Best things to do in Kerlingarfjoll

Kerlingarfjöll Essentials

Kerlingarfjöll is a 1,477-meter-high mountain range in the central highlands of Iceland, characterized by its distinctive rhyolite composition and intense geothermal activity. The area features Hveradalir, a valley filled with fumaroles, boiling mud pots, and steam vents. Key summits include Snækollur, the highest peak, and Fannborg. The Jökulfall river flows through the region, creating the broad Gýgjarfoss waterfall. The Highland Base serves as the primary hub for year-round access to the hiking trails and natural hot springs situated within the Ásgarður valley.

Kerlingarfjöll Essentials — Map

Bloody-libu / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Kerlingarfjöll

Mountain range.

B

Hveradalir

Geothermal valley featuring steaming vents, boiling mud pots, and orange rhyolite hills. Accessible via hiking trails from the Highland Base.

C

Gýgjarfoss

Waterfall on the Jökulfall River located along the F35 Highland Road. It drops approximately five meters over a wide, rocky ledge.

D

Sundlaug

Natural geothermal hot spring located in the Ásgarður valley. Fed by local hot water sources, it features a man-made stone enclosure.

E

Snaekollur

The highest peak in the Kerlingarfjöll range, reaching 1,477 meters. Offers panoramic views of the Hofsjökull and Langjökull glaciers.

F

Highland Base

Year-round accommodation hub offering lodge rooms, huts, and a campsite. Includes a restaurant and serves as the primary trailhead for the Hveradalir area.

G

Hveradalshnúkur

Rhyolite mountain peak overlooking the Hveradalir geothermal area, known for its steep slopes and vibrant mineral coloration.

H

Fannborg

Prominent 1,428-meter peak often covered in snow patches. It is situated between the Hveradalir geothermal area and the Snækollur summit.