Holmatungur is a well vegetated area on the western side of the canyon of the glacial river Jokulsa in the National Park Jokulsargljufur. It is decorated with beautiful basaltic column formations and silver lined, with cascading brooks and streams from rich cold springs. In Hólmatungur, are spots with luxuriant vegetation.  The florid Holmatungur is the home of many basalt columns.  Abundance of springs originate from Holmatungur and Gloppuhellir cave is also worth visiting.
Holmatungur is regarded one of the most impressive locality for hiking to be found on the island. It is a delightful hiking area between Hljodaklettar and Mt. Thorunnarfjall (2½-3 hours). From there many people continue to the mighty waterfall Dettifoss further south.

According to the legend, a widow, who lived in the lowlands, decided to try to escape the bubonic plague, which struck the country in the past.
She and her people moved to Holmatungur with provisions to last them a long time. When they were on the brink of starvation the shepherd was slaughtered but not eaten, because the widow, who was a stocky woman, decided to move back home. She was afraid, that she might be the next one on the menu. The distance from the capital is about 570 km and 100 km from Husavik.