Iceland
Hiking in Landmannalaugar: A Hidden Gem in Iceland’s Highlands
My sister and brother in law stopping for river water along our hike.
Iceland is breathtaking. It’s genuinely one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. While the Golden Circle might be the most famous tourist route, some of the country's most incredible natural wonders lie off the beaten path. One such place is Landmannalaugar, nestled in the heart of the Icelandic Highlands. While it may take some effort to get there, requiring travel on rugged F-roads and crossing rivers, the rewards are totally worth it.
Getting There: A Lil Adventure
Reaching Landmannalaugar isn’t as simple as following a well-paved highway. The area is only accessible via F-roads, which are rough, gravelly, and often require vehicles to ford rivers. A 4x4 vehicle is a necessity just in case the rivers are muddy or full, and those unfamiliar or uncomfortable with river crossings should consider joining a guided tour. But for those willing to make the journey, the drive itself is part of the adventure, offering stunning views of untouched wilderness. My family and I made the trip on our own in a rental with no regrets!
A Landscape Like No Other
One of the most striking features of Landmannalaugar is its vividly colored rhyolite mountains. The mineral-rich soil creates an extraordinary palette of blues, reds, oranges, yellows, and greens, making it look like a painting. These colors shift and change with the light and moisture, offering an incredible experience that is unique to this part of Iceland.
If you’re lucky you’ll see the Icelandic Horses while you explore! They’re short, hardy, and have thick hair that I admit being a little jealous of. They were probably jealous of my height so we’re even.
Family-Friendly Hiking and More
While another hike in Iceland is my favorite, I have to give Landmannalaugar a special mention. The area offers a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes like the famous Laugavegur Trail. Even younger hikers can enjoy shorter loops that still showcase the breathtaking landscapes.
Beyond hiking, Landmannalaugar is home to natural geothermal hot springs. There were people soaking in them after a day of trekking. Soaking in the warm water, they were surrounded by rugged mountains, sheep and the raw beauty of Iceland.
One of the natural hot springs that feed the warm soaking pools.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic spot to spend an afternoon, this hidden gem in Iceland’s highlands is well worth the journey—just make sure your car (and your nerves) are up for the adventure.