Waterfall and Magical House Combo
- Enjoy a brief exploration of Akureyri's standout attractions
- Observe Goðafoss waterfall, the Old Turf house - Laufas and the Magical House of Christmas
- Pick-up and entrace fee for Laufas Turf House Museum included
Tour departs from
Duration
Available
Pick up / meeting point
Languages
Difficulty
Season
Overview
This tour begins with a visit to the majestic Goðafoss waterfall. Your guide is equipped to share everything you desire to know about the Icelandic people including their heritage, sense of humor, and the local area while answering any questions you may have. Following the waterfall exploration, we head to the historic Laufás turf house, and then to the enchanting Christmas House.
What's included?
Guide
Transport
Entrance fee for Laufas Turfhouse Museum
Food and drinks
What to expect?
This tour promises a rich historical exploration coupled with enchanting experiences for all family members, ensuring a delightful and memorable day for all.
Tour highlights:
Goðafoss Waterfall is situated in the glacial river Skjálfandafljót and stands as one of Iceland's grandest waterfalls. This river houses several other waterfalls including Ullarfoss, Barnafoss, Hrafnabjargarfoss, and Aldeyjarfoss. Goðafoss holds a significant place in Icelandic history, notably tied to a legend where the local chieftain Þorgeir cast pagan god statues into the waterfall to symbolize the nation's conversion to Christianity. Hence, Goðafoss translates to "waterfall of the gods".
Laufás is set by Eyjafjörður’s estuary, near the river Fnjóská. This old farm showcases the traditional residence of affluent clergy in times past. The existing turf-clad timber building dates back to the middle ages and has seen numerous reconstructions, with the latest structure erected between 1860 and 1877. This farmhouse remained inhabited until 1936 and later came under the protection of the National Museum's Historic Building Collection in 1948, transforming it into a museum. The artifacts here, accrued mainly from neighboring farms in the early sixties, offer visitors a glimpse into the life of early 20th-century Icelanders. Noteworthy is the pulpit in the Laufás church crafted in 1698, while the church itself was built in 1865, standing as a testimony to the aspirations of the then custodians.
The Christmas House is a year-round open attraction that seems straight out of a fairy tale, offering a garden laden with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. The interior welcomes you with a cozy log fire accompanied by festive songs and scents. Even the restroom here is a sight to behold! Engage in a fun hunt to find Gryla, Santa's troll mother hidden in her cave. This house promises a magical experience for family visitors of all ages with its warm and festive atmosphere.
Good to know
Tour duration varies between 3 and 4 hours.
What to bring
Weather-appropriate clothes
Warm hat and gloves
Good hiking shoes