Let’s explore one of Iceland’s most visited hot springs! Surrounded by old Icelandic folktales, this unique nature reserve is known for its diverse geothermal activity you need to witness with your own eyes! Hveravellir geothermal area, a lovely natural gem in the highlands of Iceland, is filled with fumaroles, boiling pits, and warm, mineral-rich waters. Read the article and start planning your next trip!
What Is a Hot Spring?
Hot springs are geothermally heated natural pools of water. The water temperature in a hot spring is always higher than the temperature of the surroundings. Most hot springs have temperatures of at least 38 °C (100 °F), but some can reach much higher than that. There are springs where the water temperature surpasses the boiling point!
The practice of soaking in hot springs is known for many health benefits, including relaxation and general wellness. However, it is important to remember that not all springs are suitable for hot potting. Sometimes, geothermal springs can shoot water like geysers and be dangerous for people even to come close to.
Where Is Hveravellir Located?
This unique nature reserve nests in the middle of the Icelandic highlands, between two big glaciers, Langjökull and Hofsjökull. It is located on the Kjölur route (also called Kjalvegur Road or Road F35), halfway between Reykjavík and Akureyri.
How to Get to Hveravellir?
Hveravellir can be accessed both from north and south Iceland. The distance from Reykjavík to the geothermal area is 215 km (130 mi).
The distance from Gullfoss Waterfall, one of the top attractions of Iceland’s famous Golden Circle route, is approximately 80 km (50 mi).
You can reach Hveravellir by bus or by car. The bus runs from both Reykjavík and Akureyri cities. However, it operates only during the summer months.
If you decide to go by car, take the Road F35 and make sure your vehicle is 4×4. The road is often gravelly and too challenging to drive with a smaller car. Weather conditions can make driving even more complicated. You can check the road conditions beforehand to avoid any surprises.
By the way, there is no gas station along the route, so make sure you have enough fuel before embarking on this journey!
In winter, the road conditions can be too challenging to drive yourself. The good thing is, you can always take a guided tour where experienced guides, equipped with specially modified Super Jeeps, will take care of the driving part.
History and Geology of Hveravellir
Hveravellir nature reserve was first mentioned in 1752 in the travel report made by travelers Bjarni Pálsson and Eggert Ólafsson. They named one of the springs (Öskurhóll) the Roaring Mound because it was making loud whistling and roaring sounds, which it makes to this day.
Hveravellir Nature Reserve became a protected area in 1965.
This stunning nature reserve is often called the most beautiful geothermal area in Iceland. You can observe various types of hot springs in the area, from steaming fumaroles to bubbling mud pools and even some geysers. The main geothermal area is approximately 2.5 km² (0.97 sq mi). It has a very high silica ratio, creating colorful geyserite formations around most hot springs. Some springs even have names according to those colors (Bláihver – Blue Hot Spring, Rauðihver – Red Hot Spring, Grænihver – Green Hot Spring).
Hveravellir Folklore
Hveravellir hot springs are frequently mentioned in folklore and old Icelandic sagas. The most famous saga is about Fjalla-Eyvindur and Halla, two lovers who lived 20 years in the wilderness in order to be together.
According to the tale, Eyvindur was a man who moved to a farm in northern Iceland to look for work. There, he met the farmer’s daughter, Halla, and instantly fell in love. The feelings were mutual. Sadly, their love was obstructed by Eyvindur being charged with theft and condemned to outlawry.
Halla couldn’t live without her lover, so she abandoned her home and followed Eyvindur to a life of isolation in the wilderness.
The couple stayed in Hveravellir for many years, lived in the cave, and cooked food in the hot springs. The spring and cave where the couple lived are called Eyvindarhver Spring and Eyvindarhellir Cave.
Unfortunately, the story of two lovers does not have a happy ending. Still, this timeless tale lives in the hearts of many Icelanders, being an example of true love and sacrifice. There is a monument for Fjalla-Eyvindur and Halla in Hveravellir called “Prisoners of Freedom.” It features two stone hearts enclosed in prison bars.
What to Do in Hveravellir?
One of the most popular attractions in the area is Hveravellir blue geothermal pool. Visitors are welcome to take a dip while admiring beautiful views of the lava field and two glaciers in the background. The water temperature is warm and pleasant. You can enjoy the relaxing experience both in the summer and winter seasons.
What’s more, if you visit in winter, you might even witness the Northern Lights stretching above the hot spring fields. Watching the Northern Lights while soaking in a lovely hot spring— could it get any better?
Horse riding is another great activity to try at Hveravellir. The horse riding tours are beginner-friendly. This is one of the best options for meeting the Icelandic horse and exploring the most remote corners of the great wilderness areas.
The hot spring area is located next to the Kjalhraun lava field, where you can find many hiking trails. Many of them lead to various lava caves, including the legendary Eyvindarhellir Cave.Few hiking trails lead straight to Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier. You can book a glacier snowmobiling tour and even walk inside the glacier.
Where to Stay in Hveravellir?
There are quite a few hostels and hotels you can choose from when visiting Hveravellir:
- Áfangi Mountain Hut
- Kerlingarfjöll Mountain Resort
- The New Hut
- The Old Hut
- Gljásteinn Gíslaskáli Kjölur
Camping at Hveravellir is also possible and a great option for those traveling on a budget or nature enthusiasts. The shared WC and shower facilities are located next to the campsite. Visitors can also use wooden pick-nick tables and grilles.
Things to Remember When Visiting Hveravellir
- Stick to the boardwalks when exploring the area.
- Remember, not all hot springs are suitable for hot potting.
- Protect the area by not leaving any rubbish behind.
- Make sure to have enough petrol before driving to Hveravellir.
Interesting Places Near Hveravellir
- The Ring Road
- Geysir Geothermal area
- Hofsjökull Glacier
- Lake Þórisvatn
- Kerlingarfjöll Mountains
Make Hveravellir Your Next Destination
Hveravellir is a true geothermal oasis offering its visitors a wide range of activities, from hiking through stunning landscapes to soaking in a warm, mineral-rich geothermal pool. The area’s diverse geothermal features, including steaming fumaroles and vividly colored hot springs, provide a unique and captivating experience. Rich in Icelandic folklore, Hveravellir also offers a glimpse into the country’s cultural heritage with tales like that of Fjalla-Eyvindur and Halla. The breathtaking views of surrounding glaciers and the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights enhance the magic of this destination. Make Hveravellir your next adventure and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime!