Early in the morning, we travel by regular mountain bus into the heart of the highlands, bound for Landmannalaugar. Arriving around midday, we have time to soak in the warm natural river bath, a perfect introduction to this remarkable landscape. In the afternoon, we begin our trek by climbing the lava edge of Laugahraun, formed during an eruption in the late 15th century. The trail winds through vividly colored rhyolite hills, past steaming hot springs and dramatic mountain scenery. As we gain elevation, we cross lingering snowfields that often remain well into summer, reaching the high point of the route near Hrafntinnusker. We arrive at Hrafntinnusker Mountain Hut in the evening, where we settle in for the night surrounded by Iceland’s raw highland wilderness.
Meals: Lunch and dinner
Hiking: 12 km (7.5 miles), 4-5 hours
Elevation: +600 m (+1,970 ft), -100 m (-330 ft)
Accommodation: Hrafntinnusker mountain hut