Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/lakes/thorisvatn Content updated: 2026-09-10 This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article. --- # Þórisvatn: Highland Reservoir A highland reservoir in the treeless central interior, enlarged for hydroelectric power. Its shoreline varies with reservoir conditions. Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org]() · [Writing & review]() Location Central Highlands Highland reservoir · Check road access ## Quick Answer Þórisvatn is a highland lake enlarged as a hydropower reservoir. Its water feeds the Vatnsfell system; road access depends on highland conditions. Þórisvatn is a large highland lake in Iceland's remote interior, originally a natural lake that was expanded through damming in the 1970s to serve the Búrfell hydroelectric power station. At roughly 570 meters above sea level, the lake is surrounded by barren, windswept highlands with glaciers on the horizon. Almost nothing grows here, and the solitude is the kind that defines the Icelandic interior. Sources and page update Updated: 2026-09-10 This guide is a travel-planning summary, not emergency guidance. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly; check official alerts, roads, and weather before driving, hiking, or booking around volatile conditions. For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy. Official sources to check - [Road status]() - [SafeTravel]() - [Icelandic Met Office]() - [Environment Agency of Iceland]() Surface Area Variable Reservoir level affects the shoreline; an undated area is not a current measurement. Primary Use Hydroelectric Power Feeds the Búrfell power station via the Þjórsá river system. Access 4x4 Required Highland F-roads only. Typically open late June to September. ## What to Expect ### Remote Highland Wilderness This is Iceland's interior at its emptiest. The landscape is barren and vast, with sparse vegetation and visible power infrastructure. ### Fishing Access The lake is known among anglers for large brown trout. Confirm permission, access and the current fishing rules with the rights holder. ### Glacial Panoramas On clear days, views extend to the Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull glaciers. ### Hydroelectric Heritage The dam and infrastructure show how Iceland harnessed its glacial rivers for renewable energy. ### Birdlife on the Shores Despite the remote location, the lake attracts birds including great northern divers and wading species during summer. ### Midnight Sun Solitude In June and July, long daylight extends the evening, but access and weather still determine a sensible outing. ## Getting There Þórisvatn is accessible via highland F-roads from the south, typically via the Sprengisandur route (F26) or from the Landmannalaugar area. A sturdy 4x4 vehicle is essential as the roads involve river crossings and rough terrain. The lake is approximately 200 km from Reykjavik as the crow flies, but the drive takes significantly longer due to road conditions. Highland roads are generally open from late June to September depending on weather. There are no fuel stations or services in the highlands, so bring all supplies. ## Best Time to Visit Þórisvatn is only accessible during summer when highland roads are open, typically from late June through September. July and August offer the best conditions with relatively mild weather and the longest window of accessible roads. Early summer brings midnight sun and the start of the fishing season. September can offer early northern lights but roads may close unpredictably due to early snowfall. Always check road.is for current highland road status before departing. ## How Þórisvatn connects the reservoirs [Landsvirkjun]() describes Þórisvatn as the collecting reservoir for water from Kvíslarveita and Hágöngulón. Kaldakvísl was diverted into its northern side, with a controlled outlet to the south, during the 1970–72 hydropower works. Water leaves through the Vatnsfell canal and power station toward Krókslón and the downstream stations. That explains the engineered landscape and why the waterline is not fixed. Treat canals, gates and operational roads as infrastructure, not recreational access. Planning help ## Þórisvatn FAQs Quick answers with safety notes where it matters. **Is Þórisvatn a natural lake or a reservoir?** Þórisvatn is both. The natural lake was incorporated into the hydropower system in 1970–72. Its surface area varies with the managed water level. **Can you visit Þórisvatn?** Yes, but access requires a 4x4 vehicle as Þórisvatn is located in the central highlands along highland roads (F-roads). The lake is typically accessible only from late June through September when highland roads are open. **Is there fishing at Þórisvatn?** Þórisvatn is known for its brown trout fishing. Confirm the current fishing arrangements before planning an angling visit. A fishing permit is required and can be arranged through local fishing associations. **How remote is Þórisvatn?** Very remote. The lake sits in the central highlands at about 570 meters elevation with no permanent settlements nearby. There are no services, fuel stations, or accommodations at the lake. Visitors must be fully self-sufficient. [Back to Lakes]() Country reference: [Iceland statistics]().