Landmannalaugar (part 1)

Landmannalaugar is a stunning area located in the Icelandic Highlands, renowned for its unique and diverse landscapes. Situated within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, it is characterized by its colorful rhyolite mountains, geothermal hot springs, and expansive lava fields. Rhyolite is a type of volcanic rock that is made of quartz and silica. Minerals such as iron and sulphur add extra color to the mountains. Brennisteinsalda, also called the Sulphur Wave, is a very good example of this. The name "Landmannalaugar" translates to "the people's pools," a nod to the natural hot springs that have drawn visitors for centuries. The People’s Pool is a naturally occurring hot spring located next to the Laugahraun lava field. Temperatures remain a toasty 36 to 40°C (97 to 104°F) year-round.

Sunrise in Landmannalaugar, Iceland

One of the most remarkable features of Landmannalaugar is its striking geological formations, which exhibit a palette of colors ranging from vibrant reds and yellows to greens and blues, resulting from volcanic activity and mineral deposits. This creates a surreal and picturesque environment that attracts hikers, nature lovers, and photographers alike. Landmannalaugar is also a key starting point for several famous hiking trails, including the Laugavegur Trail, which connects Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk. The region offers a variety of hiking options, from short walks to multi-day treks, allowing visitors to explore its breathtaking scenery, including valleys, mountains, and lava fields.

Landmannalaugar

The mountains and lava fields are the result of thousands of years of volcanic activity. The Laugahraun lava field, a wide expanse of jagged, black obsidian, was formed after an eruption in 1477.

Stútur crater (slightly to the right in the center of the photo) is a very short hike on a volcanic crater. It takes about 30 minutes of your time and it’s located right on F208 before you arrive at the Landmannalaugar campground. With soil that is deep brown and red, and with the hills covered in bright green moss, it looks vastly different here than near the Landmannalaugar campground.

The F-roads to Landmannalaugar open in mid-June and typically remain open until early September. However, this timing can change based on weather conditions.

The best thing to do in Landmannalaugar is to go hiking. There is no better way to get up close with these unique volcanic features. For amazing views, hike to the peak of one many mountains in the area.

See you soon!

Luigi