Hobbitastígur og Vífilshlíð – stutt útgáfa Running trail

This route is a short, easy version of the Hobbitastígur run in Garðabær and suits beginners in trail running or those wanting a shorter session. The route starts by the east end of Vífilsstaðarhlíð a area protected since 2007 and known for its rich bird and animal life. It runs up the lower part of Hobbitastígur, well known to local runners, and through the lower part of Vífilsstaðahlíð, but this version omits the upper part of the path and the steepest sections that the longer route covers. The surface is mostly compacted soil paths and good gravel paths that run well. The route is an approximately 5.5 km loop with little elevation, only around 50 metres, making it comfortable and accessible. Vífilsstaðahlíð is sheltered and green, making it ideal in windy weather. Garðabær has built good facilities here, with parking, benches, information signs and maps at the access points. On summer days there is some traffic on the paths, both walkers and cyclists, so take care. As the area is partly a nature reserve, treat the environment with care; dogs are prohibited in the reserve during the nesting season. Those wanting a longer, more challenging route can choose the 8 km version of Hobbitastígur and Vífilsstaðahlíð.