Hvolsvollur Town Travel Guide

Choose Hvolsvollur as a starting point for exploring South Iceland in depth. The town sits in a region shaped by volcanoes, rivers, and early settlement, offering both geographic access and historical context that define this part of the country.

Located on the Ring Road, Hvolsvollur provides direct access to landscapes commonly associated with South Coast tours. Its position between the coastline and the volcanic interior makes it a practical reference point for understanding how Iceland’s natural systems intersect in this part of the island.

Hvolsvollur also functions as a natural gateway toward inland routes connected to Highland tours, particularly those leading toward Thorsmork and Landmannalaugar. This role is reinforced by seasonal transport links and infrastructure that support travel beyond paved coastal roads.

It also works well for travelers on self-drive excursions and for those interested in Viking history and saga tours, with nearby sites connected to Njals Saga and the early Icelandic Commonwealth. Museums, cultural landmarks, and preserved landscapes around town help place these stories in a real geographic setting.

The sections below explore what to see, how to get around, and where to stay and eat, helping you understand how Hvolsvollur fits into a South Iceland itinerary.

Key Takeaways

• Hvolsvollur is a strong base on Iceland’s South Coast, offering central access to waterfalls, coastal sights, the Highlands, and the Westman Islands without the crowds of larger towns.

• Major attractions are close by, including Seljalandsfoss, Gljufrabui, Skogafoss, Gluggafoss, Nauthusagil, Efra-Hvolshellar, and Keldur Turf House.

• Hvolsvollur works well for self-drive travel, sitting directly on the Ring Road with reliable services, fuel, EV fast charging, and winter road maintenance.

• Accommodation options cover multiple travel styles, including full-service hotels, cabins, hostels, and a well-equipped campground.

• The town has essential services and dining, which makes it a practical resupply stop before continuing east, heading inland, or starting multi-day hikes.

Is Hvolsvollur Worth Visiting?

Yes. Hvolsvollur is worth visiting because it combines location, access, and everyday services in a way few South Coast towns do. It sits about 66 miles (106 kilometers) east of Reykjavik on the Ring Road, which makes it easy to reach while placing you closer to many of South Iceland’s most important landscapes.

Hvolsvollur works especially well as a base for the South Coast, with major waterfalls, black sand beaches, and coastal landmarks all within short driving distance. At the same time, it functions as a gateway to the Highlands, offering seasonal bus access to Thorsmork and Landmannalaugar without the need to drive F-roads yourself.

The town also stands out for its practical advantages. It has reliable fuel stops, grocery stores, restaurants, and a range of accommodations. Low light pollution supports northern lights viewing in winter, while cultural sites connected to Njals Saga add historical depth to the surrounding scenery.

Top 5 Things To Do in Hvolsvollur

Hvolsvollur has several cultural and indoor attractions that make it worth stopping beyond its location on Iceland’s South Coast. Things to do in Hvolsvollur include visiting volcano museums, learning about Viking history, checking local art projects, and exploring small shops that are easy to visit in a short amount of time.

5. Relax at the Hvolsvollur Swimming Pool

The Hvolsvollur Swimming Pool, also known as Hvolsvollur Sundlaug, is a good place to unwind, especially after a day of sightseeing along Iceland’s South Coast. Like most local pools in Iceland, it is used by both residents and travelers, which makes it a simple way to experience everyday life in the town.

The facility includes a main outdoor pool, hot tubs with different temperatures, and a sauna. Visiting the pool is a practical stop if you are staying overnight in Hvolsvollur or passing through between major attractions.

4. Discover Breidabolstadarkirkja Church

Breidabolstadarkirkja is a historic wooden church located in the countryside near Hvolsvollur. The site has long been connected to early Christian history in the region, which makes it a meaningful stop for travelers interested in Icelandic heritage beyond major attractions.

The church dates back to the late 19th century and reflects traditional rural church architecture, with simple wooden construction and a peaceful setting surrounded by farmland. It is best visited as a short stop while exploring the area, especially if you enjoy quiet historic sites and scenic drives through South Iceland.

3. Visit the Lava Centre Volcano Museum

The Lava Centre is an interactive volcano museum in Hvolsvollur that explains how Iceland’s volcanoes, earthquakes, and tectonic plates shape the island. It is one of the top things to do in Hvolsvollur for families and travelers interested in Iceland’s geology.

Admission to the Lava Centre allows you to explore hands-on exhibits that simulate earthquakes, explain different types of magma, and show how volcanic eruptions form. The displays are designed to be clear and engaging, even if you have no background in geology.

Get your 4K volcano cinema ticket at the LAVA Centre, a highlight that features footage of recent Icelandic eruptions, including the 2010 Eyjafjallajokull eruption that disrupted air travel across Europe. On clear days, head to the rooftop observation deck for views toward well-known volcanoes such as Hekla, Katla, and Eyjafjallajokull.

This is a reliable indoor activity in South Iceland and a good choice in bad weather. The interactive layout also makes it suitable for families visiting Iceland with children and first-time visitors.

2. Shop for Local Products at UNA

UNA Local Product, also known as Sveitabudin Una, is a small shop in Hvolsvollur focused on locally made goods and regional food products. It is one of the best places in South Iceland to buy authentic Icelandic souvenirs that are not mass-produced.

Inside, you find handmade items such as hand-knitted lopapeysa sweaters made by local residents, along with ceramics, jewelry, and other crafts sourced from the surrounding area. The shop also carries a selection of Icelandic food products, including wild berry jams, flavored salts, and traditional sweets like rhubarb candy.

1. Explore the Saga Centre and Viking History

The Saga Centre is a small museum in Hvolsvollur dedicated to Njals Saga, the longest and best-known of the Icelandic Sagas. The town is closely connected to the story, which makes this one of the most meaningful things to do in Hvolsvollur if you want cultural context beyond nature.

The main exhibition introduces key saga figures such as Njáll, known for his wisdom and legal skill, and Gunnar of Hlíðarendi, one of the saga’s most famous heroes. Displays focus on daily life, social rules, and the values of honor and revenge that shaped Viking-age Iceland.

You also step inside a reconstructed Viking longhouse, designed to recreate the atmosphere of a medieval saga hall where feasts, disputes, and storytelling would have taken place over 1,000 years ago.

The centre shares its space with the Valhalla Restaurant, where you can take part in light Viking-themed activities such as axe throwing or dressing up in Viking clothing for photos, which makes the visit more interactive.

Best Attractions Near Hvolsvollur

Hvolsvollur is surrounded by a mix of well-known South Coast sights and quieter local attractions, all within easy driving distance. Using the town as a base makes it easier to combine major highlights with lesser-visited sites and explore the area at a more flexible pace.

South Coast’s Top Waterfalls

Seljalandsfoss, Gljufrabui, and Skogafoss are three of the most famous South Coast waterfalls, all within easy driving distance of Hvolsvollur. Staying in town lets you visit early in the morning or later in the evening, when crowds from Reykjavik day tours are lower.

• Seljalandsfoss: One of the top walk-behind waterfalls in Iceland, with a drop of about 200 feet (60 meters). Expect heavy spray year-round.

• Gljufrabui: Just a short walk from Seljalandsfoss, is hidden inside a narrow canyon. Reaching it requires wading through shallow water into a roofless cave where the waterfall drops directly in front of you.

• Skogafoss: One of Iceland’s largest waterfalls, measuring about 82 feet (25 meters) wide and 200 feet (60 meters) tall. A staircase leads to a viewpoint above the falls and the start of the Fimmvorduhals Trail.

Gluggafoss (Window Waterfall)

Gluggafoss, also known as Merkjarfoss, is a quieter waterfall near Hvolsvollur, known for its unusual rock formations rather than its size. It is far less crowded than the major South Coast waterfalls and appeals to travelers looking for something more distinctive.

The waterfall gets its name from the Icelandic word gluggar, meaning windows. Water flows through holes and arches carved where soft palagonite rock sits above harder basalt, allowing the river to tunnel through the cliff face.

In the early 20th century, the waterfall was mostly hidden behind three narrow openings. After the 1947 Hekla eruption, volcanic ash altered the flow, and ongoing erosion has since reopened the passages you see today.

A short, well-maintained path leads from the parking area to the base of the falls. A steeper trail climbs the nearby hillside to the upper tier, where you can see the river pass beneath a natural stone arch before dropping.

Nauthusagil (Rowan Tree Canyon)

Nauthusagil is a narrow canyon near Hvolsvollur known for its rowan tree growth and hiking route. Unlike most South Coast attractions, it is explored by walking directly through the canyon itself. Its mix of folklore, geology, and physical access sets it apart from nearby waterfalls and viewpoints.

What makes the canyon especially distinctive is the rowan tree canopy along its rim. Old rowan trees grow at sharp angles over the gorge, forming a natural archway above the ravine. In Icelandic folklore, rowan trees are considered sacred and protective, and the canyon was once home to the largest recorded rowan tree in Iceland.

Reaching the main waterfall, Nauthusafoss, requires wading through shallow water, stepping between rocks, and scrambling along the canyon floor. Partway in, fixed metal chains help you climb past a small waterfall. At the end of the ravine, a taller waterfall drops into a narrow, moss-filled chamber.

Nauthusagil is reached via Route 249, about a 19-mile (30-kilometer) drive from Hvolsvollur. The parking area is accessible by most cars in summer, before the F-road river crossings begin. Waterproof boots are essential, and many travelers bring spare socks or water shoes.

Drangurinn at the Rock of Elves and Outlaws

Drangurinn is a massive tuff rock standing alone beneath the Eyjafjoll Mountains, just off the Ring Road near Skogafoss. For travelers based in Hvolsvollur, it makes an easy, short stop that adds folklore and history to a South Coast drive.

According to legend, the rock was torn from the mountain by the outlaw Grettir Ásmundsson as a display of strength. A visible gap in the ridge above, known as Grettisskard, is said to mark the spot where the rock originated.

Drangurinn is also one of Iceland’s best-known sites associated with huldufolk, or hidden people. Natural caves beneath the rock were used for centuries as cowsheds and hay barns, and local stories say elves watched over the livestock. Traditional turf structures still lean against the rock’s base, showing how early Icelanders built directly into the landscape.

Located directly on Route 1, about 1 mile (2 kilometers) west of Skogafoss, Drangurinn sits on private farmland. Visitors can view it from the designated parking area and should stay on marked paths to protect the moss and historic buildings. There is no formal entrance fee, though a small donation box helps with upkeep.

Keldur Turf House and Medieval Tunnel

Keldur Turf House is one of Iceland’s oldest preserved turf farmsteads and offers a clear look at how early Icelanders lived and built. Located about a 15-minute drive from Hvolsvollur, the site was an important power center during the Sturlungar Era in the 12th and 13th centuries and was mentioned in the most iconic Icelandic Saga work, the Njáls Saga.

The most distinctive feature is the medieval underground tunnel hidden beneath the farm. Discovered during excavations in the 20th century, this stone-lined passage is believed to have served as a secret escape route during periods of conflict in the saga age.

Although much of the visible complex dates from the 19th century, parts of the timber structure are far older, which makes Keldur one of the oldest surviving turf house sites in Iceland. The interconnected buildings include living quarters and working spaces that reflect the self-sufficient nature of an early Icelandic manor.

Today, Keldur is maintained by the National Museum of Iceland as part of its Historic Buildings Collection, preserving the site as an important example of Iceland’s architecture and cultural heritage.

Efra-Hvolshellar (Ancient Irish Caves)

Efra-Hvolshellar is a group of man-made caves carved into soft tuff rock just outside Hvolsvollur. They are one of the area’s most intriguing historical sites, offering a rare look at human activity in Iceland before and shortly after Viking settlement.

The caves are often called the “Irish Caves,” linked to theories that Irish monks, known as the Papar, lived in Iceland before the Norse arrived in the late ninth century. While this has never been proven conclusively, the age and craftsmanship of the caves suggest they were created very early in Iceland’s settlement history.

Several cave openings are accessible today. Inside, you can see tool marks in the walls and small carved niches, likely used for lamps or storage. The interior is cool, quiet, and dark, even in summer.

Located less than 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the center of Hvolsvollur along Route 261, the caves sit on private farmland and are open to respectful visitors. Stay on marked paths to protect the fragile rock. A flashlight or headlamp is strongly recommended.

Getting To and Around Hvolsvollur

Getting to Hvolsvollur is straightforward, and the town makes it easy to continue exploring the South Coast and beyond. Below, you’ll find the main ways to arrive, move around locally, and connect to the Highlands and nearby islands.

Driving From Reykjavik to Hvolsvollur

The drive from Reykjavik to Hvolsvollur follows Route 1 and is one of the easiest stretches of the Ring Road. The road is fully paved, well-maintained, and open year-round in normal conditions.

The distance is about 66 miles (106 kilometers), with a typical drive time of 1 hour 20 minutes to 1.5 hours in good weather. After leaving Reykjavik, the route passes through the Hellisheidi Plateau, then continues past towns such as Hveragerdi, Selfoss, and Hella before reaching Hvolsvollur.

While Route 1 is a priority for snow clearing, this stretch can experience strong winds and icy conditions, especially over Hellisheidi. Always check current road conditions before departure, and ensure your rental cars are equipped with winter tires. If Hellisheidi is closed during storms, Route 39 is sometimes used as a lower-altitude alternative.

EV tip: If you are driving an electric vehicle, charging in Hvolsvollur is often easier than stopping in Selfoss. The town has reliable fast-charging options and works well as a final top-up point before continuing farther east.

Regional Public Transport From Hvolsvollur

Hvolsvollur is an important stop on the Route 51 Straeto bus line, which connects Reykjavik with South Coast destinations such as Vik and Hofn. This makes the town a practical base if you are traveling without a car.

During poor weather, especially when conditions worsen further east, buses often turn around in Hvolsvollur. As a result, it is frequently the furthest reliable public transport point on the South Coast in winter.

From Hvolsvollur, you can reach nearby towns and attractions by bus, including Hella in about 10 minutes, Seljalandsfoss in about 20 minutes, and Vik in roughly one hour, depending on conditions and schedules.

Highland Bus Connections From Hvolsvollur

During the summer season, typically from mid-June to mid-September, the N1 gas station in Hvolsvollur serves as a main transit hub for Highland travel. This is where specialized 4x4 Highland buses depart, designed to handle rough roads and deep river crossings in Iceland’s interior.

Highland buses to Thorsmork run daily. Most departures are in the morning, usually between 9 AM and 10 AM, with a travel time of about 1.5 hours. Taking the bus is strongly recommended, as the F249 road includes the Krossa River crossing, which regularly strands even large rental 4x4 vehicles.

There is also a bus to Thorsmork that departs from Hvolsvollur during the same season. This route is popular with hikers starting or finishing the Laugavegur Trail and provides direct access to the colorful rhyolite landscapes of the central Highlands.

Tip: A hiker’s bus pass is available, allowing one-way transport between Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork. This is a practical option if you plan to hike the Laugavegur Trail without returning to your starting point.

Ferry Access to the Westman Islands

Although Hvolsvollur is inland, it is the nearest major service town for reaching the Westman Islands by ferry. The town works well as a base for an overnight stay before an early crossing or as a pickup point for public transport.

The ferry (Herjolfur) departs from the Landeyjahofn Terminal, located about a 25-minute drive, roughly 19 miles (30 kilometers) south of Hvolsvollur via Route 254. The crossing is short, with a sailing time of about 35 to 40 minutes to Heimaey, the only inhabited island, where you find Westman Islands hotels and access to most things to do in the Westman Islands.

Parking at Landeyjahofn is free, but it is usually cheaper to leave your rental car on the mainland and travel as a foot passenger. Heimaey is compact and easy to explore on foot, which makes it convenient for joining guided Westman Islands tours.

If you are not traveling by car, public Straeto buses run directly from Hvolsvollur to the ferry terminal. Route 52 and the local Route 53 are timed to match ferry departures, which makes it possible to reach the islands without driving.

Where To Stay in Hvolsvollur

The accommodations in Hvolsvollur cover a small but varied range of travel styles. Options include centrally located hotels, countryside cabins, social lodges, and a well-equipped campground, depending on how you prefer to stay.

• Hotel Hvolsvollur: A centrally located, full-service hotel and the most established place to stay in town. Hotel Hvolsvollur offers comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant and bar, and outdoor hot tubs. Its location next to the Saga Centre and N1 station makes it especially convenient for travelers using Highland buses or public transport.

• Boutique Cabins and Bungalows: Ideal if you want more space and quiet than a hotel stay. Options such as Chalet 1 and Cottage Vesturbaer are set in the countryside around Hvolsvollur, offering dark skies for northern lights viewing in winter.

• Midgard Base Camp: A lodge that combines the feel of a boutique hostel with hotel-style comfort. Midgard Base Camp offers private rooms and well-designed dorms, lively communal spaces, a rooftop hot tub and sauna, and on-site tour services, which make it a popular base for hikers and travelers heading to Thorsmork.

• Hvolsvollur Camping Ground: A well-equipped campsite suitable for tents, campervan rentals, and budget travelers. Facilities include modern service houses with hot showers, cooking areas, and laundry. It is open from early March to October, with limited off-season services for self-contained campers.

Where To Eat in Hvolsvollur

Hvolsvollur has a small but practical food scene that fits well into a South Coast road trip. The places below offer reliable meals and casual dining options that travelers often look for when searching for the best restaurants in the South Coast.

• Midgard Restaurant: A lively, social dining spot inside Midgard Base Camp. The menu focuses on comfort food using local ingredients, with popular options like the Adventure Burger and Icelandic salmon, plus vegetarian and vegan choices. A relaxed bar atmosphere makes it a go-to place for an easy, social dinner.

• Eldsto Art Cafe: A family-run bistro where food is served on handmade pottery crafted on site. The menu focuses on home-style dishes, like lamb soup and fish and chips. After eating, you can browse the ceramic gallery, where pieces are glazed with volcanic ash from the Hekla area.

• Galleri Pizza: A casual, budget-friendly restaurant with a retro diner feel, popular for hearty portions and quick service. While best known for pizza, the menu also includes burgers, sandwiches, and fish and chips. Specialty pizzas like Pizza Lava and the Grand Supreme are especially popular.

• Mia’s Country Van: A small roadside food van known for freshly made fish and chips using local ingredients. It’s a simple, no-frills stop that works well for a quick meal between drives, especially if you want something casual without committing to a sit-down restaurant.

For a fast and affordable local favorite, you can also stop at the N1 gas station in Hvolsvollur, where they serve the classic Icelandic hot dog. It is an easy option if you are refueling or need a quick bite on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hvolsvollur

The answers to the questions below cover common planning details travelers look for when visiting Hvolsvollur, including seasonal conditions, events, and travel between nearby destinations.

How far is Hvolsvollur from Reykjavik?

Hvolsvollur is about 66 miles (106 kilometers) from Reykjavik. The drive along Route 1 takes around 1 hour 20 minutes to 1.5 hours in good conditions. By public Strato bus (Route 51), the journey takes roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes.

How long does it take to drive from Hvolsvollur to Vik?

The drive is about 50 miles (81 kilometers) and takes roughly one hour without stops along Route 1. Plan three to four hours if you want to stop at waterfalls, black sand beaches, or viewpoints along the route. Fueling up in Hvolsvollur is recommended before leaving town.

Can you see the northern lights in Hvolsvollur?

Yes. Hvolsvollur is an excellent location for northern lights viewing due to its low light pollution compared to Reykjavik. On clear nights between September and April, aurora activity is often visible just outside town, and many local accommodations offer wake-up alerts when conditions are favorable.

Is Hvolsvollur good for winter travel?

Yes. Hvolsvollur is accessible year-round via the Ring Road and is often the last reliable public transport point on the South Coast during winter storms. Its low light pollution also makes it a strong base for northern lights viewing between September and April.

Where do I catch the bus to Landmannalaugar or Thorsmork?

All Highland buses depart from the N1 gas station on Austurvegur in Hvolsvollur. Most services leave in the morning, typically around 9 AM, so booking in advance and arriving at least 15 minutes early is recommended.

Is Hvolsvollur a good base for the South Coast?

Yes. Hvolsvollur is more centrally located than Vik for visiting the major South Coast waterfalls, with Seljalandsfoss about 20 minutes away. It also offers easier access to the Highlands and the Westman Islands ferry, which makes it a practical base for multi-day itineraries.

Do I need a 4x4 to visit Hvolsvollur?

No. Hvolsvollur is directly on the paved Ring Road and can be reached with any standard car. A large, F-road–rated 4x4 is only required if you plan to drive yourself into the Highlands. Many travelers choose the Highland bus instead, which avoids river crossings and seasonal road risks.

Are there grocery stores and services in Hvolsvollur?

Yes. Hvolsvollur has a grocery store, gas stations, restaurants, EV charging, accommodations, and public transport connections, making it a convenient place to resupply before continuing east or heading inland.

Can you visit Thorsmork or Landmannalaugar as a day trip from Hvolsvollur?

Yes. During the summer season, Highland buses run daily from Hvolsvollur to Thorsmork and Landmannalaugar. This allows for day trips or multi-day hikes without driving F-roads yourself.

Is Hvolsvollur a good place to see the northern lights?

Yes. Hvolsvollur has low light pollution compared to larger towns, and open surroundings make it easy to find dark viewing areas. A short drive outside town provides clear horizon views, which improve visibility on active nights.

When does Kjotsupuhatid take place in Hvolsvollur?

Kjotsupuhatid, the Meat Soup Festival, takes place in late August, usually on a Saturday. Local businesses and residents serve free bowls of traditional Icelandic lamb soup around town. The day includes live music, local crafts, and a relaxed community atmosphere.

Why Hvolsvollur Is a Practical Base on Iceland’s South Coast

Hvolsvollur works well as a base on Iceland’s South Coast thanks to its central location and strong transport links. It provides easy access to major waterfalls, Highland routes, and the Westman Islands, while maintaining a quieter atmosphere than larger towns along the Ring Road.

The range of services, accommodations, and dining options supports both short stopovers and multi-night stays. Staying in Hvolsvollur helps streamline travel planning and reduces unnecessary driving between key sights.

For a South Iceland itinerary, it offers a practical balance of accessibility, infrastructure, and proximity to some of the region’s most important attractions. Choosing Hvolsvollur places you closer to the landscapes that define South Iceland, without the pressure of constant long-distance driving.