ÁRNES
Árnes is a growing settlement located approximately 100 km from Reykjavík and is part of the Golden Circle region. It offers a range of facilities, including the Árnes community center, Þjórsárskóli school, Neslaug swimming pool, a guesthouse, campsite, and a local store. A new sports hall is expected to be opened around mid-2026. Árnes takes its name from the island of Árnes in the Þjórsá river.
Árnes is the least populated center in the Uppsveitir area of Árnessýsla before heading into parts of the Icelandic Highlands, such as Sprengisandur, Fjallabak, and Landmannalaugar.
Many beautiful natural attractions can be found in the vicinity of Árnes, including Þjórsárdalur valley, Gjáin canyon, Hjálparfoss waterfall, and Háifoss waterfall. There are numerous scenic hiking trails in Þjórsárdalur and the nearby Þjórsárdalur forest, making the area ideal for outdoor recreation.
The area is also rich in history, with sites such as Stöng and the reconstructed Commonwealth-era farm located nearby.
A video introducing the municipality of Skeiða- og Gnúpverjahreppur can be viewed here.