Audio Guide of Skinnalon Nature Reserve

As an open-air nature reserve, it is accessible 24 hours a day, but access depends on road conditions. You can get there from Thórshöfn by taking the road toward the Langanes Peninsula; I recommend always checking road conditions at road.is before setting out.

Access to the reserve and the ruins of the old farm is completely free. You can enjoy the landscape and history at no cost, which is common in many natural areas of northern Iceland.

In general, a stop of 45 to 60 minutes is enough to explore the ruins, walk along the coast, and enjoy the desolate and magical atmosphere. It is an ideal visit to combine with a longer tour of the peninsula.

Skínnalón was one of the richest farms in the area thanks to the abundance of driftwood and seal hunting. Today, its ruins are a fascinating testimony to a life of survival and prosperity in Arctic isolation.

Summer, from June to August, is the best time, as the roads are passable and you can enjoy the midnight sun. In winter, access may be impossible because of snow on the Langanes Peninsula.

Unfortunately, it is not an accessible site; the terrain is uneven, with tall grass and stony ground. In addition, there are no paved walkways, so a certain level of mobility is required to explore the area safely.

You are on the route to the impressive Skoruvíkurbjarg cliffs, famous for their birdwatching platform. You can also continue to the Fontur Lighthouse at the far tip of the peninsula. More information at Visit North Iceland.

It is vital to fill up your fuel tank in Thórshöfn before entering the peninsula, as there are no gas stations farther ahead. Also, bring waterproof and windproof clothing, as the weather in Langanes changes very quickly. For safety, register your plan at SafeTravel.