Known as “Sacred Hill” in English, this small sloping mound is an important historical site whose holiness that extends beyond its size. Despite its unassuming stature, Helgafell overflows with captivating stories that simply cannot fit into a single paragraph. In one saga, Helgafell is said to be the gateway to afterlife, where dying Icelanders would make pilgrimages to. In another, Helgafell is the resting place of Guðrún, the focal point of the tragic love triangle that is the Laxdæla saga.

For first-timers, Helgafell is the perfect place to embark on a quest for good fortune. According to tradition, those who visit for the first time have to start from Guðrún’s grave at the foot of the hill and proceed without a single word or glance backwards. Finally at the summit, you have to face east and make three wishes – you can’t tell anyone! Afterwards, there is much to explore – from the breath-taking panoramic views of the surrounding plains and nearby lake, to the ancient wall that is allegedly part of a monastery, to the fascinating view-dial! With more heart and soul than tangible land, there is more to the sacred Helgafell than it seems.