavik area. Fishing permits are required and can be purchased from the local fishing association. The season typically runs from June to September.

Are the BBQ areas really free?

Yes, Elliðaárdalur has free public BBQ grills available on a first-come, first-served basis. They are popular on summer evenings and weekends, so arrive early for the best spots.

What activities are available?

Jogging, cycling, walking, birdwatching, BBQ areas, playground for children, and salmon river viewing. The paved paths make it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

When is the best time to visit?

Elliðaárdalur works year-round. Summer has the greenest conditions and longest daylight for BBQs and outdoor activities, and in winter you can walk along the frozen river. The forest is always open and free.

Elliðaárdalur: Reykjavik's Forest Valley and Salmon River

An urban forest valley in Reykjavik with birch trees, planted conifers, the Elliðaá salmon river, jogging paths, and free BBQ areas, all a short trip from the city center.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org travel deskEditorial policy

Region

Capital Region

Green valley within Reykjavik. Free access year-round.

Elliðaárdalur is a forested valley that stretches through the eastern part of Reykjavik along the Elliðaá river. Birch trees and planted conifers form a genuine urban woodland, and the river is one of Iceland's better-known salmon fishing spots. Paved paths draw joggers, cyclists, and families year-round, and the free public BBQ areas fill with locals on summer evenings.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

This page is for trip planning. Elliðaárdalur is in the city and always accessible. Check fishing permit requirements if planning to fish.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Official sources to check

Best for

City nature escape

Green woodland and salmon river minutes from downtown Reykjavik.

Access

Very easy

Multiple entry points from Reykjavik streets. Bus accessible.

Pro tip

Summer BBQ

Grab a spot early on sunny evenings; the free grills fill up fast.

What to Expect

Paved jogging and cycling paths through woodland
Elliðaá salmon river running through the valley
Free BBQ grills and picnic areas in summer
Children's playground and family recreation facilities
Accessible paved paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs
Atlantic salmon, visible from the walking paths in summer

Nearby Attractions

Árbær Open Air Museum (historic buildings)
Reykjavik city center (10–15 min drive)
Perlan museum and observation deck
Laugardalslaug geothermal swimming pool complex
Reykjavik Botanic Garden in Laugardalur valley

How to Get There

Located within Reykjavik city limits; enter from Breiðholt, Árbær, or Elliðaárdalsvegur
Strætó city bus routes 5 and 12 stop within walking distance of valley entrances
Free parking available at multiple access points along the valley
Only 10-15 minutes from downtown Reykjavik by car, or 30 minutes by bicycle
Fully paved walking paths throughout, accessible for strollers and wheelchairs

Best Time to Visit

June-August: Lush green canopy, salmon run in Elliðaá river, BBQ areas popular with locals
Year-round: Paths are maintained and accessible in all seasons, always free entry
September-October: Autumn foliage among the birch and imported conifers
May: Spring birdsong returns, early wildflowers, fishing season opens in June
Winter: Walks along the frozen river banks; cross-country skiing is sometimes possible

Planning help

Elliðaárdalur FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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