Kerlingarfjöll Mountain Range Epic Hike

Kerlingarfjöll is one of Iceland's most valuable natural attractions. It is situated on the Central Highlands and is component of an active volcanic scheme that features one of the most captivating geothermal regions in Iceland. Kerlingarfjöll is famous for summer hiking and winter snowmobiling or snowshoeing. Read our full guide to find out more about its exciting natural attractions, hot springs, hiking trails and amenities.

The Kerlingarfjöll region varies significantly from the surrounding setting. It is a 10,000-year-old mountain range located in the shadow of Hofsjokull Glacier in the Central Highlands. The mountain range is component of a big, 100 km2 (39 square mile) volcanic system with a peak of 1,477 meters (4,846 feet) high. 

Kerlingarfjöll is renowned for its scenic rhyolite hills overlooking tiny glaciers where snow and ice meet increasing steam towers. Minerals that arose from the hot springs color the floor red, yellow, and green. The hills in the passing light continually alter color, creating an enchanting atmosphere and an unforgettable landscape. 

These characteristics make Kerlingarfjöll one of Iceland's most valuable natural attractions. The Kerlingarfjöll region of 367 square kilometers was proclaimed a protected nature reserve in 2017. Today, this exceptional place is famous for summer hiking and winter snowmobiling or snowshoeing. Kerlingarfjöll is component of an active volcanic system and has three big geothermal regions. Hveradalir, the "warm springs valley," is the most well-known of them and is situated within the mountain range. It is one of Iceland's biggest and most captivating geothermal fields.

Hveradalir is discovered some 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from Ásgarður Valley's Highland resort. In summer, you can either walk from the hotel or drive to a parking lot near the geothermal area.

The range of colors and the landscape are amazing. The site features strange tuff stone pillars and lots of amazing marks from volcanic activity. Steaming vents, clay geysers and bubbling hot springs can be discovered throughout the valley, which in turn is surrounded by yellow and red rhyolite hills, soft valleys and snowy mountain slopes.

The region is somewhat reminiscent of Landmannalaugar, another geothermal oasis in southern Iceland. Landmannalaugar is much more well-known from the two places and therefore more commonly visited while Hveradalir remains a distant hidden jewel.

In Kerlingarfjöll there is a hot spring appropriate for bathing. It is situated in a tiny valley about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) from the hotel. The trail is labeled and follows a tiny river. Originally, it was a test drill to find out if there was enough warm water to heat the buildings. The geothermal pool is made of rocks and can accommodate 10 to 15 individuals. The water is rich in iron and has a temperature of around 34-37 ° C (93-38 ° F) with the warmest places in the center.

There are no changing facilities, so it's a good idea to bring a drybag with you to maintain your clothes dry while bathing. Please make sure you don't leave any waste, swimsuits or underwear behind after using the pool.