Iceland has always been a land of stories and storytelling is probably our most important cultural tradition. Plenty of its places have enthralling tales to tell, which in turn have inspired novels, poems and art of all kinds. This book is a round trip around the country, with thirty stops at such places along the way. Some relate to authors or works of literature, others to folk tales or historical events. It doesn’t hurt, either, that they are often set in spectacular locations, as shown in the book with new photos from all the settings. Where a rich cultural legacy and awe-inspiring nature join together – or come into conflict – the stories that emerge are often magical.

DAGUR GUNNARSSON has photographed the locations.
HALLDÓR GUÐMUNDSSON is a writer living in Reykjavík. His biography of Halldór Laxness, which was also published in English, received the Icelandic Literary Prize in 2004.