Vatnajökull National Park
Bringing the glacier closer
Services
Web design, UX, analytics, development, content architecture
About the project
The nature and cultural heritage surrounding Vatnajökull are truly unique—shaped by volcanic activity and a climate where warm and cold ocean currents meet. This combination has created a diverse and ever-changing environment that allows visitors to experience the Earth's raw power up close. Vatnajökull National Park attracts thousands of visitors each year.
To provide a better visitor experience and ensure access to information about nature, hiking routes, and accessibility, there was a need for a more powerful and user-friendly website. The goal was to share educational content, encourage environmental protection, and simplify the application process for permits and research.
Hugsmiðjan was chosen for the project due to its expertise in digital solutions for public institutions and tourist destinations. With a focus on accessibility, a clear user experience, and a technically robust solution, Hugsmiðjan ensured that the new Vatnajökull National Park website supports conservation, education, and an enriching visitor experience.
Journey
Guests on the website can explore various outdoor activities, and discover park areas, destinations, visitor centers, and services like campgrounds and cabin accommodations. Educational resources on climate change and its effects on Iceland's glaciers are also available.
The goal of the new website was to allow the stunning nature to shine through and captivate users. We looked at different target groups and defined the website's goals and functions. A thorough analysis enabled us to prioritize users and guide them effectively with well-organized content based on their needs.
Discovery with design thinking
Easy access to nature
The website's structure and layout were redesigned from the old site to facilitate user navigation. All content was rewritten with a focus on lighter material, complemented by beautiful images from the park. We see the website as an electronic visitor center where people can find information and insights about the park. Nature and history are at its heart, and the website aims to show that through the use of color, fonts, and photographs.
Technical approach
Content management
The Prismic content management was chosen for the project. Development of the hiking path functionality involved use of mapping data from the National Land Survey of Iceland.
Content development
Nature shaped by hidden forces
Vatnajökull National Park encompasses the entire glacier, large surrounding areas, and nearby municipalities. On the new website, you can plan your trip by exploring these areas, choosing visitor centers and selecting suitable hiking trails for the whole family.
You’ll find travel advice and safety information, including details about closed trails or other warnings due to natural hazards, as much of Vatnajökull National Park is situated in highlands where the weather changes rapidly.
Highlight what matters to the user
We had high expectations for Hugsmiðjan, and we feel the new website meets them. We are incredibly pleased with the solutions provided by Hugsmiðjan, which highlighted what matters most to the user from the vast pool of content. Communication between us was smooth, and it was important to us how well they explored our material and wishes, consistently finding solutions and opportunities. We look forward to further developing the website with Hugsmiðjan to serve both nature and people, with dedication and vision.
Stefanía Ragnarsdóttir, park officer
Awards and recognitions
Public Website of the Year