2 minute read

LET'S GO HIKING

A walk in Iceland always takes a particular character. Its nature gives itself to heart to surprise us: fields of lava, deserts of ashes, inescapable glaciers, sand swept by the winds... And the climate, far from being an ally, confuses by its instability: it is not rare to see the 4 seasons in the same day!

In other words, you will rarely be able to afford random walks across the country. First, because it can be dangerous and, second, because nature is so fragile that you could disturb its balance.

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As for the hikes, rest assured that there is something for every type of calf. From small walks to big ones (Skaftafell, Hveravellir, Landmannalaugar...) often marked and traced, from one hour to several days.

Hot River 1.

Reykjadalur Hot Springs is one of the most beautifully set natural hot springs in Iceland. Surrounded by mountains and steaming vents, the temperature ranges from 36°C – 40°C. The thermal springs are located 3 kilometres from the parking area, so you also get to enjoy a hike up to the valley. It should take around 1 hour to reach the bathing spot.

2. Waterfalls

Glymur : Iceland’s tallest waterfall (198m) to the parking lot you will begin the 5.5km hike with some of the best views. The trail crosses into a lava cave, through a river and up along a canyon. Once you reach the top, you have the option to continue up to Hvalfell to increase the hike to a 10km loop.

Skogafoss : Is one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland (25m wide, 60m tall) and also one of the most popular. Spend some time climbing the stairs to the left of the falls where you can reach the top for a different perspective.

Dettifoss, Selfoss, and Hafragilsfoss : Hike the short loop connecting Dettifoss (Europe’s most powerful waterfall) and Selfoss. And for an extended hike start at Hafragilsfoss then Dettifoss, and Selfoss (12 km each direction).

3. Hornvík & Hornbjarg

Visit Hornvík Bay and the Hornbjarg cliffs in Iceland’s most remote nature reserve. On this two-day trek, you’ll traverse the untouched parts of the Westfjords which only pristine wilderness. This area can only be reached on foot or by boat. Arctic foxes, birds, seals, and plants live and grow there in peace and harmony.

4. Mýrdalsjökull

Is a glacier in the south of the Icelandic highlands. It is the country's fourth largest ice cap, covering nearly 600 square kilometres, and its highest peak is almost 1500 meters tall. It is most well-known for sitting atop the volcano Katla. Typically, glacier-walk gear includes crampons, helmets, and ice axes. Not all of this equipment might be necessary, but for safety reasons, it’s highly recommended.

5. Laugavegur

The hiking trail between Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk is one of the most popular hiking trails in Iceland. National Geographic listed it as one of the most beautiful trails in the world. Landmannalaugar is the start of the Laugavegur hike, which takes 2-4 days. It is 55 km long (34 mi) and is famous for its wide variety of landscapes.