Nestled in the rugged landscapes of East Iceland, near the town of Hofn in Hornafjordur, lies a captivating slice of cinematic history – the Viking Village film set. This meticulously crafted replica of an authentic Viking village was created as a movie set for a Universal Studios production, offering visitors the chance to step back in time and immerse themselves in the world of Norse mythology and adventure.

The Viking Village boasts an array of wooden structures with grass roofs, meticulously designed to capture the essence of a bygone era. From longhouses to blacksmith shops, every detail reflects the craftsmanship and attention to historical accuracy that went into its creation. As visitors explore the set, they can’t help but marvel at the fine detailing and immersive atmosphere that transports them to a distant time and place.

Located on a local farmer’s property, the Viking Village is easily accessible by car, with a short walk from the Viking Cafe near the Stokksnes peninsula. Open year-round, the site welcomes visitors eager to delve into Iceland’s cinematic past and witness the magic of movie-making up close.

Upon arrival, visitors can pay a small entrance fee at the cafe to access the film set, where they’re free to wander at their leisure and soak in the ambiance of this Viking-inspired world. From strolling through the village streets to peeking inside rustic dwellings, there’s no shortage of opportunities to explore and discover hidden gems around every corner.

But the Viking Village is more than just a static film set – it’s a living testament to Iceland’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring allure of Norse mythology. Over the years, it has served as a backdrop for various productions, including the Netflix series “The Witcher” and the upcoming film “Vikingr” directed by Baltasar Kormákur. Each new project breathes fresh life into the village, ensuring its legacy as a beloved tourist attraction and cinematic landmark.

As visitors wander through the Viking Village, they can’t help but feel a sense of wonder and nostalgia for a time long past. Whether they’re history buffs, film enthusiasts, or simply curious travelers seeking adventure, a visit to this enchanting film set promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of East Iceland’s cinematic past.

• The Viking Village is not a historical ruin but a film set, built in 2010 for a planned movie project by Icelandic director Baltasar Kormákur.

• The film was never completed due to funding problems, but the set remains – a complete replica of a Viking settlement, with turf houses, a chieftain’s hall, and wooden stockades.

• Despite being unfinished, it is considered one of the most authentic-looking Viking villages in Iceland, designed with input from historians and built with traditional materials.

• It has since been used as a backdrop for smaller film and TV projects, photo shoots, and even music videos.

• The site is privately owned, and access is part of the same entrance fee system as the Stokksnes peninsula and Vestrahorn beach.

• Weathering by the harsh Atlantic winds has given the wooden structures an aged, rugged look – so much so that some visitors believe it is a genuine archaeological site.

• Because it was intended for film close-ups, many of the buildings are hollow shells, with interiors unfinished or propped up only as façades.

• The “village” provides a unique contrast to the radar station nearby: one representing Iceland’s Viking Age mythos, the other its Cold War history.