Reykjadalur (meaning "Steam Valley") is a geothermal hiking destination located approximately 45 kilometers east of Reykjavík near the town of Hveragerði. The valley contains a natural hot river where you can bathe in warm geothermal water surrounded by mountain scenery.
The area sits within an active geothermal zone characterized by fumaroles, mud pools, and hot springs that have formed over millennia of volcanic activity. Local residents have used the valley's thermal features for centuries, though it only gained popularity as a tourist destination in recent decades as Iceland's visitor numbers increased.
You'll hike approximately 3.5 kilometers one way from the trailhead to reach the bathing area, with an elevation gain of around 200 meters. The trail takes 45 to 60 minutes each direction, crossing wooden bridges over streams and passing numerous steaming vents and hot springs. The path can be muddy and slippery in sections, requiring sturdy waterproof hiking boots.
Once you reach the bathing zone, the river stretches for several hundred meters with temperatures ranging from 37 to 40 degrees Celsius in most sections, though some areas are hotter. You can wade upstream or downstream to find your preferred temperature, and wooden changing facilities provide shelter for storing belongings and changing into swimwear.
You can reach the Reykjadalur trailhead by driving to Hveragerði via Route 1 (the Ring Road), then following signs through town to the parking area at Dalasels. The drive from Reykjavík takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes. Strætó bus route 51 runs between Reykjavík and Hveragerði, though from the town center you'll need to walk an additional 2 kilometers to reach the trailhead. Some tour operators offer day trips from the capital combining the hike with other South Iceland attractions.
Parking at the trailhead costs ISK 700 for up to 5 hours and ISK 1,000 for longer stays, payable through automated machines accepting credit cards. The parking area accommodates approximately 150 vehicles but fills completely during summer peak hours. Access to the trail and bathing area is free beyond parking fees. You must bring swimwear, a towel, and warm clothing for after bathing, as facilities are minimal.
Reykjadalur (meaning "Steam Valley") is a geothermal hiking destination located approximately 45 kilometers east of Reykjavík near the town of Hveragerði. The valley contains a natural hot river where you can bathe in warm geothermal water surrounded by mountain scenery.
The area sits within an active geothermal zone characterized by fumaroles, mud pools, and hot springs that have formed over millennia of volcanic activity. Local residents have used the valley's thermal features for centuries, though it only gained popularity as a tourist destination in recent decades as Iceland's visitor numbers increased.
You'll hike approximately 3.5 kilometers one way from the trailhead to reach the bathing area, with an elevation gain of around 200 meters. The trail takes 45 to 60 minutes each direction, crossing wooden bridges over streams and passing numerous steaming vents and hot springs. The path can be muddy and slippery in sections, requiring sturdy waterproof hiking boots.
Once you reach the bathing zone, the river stretches for several hundred meters with temperatures ranging from 37 to 40 degrees Celsius in most sections, though some areas are hotter. You can wade upstream or downstream to find your preferred temperature, and wooden changing facilities provide shelter for storing belongings and changing into swimwear.
You can reach the Reykjadalur trailhead by driving to Hveragerði via Route 1 (the Ring Road), then following signs through town to the parking area at Dalasels. The drive from Reykjavík takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes. Strætó bus route 51 runs between Reykjavík and Hveragerði, though from the town center you'll need to walk an additional 2 kilometers to reach the trailhead. Some tour operators offer day trips from the capital combining the hike with other South Iceland attractions.
Parking at the trailhead costs ISK 700 for up to 5 hours and ISK 1,000 for longer stays, payable through automated machines accepting credit cards. The parking area accommodates approximately 150 vehicles but fills completely during summer peak hours. Access to the trail and bathing area is free beyond parking fees. You must bring swimwear, a towel, and warm clothing for after bathing, as facilities are minimal.
Reykjadalur is about a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik. You can reach the trailhead near Hveragerði by car or by taking a bus to Hveragerði and walking to the start of the hike.
The hike to Reykjadalur Hot Springs is moderately challenging. It takes about 45-60 minutes one way and involves some elevation gain. The trail can be muddy or slippery, so good hiking shoes are recommended.
Yes, it is safe to bathe in the designated areas of the hot springs. However, be cautious of varying temperatures and avoid areas with boiling water or steam vents.
There are no facilities like changing rooms or restrooms at the hot springs. You’ll need to change in the open, so bring a towel or cover-up for privacy.
Reykjadalur is popular, especially during the summer months. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the evening. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
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