Remote relaxation
A geologic phenomenon unfolds before you as mountains of deep purple, smooth brown and golden yellow contrast with the turquoise blue from the steaming hot springs below making you feel like you have been dropped into a Van Gogh painting.
Located about 3.5 hours southeast of Reykjavík, Landmannalauger is for the adventurous soul. It is not accessible without a 4×4 vehicle or a bus ticket for an off road bus, which makes this destination far off the beaten path. Besides a mountain hut, a few changing rooms, and showers, nothing man-made can be seen for miles.
A destination for the outdoors
The hot springs at Landmannalaugar are only the beginning of the attractions as the area is filled with some of the best hiking in Iceland. One of Iceland’s most famous trips is hiking the Laugavegur Trail, a 34 mile trek that weaves through colorful mountains, alongside huge waterfalls and over lava fields—it is one of the best ways to experience the raw landscape on foot. In addition to hiking routes, there is a vast network of trails for single track mountain biking, which are becoming increasingly popular among visitors.
Not a winter destination
Due to its remote location and Iceland’s proximity to the arctic circle, few dare to venture to Landmannalauger in the winter. A thick layer of snow closes the rugged highland F-Roads, and only “super Jeeps” can access the area. If you are interested in seeing this area in the off season though, a guided tour is a great way to do winter hiking in Iceland, since the operator will have a specialty vehicle and experience driving in tumultuous weather.