Viking
story night

The sagas are central to Iceland’s identity. They tell the story of how Iceland was settled and how early communities lived together. Long before Iceland had castles or kings, it had stories. The sagas preserved history, values, and reputation, and they remain a way for Icelanders to understand their past and themselves.

The sagas are based on real people and real places, but they are told as stories shaped by memory and oral tradition. Historical accuracy matters, but what matters more is how the stories explore human behavior, choices, and consequences.

Njál’s Saga is considered one of the most important Icelandic sagas because of its depth and humanity. It explores friendship, loyalty, law, honor, and conflict, and shows how small decisions can lead to lasting consequences. Many Icelanders feel it speaks just as clearly today as it did centuries ago.

Early Iceland did not have kings or a centralized government. Instead, society was built around local leaders and laws, which were preserved and passed on through stories. That is why Icelanders often say: In Iceland, we do not have castles — we have sagas.

In a society shaped by isolation and harsh nature, stories were how people remembered laws, families, disputes, and history. Being remembered — and remembered fairly — mattered deeply.

Belief in elves and trolls is part of Icelandic folklore and has existed alongside Christianity for centuries. These stories helped explain the landscape and natural forces and taught respect for places that were considered powerful or unpredictable.

In Iceland, folklore often exists between belief and symbolism. Many Icelanders do not fully believe or disbelieve in elves — they leave space for possibility and for respect toward the land.

The stories are told by Valdimar Flygenring, a local Icelandic storyteller. He shares stories from Njál’s Saga, as well as Icelandic traditions and folklore passed down through generations.

The evening is held at Mr Iceland – Efri-Úlfsstaðir, a working farm in South Iceland and the traditional home of Njál’s Saga.
– Coordinates: 63.6406° N, 20.2957° W
– 15 minutes from Hvolsvöllur
– Approx. 1,5 hours from Reykjavík

Guests meet the Icelandic horses, sit together at a long table, share traditional Icelandic food, and listen to stories told in a calm, intimate barn setting.

Small tastings are served, including hákarl (fermented shark), dried fish, smoked lamb, Brennivín, and Icelandic malt drink.

No. Everything is told in English and is easy to follow, even if this is your first introduction to Icelandic history or folklore.

Approximately 90 minutes.

Yes. The evening is suitable for adults and older children who enjoy storytelling and cultural experiences.

Warm clothing is recommended. The experience takes place in a historic farm barn. Wool capes are available to wear during the evening if you wish.

Yes. Bookings must be made at least 2 hours before the event begins. Seating is limited to keep the evening intimate.