Sæluhús by river Jökulsá
The refuge by Jökulsá á FJöllum was built in 1883 from locally sourced stone. Timber, chalk, cement, and other construction materials for the house were transported all the way from Vopnafjörður, Húsavík, and Akureyri with the help of numerous individuals.
At that time, around the turn of the century, new ideas about construction techniques were emerging in Iceland, and the construction of stone houses was a novelty. Stone-built houses began to appear in Northeast Iceland, including Þverárkirkjain Laxárdalur (1878) and the clergyman's residence at Sauðanes (1879). The construction of the Alþingi building in Reykjavík in 1881 played a somewhat influential role here, contributing to the increase in stone houses across Iceland.
The low-ceilinged basement was used as a stable for horses. However, the use of the house did not turn out as expected due to rumours that it was haunted. These rumours described animals inside the house as large as young cattle, hairy, and monstrous. The house is part of Advent a novel by Gunnar Gunnarsson, recounting the travels of Benedikt Sigurjónsson.
Guests are welcome at their own responsibility. Please take care of the house and surroundings when visiting.
