Skógar

Skógar is a rural settlement in southern Iceland, located along Route 1 near the Ring Road, close to the Skógafoss waterfall and the Skógá river between Vík í Mýrdal and Hvolsvöllur. The name Skógar means “groves” or “woods” in Icelandic.

Skógar is best known for Skógar Museum (Skógarsafn), an extensive folk museum established in 1949 that preserves Icelandic rural life and architecture. The outdoor collection features traditional turf houses, wooden farm buildings, a 19th-century church, a forge, and a range of historic farm equipment. The museum also holds photographs, documents, and other archival material illustrating Icelandic life from the 18th to the 20th centuries. Visitors can tour the open-air village, the interior of several buildings, and the church; the site operates year-round with seasonal hours.

In addition to the museum, Skógar serves as a gateway to natural attractions along Iceland’s south coast. The surrounding area includes the Skógá river gorge and the nearby Skógafoss waterfall, with access to hiking routes such as the Fimmvörðuháls trail and other coastal paths. The region has a subpolar oceanic climate, characterized by frequent wind and rain, with relatively mild winters for its latitude but common storms.

Historically, Skógar has played a role in cultural preservation by promoting traditional crafts and rural history education. The site hosts cultural events and school visits and remains a popular stop for travelers exploring Iceland’s south coast.