Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Iceland's Highlands

Highland Dreams Realized

Today was a day of pure Icelandic magic! Leaving behind the comforts of Reykjavik, Hans and I ventured deeper into the Highlands, eager to explore the geothermal landscapes of Kerlingarfjöll and Hveravellir. The drive itself was an adventure, a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of this incredible island. After a quick breakfast at Dill Restaurant and a stop at Rammagerdin Iceland Giftstore, we were ready to embrace the wild.


Discover the stunning landscapes and geothermal wonders of Kerlingarfjöll, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Iceland.

The journey to Kerlingarfjöll was nothing short of breathtaking. The rugged terrain demanded our full attention, a constant reminder of the power of nature. As we navigated the unpaved roads in our trusty 4x4, the landscape transformed into a mesmerizing panorama of volcanic peaks and vast, open spaces. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude for the opportunity to witness such unspoiled beauty. The weather was a mixed bag, typical of Iceland in May. We had sunshine, rain, and even a touch of sleet. But as they say, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing! Layered up in our warmest gear, we were prepared for anything.


Explore the geothermal paradise of Hveravellir, a stunning nature preserve in the Icelandic Highlands, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

Kerlingarfjöll, with its rhyolite mountains and steaming vents, was a sight to behold. We opted for a hike to Hveradalir, the area's most famous geothermal valley. The trail wound its way through a landscape that felt otherworldly, with vibrant colors painting the mountainsides and plumes of steam rising from the earth. The air was thick with the scent of sulfur, a constant reminder of the volcanic activity beneath our feet. I felt like I was walking on another planet!

We spent hours exploring the geothermal area, marveling at the bubbling mud pots and the hissing fumaroles. Every corner revealed a new and fascinating sight, a testament to the incredible power of nature. I couldn't resist snapping photos at every turn, trying to capture the essence of this surreal landscape. Hans, ever the patient companion, indulged my photographic obsessions, offering helpful tips and suggestions along the way. I even managed to get a few good shots of him, looking rugged and handsome against the backdrop of the steaming vents.

It's not about the destination, but the journey, and the incredible landscapes we encounter along the way.

After our invigorating hike, we continued our journey to Hveravellir, a geothermal oasis nestled between the Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers. The drive was equally stunning, with the glaciers looming in the distance, their icy peaks piercing the sky. As we approached Hveravellir, the landscape transformed once again, revealing a lush, green valley amidst the barren highlands.

Hveravellir is a true gem, a testament to the resilience of life in even the harshest environments. The geothermal area is a haven for unique flora and fauna, a vibrant ecosystem thriving in the shadow of the glaciers. We spent the afternoon exploring the hot springs and fumaroles, marveling at the delicate balance of nature in this remote corner of the world. The silica ratio of the geothermal area at Hveravellir is among the highest in Iceland, and around some of the hot springs, a beautiful geyserite has accumulated.

Of course, no visit to Hveravellir would be complete without a dip in the natural hot spring. The geothermal pool, nestled in a warm stream, was the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of hiking. As I sank into the soothing waters, surrounded by the stunning landscape, I felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over me. It was a truly magical moment, one that I will cherish for years to come.

The Hveravellir area has been a popular resting place in highland travels since the age of settlement, 1100-1200 years ago. It is frequently mentioned in the old sagas, annals, and folklore.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Highlands, we reluctantly packed up our gear and began the drive back towards Reykjavik. We stopped at Geysir Glima restaurant for a quick lunch, reminiscing about the incredible experiences of the day. The memories of Kerlingarfjöll and Hveravellir will stay with me forever, a reminder of the untamed beauty and the serene landscapes of Iceland's Highlands. We had reservations for dinner at Sjávarkjallarinn, but decided to postpone that for tomorrow.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Geysir Glima restaurant, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and geothermal wonders.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Hjálparfoss and Gjáin, two more hidden gems of the Icelandic Highlands. I'm particularly excited to see Hjálparfoss, with its unique double waterfall, and Gjáin, a small paradise filled with lush vegetation and hidden waterfalls. A visit to Skúli Craft bar is also on the cards. I can't wait to share our adventures with you all!

As I sit here in our cozy tent, the wind howling outside, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. Iceland has a way of captivating the soul, of reminding us of the power and beauty of nature. And as I drift off to sleep, I dream of geothermal pools and highland adventures, eager to see what tomorrow will bring.

The highlands are calling, and I must go!

P.S. I almost forgot! While in Hveravellir, I couldn't help but notice that we forgot to pack our portable stove and binoculars. A minor oversight, but one that I'll be sure to rectify before our next adventure. Note to self: always double-check the packing list!

Also, I had a funny encounter while taking photos near one of the hot springs. I was so focused on getting the perfect shot that I didn't realize I was standing a little too close to the edge. Suddenly, the ground beneath me gave way, and I found myself sinking into a muddy puddle! Luckily, Hans was there to lend a hand, pulling me out with a hearty laugh. We both ended up covered in mud, but it made for a memorable moment and a great story to tell. That's the beauty of travel, isn't it? The unexpected adventures and the shared laughter that make the journey so worthwhile.