Adventurous 4-Day Trekking Tour of the Strutur Highland Area From South Iceland
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary four-day adventure with this Strutur trek, featuring three days of trekking that promises an unforgettable exploration of Iceland's highlands. This tour of Strutur is ideal for adventurous souls seeking an immersive journey through Iceland's untamed landscapes.
This tour is tailored to those who are passionate about invigorating trekking experiences, enchanted by natural wonders like waterfalls and geothermal springs, and yearning for a unique exploration of Iceland's highlands. The Strutur trek is also less well-known than the Laugavegur hiking route, making it an excellent choice for those looking to get off the beaten path.
The tour starts from the base camp at Holaskjol Highland Center. Pickup in the picturesque village of Kirkjubaejarklaustur can be arranged.
The journey commences with a thrilling trek to Lake Alftavotn, where the group will spend the first night in a cozy mountain hut. Travel through the impressive landscape along the Sydri Ofaera river, passing through a waterfall and a striking pillar rock formation.
Lake Alftavotn, surrounded by a network of lakes and rivers, provides a stunning backdrop for the first leg of this adventure. The active hiking time on the first day is about three to four hours, with a hiking distance of about 4.3 miles (7 kilometers).
Continuing from Alftavotn hut, the trek follows the Eldga fissures and travels alongside the imposing Svartahnuksfjoll, aptly named the "black mountains," on your way to Strutslaug.
Nestled south of the Torfajokull glacier, Strutslaug is an active geothermal area where adventurous explorers can unwind in a fully natural geothermal hot spring. As the day's trek concludes, spend the night in the mountain hut at Strutur.
Venturing forth from Strutur hut, journey across the black volcanic sands of Maelifellsandur to reach Slysaalda, a site steeped in ancient tales of outlaws. On the way to Hvanngil Valley, enjoy panoramic views over the Maelifellssandur black sand plain and the majestic mountain Maelifell.
The trek culminates at the hut in Hvanngil, providing a peaceful haven for the final night of this exhilarating expedition.
On the final day, after a hearty breakfast, trekkers will be conveniently picked up for a scenic drive along the mountain road Maelfellssandur. Make a stop at the verdant Maelfell mountain before arriving back at the Holaskjol Highland Center, marking the end of an incredible journey through Iceland's untamed landscapes.
Over the four days, a knowledgeable local guide will lead your trek, sharing insights, trivia, and local stories about the sights. Your booking covers meals, lunch packs, three-night stays in mountain huts, and luggage transport. To ensure comfort, remember to pack hiking essentials like sturdy boots and waterproof layers.
Don't miss out on this extraordinary four-day hiking tour, immersing yourself in the raw beauty of Iceland's highlands and uncovering hidden gems along the way. Check availability now by choosing a date.
Included
Activities
Daily itinerary
Day 1 - Holaskjol Highland Center – Alftavotn Hut
Your journey into the Icelandic highlands kicks off at the Holaskjol Highland Centre, the starting point for this four-day trek. Arrive at your own pace, soaking in the rugged surroundings. Alternatively, if you've opted for it, you will be picked up from the village of Kirkjubaejarklaustur.
As you gather at the Holaskjol base, you'll meet your small group of fellow hikers, as well as your knowledgeable guide, who will navigate the upcoming adventure. The tour prides itself on its intimate size, fostering a more personalized experience throughout the expedition.
Day one takes you on a trek to the picturesque Lake Alftavotn, where the group settles in for the night in a cozy mountain hut. The Alftavotn hut is a restored hut that used to be a farmers' sheep roundup hut.
The initial leg of the trek leads you along the banks of the Sydri Ofaera River. Here, a captivating waterfall and distinct pillar rock formation adorn the trail, offering a taste of the natural wonders that characterize the Icelandic highlands. The hike spans approximately five miles (eight kilometers), with an active trekking time of about four to five hours.
Alftavotn, where fountains stream out from the lava fields, is truly fascinating. Lake Alftavotn proves to be a stunning highlight, nestled amidst a landscape adorned with numerous lakes and rivers. This tranquil location provides a serene backdrop for the first night's accommodation, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the surroundings.
As the day concludes, your group will gather in the mountain hut, sharing the camaraderie of the adventure so far. Reflect on the day's trek, recharge for the next leg, and brace yourself for the untamed beauty yet to be unveiled in the days ahead.
Day one sets the tone for an expedition marked by natural wonders and the camaraderie of small-group exploration.
Day 2 - Alftavotn Hut - Strutur Hut
On day two of your exhilarating Strutur trek, the adventure continues as you depart from Alftavotn hut, embarking on an off-the-beaten-path exploration.
The unmarked trail takes you through the expansive Alftavotn valley, adorned with lakes and rivers. Known as the "Swan Lakes," this area often treats trekkers to the graceful presence of swans and other birds.
As you navigate this less-traveled route, the trek leads through the dramatic Eldga fissure and alongside the vast Svartahnuksfjoll, aptly named the "black mountains." This untamed terrain, far from roads and tracks, immerses you in the raw beauty of Iceland's highlands.
Expect fields of black sands, formations of lava, and towering volcanoes as you stroll along the trail.
The journey takes you south, leading to the geothermal wonderland of Strutslaug, nestled beneath the Torfajokull glacier. Here, in this remote and inaccessible area, trekkers can unwind in a fully natural geothermal hot spring. Strutslaug offers an authentic experience with no dressing rooms, creating an isolated haven for relaxation.
The trail continues, and from Strutslaug, a 1.5-hour hike brings you to the Strutur hut, your overnight refuge for the final leg of the trek. This mountain hut offers a rustic yet comfortable shelter.
Throughout this day's trek, you'll cover a distance of approximately 13.6 miles (21.8 kilometers), with an active hiking time of seven to eight hours. The varied landscapes, from the wide Alftavotn Valley to the geothermal oasis of Strutslaug, offer a diverse and rewarding experience.
For dinner, you have the chance to bond with your fellow travelers over a barbecue, sharing stories of your shared adventure. Your guide will be happy to answer questions and tell local folk tales before you retire.
As you conclude day two, prepare to rest and recharge in the Strutur hut, surrounded by the untouched beauty of Iceland's highlands.
Day 3 - Strutur Hut - Hvanngil Hut
On day three of your adventurous Strutur Trek, the journey unfolds from the Strutur hut, leading you through diverse landscapes and historical sites, promising an immersive experience in Iceland's untamed wilderness.
You will wake up in the tranquil, well-vegetated surroundings, ready for another day of trekking and exploration. Enjoy your breakfast while appreciating being in the middle of the breathtaking landscapes.
Departing from Strutur hut, the trek traverses the captivating black volcanic sands of Maelifellsandur. This striking terrain adds a dramatic backdrop to your exploration, creating a contrast against the rugged highland surroundings.
The trek's path takes you to Slysaalda, a site steeped in history, with tales of hidden outlaws and a tragic accident dating back to 1868. As you walk through this historic location, you'll sense the echoes of stories from the past, connecting you to the unique history of the Icelandic highlands.
Continuing your trek, you'll ascend the small mountain ridge called Vedurhals. The elevation offers panoramic views, providing a unique perspective of the surrounding landscapes. The trek then leads you further through the black volcanic sands of Maelifellsandur, creating a visually striking contrast to the lush greenery and other geological features along the way.
As you proceed toward Hvanngil Valley, there's a chance to pause and appreciate the dark 'desert' behind you and the majestic Mountain Maelifell. This vantage point allows trekkers to absorb the highlands' vastness, showcasing this remote region's expansive untouched beauty.
The trek culminates at the hut in Hvanngil, where you'll spend the final night of this remarkable expedition. Hvanngil offers a tranquil setting, nestled amid Iceland's natural wonders, providing a fitting conclusion to your trekking adventure.
The day's trek covers approximately 11 miles (18 kilometers), with an active trekking time of around seven hours, ensuring a satisfying and fulfilling experience as you immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Iceland's highlands.
Day 4 - Hvanngil hut – Holaskjol Highland Center
On day four of your invigorating Strutur trek, the final leg of your journey begins, promising a scenic drive and a return to the base camp, Holaskjol Highland Centre.
After a hearty breakfast at Hvanngil hut, trekkers will be conveniently picked up by a 4x4 vehicle, marking the transition from the tranquil highland haven to the homeward journey. The use of a 4x4 vehicle ensures a comfortable and efficient transfer, allowing you to savor the remaining moments of your Icelandic adventure.
Embarking on a mountain track from Strutur via Maelifellssand, the journey provides a unique perspective of the landscape. Along the route, catch glimpses of the picturesque green mountain Maelifell, adding a vibrant contrast to the black sands surrounding it.
This leg of the journey offers a diverse visual experience, with green hills in the background and panoramic views of the magnificent glacier Myrdalsjokull, home to the dormant volcano Katla. Take a moment to appreciate the raw beauty of these natural wonders, capturing a final snapshot of Iceland's untamed landscapes.
The drive concludes as you arrive back at the base camp in Holaskjol Highland Centre, marking the end of this four-day adventure through Iceland's rugged beauty. If you have organized transfers, you'll be returend to Kirkjubaejarklaustur.
Reflect on the challenges overcome, the camaraderie forged, and the landscapes explored. Your journey through the Strutur trek has come to an end, leaving you with lasting memories of the untamed wilderness and the unique beauty of Iceland's highlands.
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