Gljúfrasteinn

Gljúfrasteinn is a white residence on a hill beside the Kaldakvísl river, now open to the public as a museum. The rooms contain manuscripts, photographs, and personal objects that show how the household operated and functioned during its occupied years.

The house was built in 1945 by architect Ágúst Pálsson for its original resident. A decade later, its occupant received the Nobel Prize in Literature, bringing international attention to the property.

The walls display works by twentieth-century Icelandic artists, creating an artistic environment that reflects the cultural circle surrounding the residents. These paintings show the visual taste and connections of the household during its time.

The residence sits roughly 4.5 kilometers from the Thingvellir junction and is accessible by car from Reykjavik area. Guided tours run during opening hours, and visitors should wear comfortable shoes as the surrounding terrain can be uneven.

The interior remains preserved exactly as it was during the resident's lifetime, with the living room serving as a performance space. International musicians regularly played there during cultural gatherings and social events held at the house.