Sænautasel
Reconstructed remote Highland farm beside Sænautavatn offering a glimpse into the harsh lives of Iceland’s former heathland settlers.
About Sænautasel
Sænautasel was first settled in 1843 and remained inhabited for around 95 years in total before abandonment in 1943. The farm was rebuilt in 1992 and now welcomes summer visitors. Inside, guests can learn about daily life on the remote Jökuldalsheiði farms and enjoy simple traditional refreshments. The area is often associated with the landscape and farming life depicted in Halldór Laxness’s novel Independent People.
Our practical tips
✓Try the traditional refreshments if they are being served.
✓Combine Sænautasel with Sænautavatn and Skessugarður.
✓This is much more rewarding if you spend a little time learning about the people who once lived on Jökuldalsheiði.
Getting there and visiting
Access
Located on Jökuldalsheiði via Road 907. The farm is normally open to visitors during June, July and August. Access is seasonal and remote.