Sönghellir

Sönghellir, meaning "Song Cave" in Icelandic, lies tucked away in the lush birch forests of Þórsmörk valley, just minutes from the Volcano Huts in Húsadalur. This ancient lava tube, formed during a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, has become one of the valley's enchanting hidden features, discovered by hikers exploring the trails around Valahnúkur mountain. The cave takes its name from the remarkable acoustic properties created by its unique rock formations and hollow chamber. 

Unlike the more famous Sönghellir cave on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, this Þórsmörk cave remains relatively unknown outside of those who hike extensively in the valley. Its location deep in the highlands, accessible only to those who have made the challenging journey to Þórsmörk, ensures that it retains a sense of discovery and adventure. The cave sits surrounded by bright green moss and the distinctive landscape features that make Þórsmörk so special. 

The cave formed when lava flowed through this area during an ancient volcanic eruption. As the outer surface of the lava flow cooled and hardened, the still-molten interior continued flowing, eventually draining away and leaving behind a hollow tube. Over thousands of years, portions of the roof collapsed, creating the crevasse entrance that visitors see today. Large boulders that have fallen from the steep cliffs above now partially block the opening, adding to the cave's dramatic appearance. 

The entrance to Sönghellir appears as a large crevasse laden with massive rocks. To access the cave interior, visitors must climb up these boulders and carefully inch their way through a hole beneath a large rock lodged in the opening. This requires some scrambling and flexibility, but the effort rewards those who make it inside with a chamber large enough to walk around comfortably. The cave's interior features fascinating rock formations, with water dripping from the roof creating a small waterfall that adds to the atmospheric quality of the space. 

The lava tube structure creates the acoustic properties that give the cave its name. Sounds echo and resonate within the chamber in unusual ways, amplifying voices and creating an otherworldly auditory experience. Visitors often sing or speak inside the cave to test the echoes, finding that even quiet sounds become magnified and enriched by the natural acoustics. 

The path to Sönghellir begins at the Volcano Huts and leads into the birch woods behind the distinctive Ássa rock that towers above the accommodation area. The trail follows a small, often dry creek bed deeper into the forest, passing the "Elf Rock," which according to Icelandic folklore serves as an opening to the kingdom of the hidden people. This connection to Iceland's rich tradition of elf beliefs adds a layer of cultural interest to the natural wonder of the cave itself. 

The trail continues into a small canyon, becoming progressively narrower as hikers approach the cave. The surrounding vegetation grows thick here, with moss covering rocks and birch trees creating a canopy overhead. The sheltered position and moisture from the dripping water create ideal conditions for the lush growth that characterizes this part of Þórsmörk. 

The entire walk from the Volcano Huts to the cave takes only about 5 minutes of actual hiking, though most visitors spend 15 to 20 minutes completing the circular route that allows exploration of the cave and a loop around the Ássa rock. This short distance makes Sönghellir an ideal addition to other hikes in Þórsmörk, particularly when combined with the climb to Valahnúkur summit or explorations of the Merkurrani plateau. 

Many hikers visit Sönghellir as part of the popular Valahnúkur trail, one of Þórsmörk's most celebrated hikes. After climbing to the 458-meter summit of Valahnúkur and enjoying the spectacular 360-degree panoramic views, hikers descend via a route that passes directly by the cave. The descent takes approximately 1 kilometer from the summit to the cave entrance, with the trail winding down through the birch forest. 

This positioning makes the cave a natural stopping point for those completing the Þórsmörk Panorama loop, a popular 4.2-kilometer trail that showcases the valley's main landscapes. The cave provides a dramatic contrast to the open mountain views from Valahnúkur's summit, offering an intimate, enclosed space where the focus shifts from vast vistas to acoustic phenomena and the intricate details of volcanic rock formations. 

The combination of summit views and cave exploration creates a satisfying hiking experience that captures different aspects of Þórsmörk's appeal. The openness and exposure of the mountain peak gives way to the sheltered, mysterious atmosphere of the lava tube, demonstrating the diversity of experiences available within a small geographic area. 

For hikers completing the demanding Laugavegur Trail from Landmannalaugar, the final day in Þórsmörk often includes shorter, more relaxed hikes like the visit to Sönghellir. After days of challenging trekking through exposed highlands, the gentle walk through birch forest to a hidden cave provides a fitting conclusion to the journey. The cave's acoustic properties invite visitors to pause, make sounds, and listen to how the natural chamber transforms their voices. 

The sheltered nature of the cave and its surrounding canyon creates a sense of protection and calm. Away from the wind and weather that dominate the highland experience, visitors can sit quietly and appreciate the geological forces that created this space and the vegetation that has colonized its entrance over the millennia. The dripping water, green moss, and enclosed feeling create an almost meditative atmosphere. 

Many guides leading groups through Þórsmörk include Sönghellir in their final day itineraries, recognizing that the cave offers something different from the valley's other attractions. Where Valahnúkur provides sweeping vistas and Tröllakirkja presents dramatic rock formations, Sönghellir offers intimacy and acoustic wonder, rounding out the Þórsmörk experience with its unique character. 

While the cave is relatively accessible, visitors should exercise caution when climbing the boulders at the entrance and squeezing through the opening. The rocks can be slippery, especially when wet, and the entrance requires some agility to navigate safely. Once inside, the floor is uneven with loose rocks that require careful footing. 

The cave is best visited during summer when the Þórsmörk valley is most accessible and weather conditions are favorable. The birch forest path can be muddy after rain, and the rocks at the cave entrance become more treacherous when wet. Visitors should wear proper hiking boots with good grip and be prepared to use their hands for balance while climbing over the entrance boulders. 

The cave does not require special equipment like helmets or headlamps, as enough light filters through the entrance for safe exploration. However, bringing a small flashlight can help visitors see the details of the rock formations and navigate the darker corners of the chamber.