Helgafell

Helgafell is the holy mountain that figured so prominently in Icelandic history and literature, though in reality it’s a 73m (240ft) hill. The first Icelandic þing, or legislative assembly, met here in the 9th century, but it was later moved to the flat promontory Þingvöllur after assembly members defiled the sacred mountain with their toilet ablutions.

The mountain apparently still retains some of its magic, and those who follow a few simple rules while climbing it are entitled to have three wishes granted.

First, you must climb the southwest slope to the temple ruins without speaking or glancing backwards. Second, the wishes must be for good and made with a guileless heart. Third, you must descend the eastern slope and never reveal your wishes to anyone.