Discovering Iceland’s Viking Village Film Set
There have been images appearing on social media recently suggesting the Vesturhorn Viking Village Film Set is a real Abandoned Viking Village, I’m here to tell you… it’s not. However, it’s still an incredible tourist attraction that you can actually visit.
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A Hidden Gem in East Iceland
Driving down a gravel road off the main route between Höfn and Djúpivogur, visitors will find a Viking village in pristine condition. This site, however, is not an ancient relic but a film set built in 2010. Originally intended for an Icelandic movie that never materialized, the set now stands as a testament to meticulous craftsmanship.
The Origins and Future of the Film Set
A local farmer owns the land where the set is located. For a small fee, he allows visitors to explore the area. Universal Studios plans to use this set for a film by Icelandic director Baltasar Kormákur, scheduled to debut next year.
The Unfilmed Movie and Future Productions
The original movie never filmed due to funding issues. Recently, Universal acquired the rights to produce “Vikingr,” with some filming set to take place at this location. Netflix also announced plans to use the set for “The Witcher: Blood Origins.”
Exploring the Village
Upon passing the local Viking Café, visitors will see the settlement in the distance. Horses graze nearby, adding to the authenticity. Once inside the village walls, guests can roam freely, observing the detailed craftsmanship.
Architectural Marvels
The village buildings mimic period architecture magnificently. Guests can open wooden doors to find rooms that look almost real. The settlement also features a dungeon beneath an artificial boulder, adding to the historical ambiance.
Practical Information for Visitors
From Höfn, head east for about three miles on Road 1. Turn off onto a gravel road for half a mile to reach the café, where you pay an 800 ISK entrance fee. The film set is a 10-minute walk from there. ### Features of the Viking Village The village features wooden structures with grass roofs, similar to traditional Icelandic turf houses. Intricately carved door frames and a dungeon beneath a constructed boulder add to the authenticity. Visitors can learn about Viking construction methods and the effects of grass roofs.
Year-Round Attraction
The Viking Village film set is open year-round. The same family that owns the land also operates a café where visitors can pay the entrance fee. This lesser-known attraction fits well into summer explorations, especially for those also visiting black sand beaches.
Conclusion
The Viking Village film set offers a unique glimpse into Viking life and film set craftsmanship. Whether you’re a history buff or a film enthusiast, this East Iceland attraction is worth the visit.
Sources:
Guide to Iceland
Iceland the beautiful
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