Hveradalir, translated as the “Valley of Hot Springs,” lies within the Kerlingarfjoll Mountain Range in the Central Highlands and is commonly visited on Highland tours or via the Kerlingarfjoll Highland Base. The area is known for its rhyolite mountains, bubbling mud pools, and constant geothermal activity, with steam rising across the valley.
Because of its remote location, Hveradalir is typically visited between late June and mid-September, either through summer tours and packages or as part of summer self-drive tours using 4x4 rental vehicles. Once in the area, exploration takes place on foot, which makes the valley a natural stop for hiking and trekking tours in Iceland’s Highlands.
This guide explains how to reach Hveradalir, what to expect on the hiking trails, and how to prepare for road and weather conditions. It also highlights nearby attractions and practical tips for planning a Highlands itinerary.
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Quick Facts for Visiting Hveradalir Geothermal Area
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Location: Hveradalir is located in Iceland’s Central Highlands and is accessed via Road 35 and the F347 mountain road.
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Seasonal access: Roads to Hveradalir are closed outside the summer season due to snow, mud, and unsafe driving conditions.
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Vehicle required: A four-wheel-drive vehicle is required, as F347 is an F-road and cannot be driven with a two-wheel-drive car.
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Hike difficulty: Hiking in Hveradalir is considered moderate due to steep stairs, uneven terrain, and slippery rhyolite clay.
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Parking: Most hikes into Hveradalir begin at the Keis Parking Lot, reached via F347. If driving conditions feel challenging, parking is also available at the Highland Base, with a longer hike to the valley.
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Facilities: There are no toilets or services at the Keis Parking Lot or inside the valley. The nearest facilities are located at the Highland Base.
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Bathing: Bathing is not allowed in Hveradalir because geothermal water reaches boiling temperatures and the area is protected.
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Mobile signal: Cell service is very limited and often unavailable inside the valley and along hiking trails.
Why Hveradalir Is Worth Visiting
Hveradalir showcases one of Iceland’s most striking geothermal landscapes, shaped by active hot springs, steaming vents, and vividly colored rhyolite mountains. The constant movement of steam, mineral-stained slopes, and bubbling mud pools gives the valley a sense of motion that changes throughout the day.
Its remote location within the Kerlingarfjoll Highlands adds to the experience. Access is limited to the summer months and requires planning, which helps keep visitor numbers lower than at many attractions near the Ring Road. As a result, the valley feels quieter and more expansive, even during peak travel periods.
Hiking is a central part of any visit. Well-worn trails lead directly into the geothermal area, with route options that suit both shorter outings and longer, more gradual approaches across surrounding ridges. This makes Hveradalir accessible while still feeling rugged and immersive.
The area is also valued for its visual impact and sense of place. Strong color contrasts, shifting light, and rising steam make it a rewarding location for photography, while the lack of development inside the valley preserves its natural scale.
How To Get to Hveradalir Geothermal Area
Hveradalir Geothermal Area is located in the Kerlingarfjoll Mountain Range in Iceland’s Highlands and is only accessible during the summer season. Most visitors reach the area by driving a four-wheel-drive vehicle along Road 35 and F347, while others choose guided tours that handle access and road conditions.
Driving to Hveradalir Geothermal Area
Reaching Hveradalir by car requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle, as the final access road is a steep and uneven mountain track.
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From Reykjavik and South Iceland: Drive Road 35 north past Gullfoss Waterfall. After Gullfoss, the road becomes gravel but is usually well-maintained during summer and does not include river crossings.
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From Akureyri and North Iceland: Follow Road 35 south via the town of Blonduos. This route includes one shallow river crossing north of Kerlingarfjoll and may require extra caution depending on water levels.
To reach Hveradalir itself, turn onto F347 toward Kerlingarfjoll. You will pass the Highland Base, formerly the Kerlingarfjoll Mountain Resort. Continue about 2 miles (3 kilometers) beyond the base on a steep, uneven track to the Keis Parking Lot, the closest parking area for Hveradalir.
While Road 35 is a gravel road suitable for most four-wheel-drive vehicles in summer, the final 2 miles (3 kilometers) from the Highland Base to the Keis Parking Lot is steep and narrow. If driving conditions feel uncomfortable or the weather is poor, it is safer to park at the Highland Base and hike in rather than continue on the upper mountain track.
Visiting Hveradalir Geothermal Area on a Tour
Guided tours make it possible to reach Hveradalir without driving into the Highlands and typically include transportation and a guided hike through the geothermal valley. Tours depart from Reykjavik or Akureyri and range from full-day outings to multi-day Highland experiences.
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Day Tour to Kerlingarfjoll With Hveradalir Hike and Hot Spring: This full-day tour combines a guided hike through the Hveradalir Geothermal Valley with time at a nearby hot spring, which makes it a practical option for travelers starting in Reykjavik.
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Private Hiking and Hot Springs Highland Tour From Akureyri: Designed for travelers based in North Iceland, this private tour focuses on hiking around Hveradalir Geothermal Valley and includes access to geothermal areas.
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Private Jeep and Hiking Tour to the Highlands From Reykjavik: This private tour combines off-road travel with guided hiking in the Hveradalir area, providing personalized guidance for visitors starting in Reykjavik.
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Women-Only 6-Day Highland Luxury Retreat in Kerlingarfjoll: This multi-day retreat offers a slower-paced Highlands experience centered on hiking, wellness, and geothermal bathing, with accommodations and logistics handled throughout the journey.
Top Hiking Trails in Hveradalir
Hveradalir is explored on foot, and there are two main hiking routes that let you experience the geothermal valley at different paces and effort levels. Both routes are unmarked but well-worn during the summer season.
Hveradalir Circle (Short Loop)
Starting point: Keis Parking Lot
Distance: about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers)
Time required: 2 to 3 hours
This is the most direct and time-efficient way to see the colorful rhyolite mountains and active geothermal area. From the parking lot, a steep set of stairs leads straight down into the heart of Hveradalir. The loop takes you past steaming vents, bubbling hot springs, and vividly colored slopes before climbing back out of the valley.
Highland Base Hike (Long Route)
Starting point: Highland Base
Distance: about 7 miles (11.5 kilometers) round trip
Time required: 4 to 5 hours
This longer route offers a more gradual approach and wider views of the surrounding highlands before reaching the geothermal core. The trail crosses mountain ridges and open highland terrain, allowing the valley to slowly come into view from above. This route includes more elevation gain and can involve snow patches, even in July in Iceland.
Photography in Hveradalir
Hveradalir is a standout destination for landscape photography, thanks to its geothermal colors and shifting atmosphere. The contrast between rust-red and yellow rhyolite hills, blue-gray mud pools, and drifting white steam creates layered compositions that feel almost otherworldly, especially as steam patterns change with the wind.
Because Hveradalir is a protected geothermal area, drone use is generally restricted to preserve both the environment and the visitor experience. Regulations around flying drones in Iceland can vary, so always check posted signage and local guidelines on arrival before flying.
Essential Tips for Visiting Hveradalir
Hveradalir is an active geothermal area, and conditions can change quickly. These tips help you visit safely and avoid common mistakes.
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Fuel up first: Make sure your tank is full before leaving the Gullfoss area. There is no fuel on Road 35 or F347, and a round trip into the Highlands can use more fuel than expected, especially in larger 4x4s.
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Expect limited cell service: Cell reception is patchy on Road 35 and often disappears completely in the Hveradalir Valley. Download offline maps in advance and check SafeTravel for road and weather updates before heading onto mountain roads.
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Watch your footing: The ground in Hveradalir is made of rhyolite clay, which becomes extremely slippery when wet. Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip, and expect thick clay to stick to your soles after rain.
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Deal with the mud: The rhyolite mud in Hveradalir sticks to everything. Bring an extra pair of shoes for the drive back and a bag for muddy boots, unless you want to spend the rest of the day cleaning your car.
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Bathing is not allowed: Despite being known as a hot spring valley, the geothermal water in Hveradalir reaches boiling temperatures, and the area is protected. Bathing is strictly prohibited. If you want to soak nearby, the Kerlingarfjoll Hot Spring is a natural pool located about a 20-minute walk from the Highland Base.
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Stay on marked paths: The earth’s crust in Hveradalir is thin and unstable. Stepping off wooden walkways or the clearly worn clay trails can lead to serious injury from boiling water and cause permanent damage to the fragile geothermal landscape.
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Prepare for changing weather: Even in summer, temperatures can drop to around 41 F (5 C), often with strong winds. Knowing what to wear in Iceland is important here, so bring warm layers, gloves, and a windproof jacket, and be prepared for rapid weather changes.
Where To Stay Near Hveradalir
Where you stay for a Hveradalir visit depends on your budget, comfort level, and how deep into the Highlands you want to travel. In practice, travelers usually choose between staying directly in Kerlingarfjoll for the shortest access or basing themselves outside the Highlands and visiting as a long day trip.
Staying in Kerlingarfjoll is the most convenient option, with Hveradalir about a 15-minute drive or a one-hour hike away. The Highland Base offers several accommodation types at different price levels, including hotel rooms, private lodges, traditional A-frame huts, and a riverside campsite for tents and rental campervans.
If you prefer not to stay deep in the interior, you can base yourself along the Highland perimeter and visit Hveradalir as a day trip. The Hrauneyjar Highland Center, south of Kerlingarfjoll, is often considered the last major accommodation hub before entering the Central Highlands and works well for travelers also visiting Landmannalaugar.
Another common choice is staying in Golden Circle accommodations near Geysir Geothermal Area or Gullfoss Waterfall. From there, the drive to Hveradalir takes about 2 to 2.5 hours each way, which makes for a long but manageable day while allowing access to a wider range of hotels and guesthouses.
Must-Visit Attractions Near Hveradalir
If you are already making the effort to drive into the Highlands, several worthwhile stops lie along the Kjolur Route (Road 35) and within the Kerlingarfjoll range. These attractions pair naturally with a visit to Hveradalir and add depth to the journey without major detours.
Gygjarfoss Waterfall
Gygjarfoss is located directly along Road F347, about 3 miles (5 kilometers) before reaching the Highland Base. Fed by the Jokulfall River, it is a wide, powerful waterfall that requires almost no walking from the road. Because of its exposure, it also works as a reliable weather check. If heavy mist obscures the falls, visibility higher up in Hveradalir is often poor.
Hveravellir Nature Reserve
Located about 28 miles (45 kilometers) north of Kerlingarfjoll on Road 35, Hveravellir is one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal areas. Often called the “Northern Oasis,” it features active fumaroles such as Oskurholl, known as the Roaring Mound, and a natural hot pool where bathing is allowed.
Hvitarvatn Glacier Lake
Hvitarvatn is a large glacial lake at the base of Langjokull Glacier and can be reached via a detour of about 30 minutes from Road 35. Small icebergs often drift across the water, creating a quiet, stark contrast to the intense geothermal activity of Hveradalir. It is an ideal stop for photography and a calmer break between Highland hikes.
Highland Baths at the Highland Base
For a more comfortable soak, you can book a ticket to the Highland Baths at the Kerlingarfjoll Highland Base. These modern geothermal pools sit near the accommodation area and offer a relaxing way to unwind after hiking, especially before the long drive back toward the Golden Circle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hveradalir Geothermal Area
To help you plan your visit, here are the answers to the most common questions travelers have when visiting the Hveradalir Geothermal Area.
Do you really need a 4x4 for Hveradalir?
Yes. Road F347 is one of Iceland’s F-roads, which means a four-wheel-drive vehicle is required. Even in dry conditions, the final 2 miles (3 kilometers) to the Keis Parking Lot is steep, uneven, and loose in places. Rental two-wheel-drive vehicles cannot safely handle this section, and driving it without a 4x4 can invalidate rental insurance.
Are there any river crossings on the way to Hveradalir?
If you approach from the south via Gullfoss Waterfall, there are no river crossings, which makes this the easier route for most drivers. From the north via the town of Akureyri, there is one small, shallow river crossing north of Kerlingarfjoll. Water levels can change quickly, so always assess conditions before crossing.
Where is the last gas station before Kerlingarfjoll?
There are no fuel stations in the Highlands. If you are coming from the south, fill up near the Geysir Geothermal Area or Gullfoss Waterfall. From the north, refuel in the town of Blonduos or Varmahlid. Always start the drive with a full tank, as gravel roads and elevation gain use more fuel than paved highways.
Can you bathe in the hot springs at Hveradalir?
No. The geothermal water in the Hveradalir Valley is at boiling temperatures, and the area is protected. Bathing is not allowed. For a safe soak, visit the Kerlingarfjoll Hot Spring, about a 20-minute walk from the Highland Base, or the modern Highland Baths at the resort.
Is Hveradalir the same place as Hveravellir?
No. Although they are often confused, they are different locations. Hveradalir is the geothermal valley within the Kerlingarfjoll Mountain Range. Hveravellir is a separate nature reserve about a 45-minute drive farther north on Road 35. Some travelers visit both, but they are distinct destinations.
What is the best time of year to visit Hveradalir?
Hveradalir is usually accessible from late June to mid-September. Outside of this period, F-roads are closed due to snow, mud, and unsafe conditions. Even in summer, road closures can happen, so it is important to check road conditions and weather updates before your trip.
Is there a mobile phone signal in Hveradalir?
Mobile coverage is very limited. You may have a weak signal near the Highland Base, but there is little to no reception in the Hveradalir Valley or along the hiking trails. Download offline maps before you go, and do not rely on mobile data.
Are there toilets or food available at Hveradalir?
There are no facilities at the Keis Parking Lot or inside the geothermal valley. Toilets, a restaurant, and a small shop are available at the Highland Base, about 2 miles (3 kilometers) away. Please pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Visit Hveradalir Geothermal Area in the Central Highlands
Hveradalir stands out as one of Iceland’s most dramatic geothermal landscapes, shaped by vivid colors, steaming vents, and rugged mountain terrain. Its remote setting and active geothermal features place it among the top places to visit in the Highlands for travelers interested in landscapes that feel raw and largely untouched.
The area can be explored on a short loop through the geothermal valley, a longer hike across surrounding ridges, or as part of a guided visit that manages access and logistics. Travelers drawn to the most unique experiences in Iceland often combine a visit to Hveradalir with other Highland hikes, remote geothermal areas, and less-traveled interior routes.
For travelers visiting during the summer months and looking beyond familiar Golden Circle stops, Hveradalir offers a deeper look into Iceland’s interior and the natural forces that continue to shape the Highlands.
