Discover Iceland’s Central Highlands

Iceland’s Central Highlands offer a captivating landscape, characterized by elevated terrains and formed through volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. This unique area is particularly tricky to navigate in winter, as access is restricted to those equipped with certified tour vehicles capable of handling F-roads. However, come summertime, the roads become accessible, though a four-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended due to Iceland’s unpredictable weather patterns. Nestled in the Southern Highlands within Fjallabak Nature Reserve, Landmannalaugar is surrounded by mountain ranges and volcanic history, resting next to the Laugahraun lava field, filled with lava rocks from a 1477 eruption.

While you can experience the region’s vast geological features in just a day, allocating two to three days is advisable for a thorough exploration. If you’re not inclined to hike on your own, several bus tours are available, offering access to some of the most iconic sights along the journey.

History of Landmannalaugar

The Landmannalaugar region is renowned for its hiking opportunities and natural hot springs, perfect for rejuvenating tired legs. Initially, these springs were frequented by Iceland’s original settlers traversing the Central Highlands. Today, this area attracts both locals and tourists, particularly during the summer months.

How to Get There

Traveling from Reykjavik to Landmannalaugar involves a scenic three-hour drive along Route 1 until you reach Landmannaleið. For a more picturesque journey, consider taking Sigölduleið, where you’ll encounter a variety of sights, including hot springs and the Bláhylur lake inside a volcanic crater. For the most breathtaking views, Road F208 off Route 1 is a must-visit, although it poses the greatest challenges in terms of navigation.

This region is ideally visited while heading south from Reykjavik, as it’s about the same travel time from other locations like Vík and the Glacier Lagoon along the eastern coast of the island. Thus, planning a stop at Landmannalaugar en route to the north may result in extended travel times.

What to Expect

Landmannalaugar features stunning rhyolite mountains, known for their vibrant colors ranging from red and pink to blue and goldenrod. For any hiking enthusiast, this area is a true paradise; therefore, proper footwear is essential. During your visit, expect to encounter ancient magma formations, hot springs, valleys, waterfalls, craters, and volcanoes.

Activities in Landmannalaugar

This region truly caters to hikers. Trails vary significantly in length, with options for both short hikes and multi-day adventures. The Laugavegur trail is a highlight, offering a challenging hike through volcanoes, rivers, canyons, and colorful mountainsides until you reach the famous Thorsmork area. Cabins and huts are available for rest along the route. Alternatively, the four-day hike from Landmannalaugar to Lake Álftavatn provides stunning scenery for those looking for a nearby lake experience.

If you prefer shorter hikes, don’t miss the trek to Hrafntinnusker, a prominent mountain that can be completed in three to four hours over a seven-and-a-half-mile trail. The trail to Frostastadavatn lake is another quick option with spectacular vistas. For additional hiking information in Landmannalaugar, resources like KimKim can be very helpful.

For breathtaking views of the colored hillsides, be sure to visit Brandsgil Canyon. Ljótapollur, meaning “Ugly Puddle,” is a fascinating red crater that certainly deserves a visit despite its unassuming name.

Hot springs are another major attraction in this area, specifically the springs located along the edge of the Laugahraun lava field, which is also the site of the local accommodation options.

If waterfalls are on your list of must-see natural wonders, Landmannalaugar offers the gorgeous Ófærufoss, conveniently located near the famed Eldgjá fissure, also known as the “Fire Canyon.”

Nearby Attractions

When traveling from Selfoss or nearby areas, consider driving through Thingvellir National Park. This historic site served as Iceland’s parliament location from the 10th to 18th centuries, showcasing an array of stunning lava formations along the way. The total drive from Thingvellir National Park to Landmannalaugar is nearly three hours.

Accommodation Options

For hikers, several huts are strategically located along popular trails for comfortable lodging. One particular mountain hut, managed by Ferðafélag Íslands, tends to fill up quickly, often requiring early planning. For more information on rates and availability, be sure to visit the accommodation’s official website.