Hveravellir

Overview

Hveravellir stands as one of Iceland's most remarkable highland geothermal areas, situated at 640 metres elevation in the barren expanses between the Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers. This remote oasis combines powerful geological forces with stark highland beauty, featuring a collection of hot springs, steaming fumaroles, and colourful mineral deposits that create an otherworldly landscape in the heart of Iceland's uninhabited interior.

The geothermal field serves as a vital waystation on the historic Kjölur highland route, offering weary travellers a chance to soak in natural hot pools whilst surrounded by volcanic desert and distant ice caps. Hveravellir's significance extends beyond its geological wonders—it has provided refuge for centuries, from medieval outlaws to modern highland hikers, and today hosts one of Iceland's most isolated mountain huts alongside its pristine geothermal features.

What distinguishes Hveravellir from coastal hot springs is its complete remoteness and untamed character. The site encompasses over 100 hot springs spread across a 2-kilometre area, with water temperatures reaching 100°C in some areas, creating an authentic geothermal experience free from commercial development yet accessible to determined visitors willing to venture into Iceland's highland wilderness.

Quick Facts

- **GPS Coordinates:** 64.8694°N, 19.5361°W

- **Entry Fee:** Free

- **Opening Hours:** Accessible 24/7 (seasonal road access)

- **Best Time to Visit:** June to September for road access

- **Difficulty:** Moderate (F-road driving required)

- **Nearest Town:** Gullfoss (80km south)

- **Elevation:** 640 metres above sea level

- **Highland Route:** Kjölur (Route F35)

How to Get There

Driving

From Reykjavík, take Route 1 (Ring Road) east for 64km to Selfoss, then continue northeast on Route 35 towards Gullfoss for 70km. From Gullfoss, follow Route F35 (Kjölur route) north for approximately 80km to reach Hveravellir. The total journey covers 214km and requires 3.5-4 hours under good conditions.

The F35 is a well-maintained highland road but classified as an F-road, requiring a 4WD vehicle. River crossings are bridged, making it one of the more accessible highland routes. The road typically opens in mid-June and closes with the first significant snowfall, usually in October.

Parking

A designated gravel parking area accommodates approximately 40 vehicles beside the mountain hut. Parking is free with no time restrictions. During peak summer months (July-August), the area can become crowded, particularly during midday hours.

Access

The main geothermal features lie within 200 metres of the car park, accessible via well-worn paths across uneven volcanic terrain. The mountain hut and primary hot pools require a 5-minute walk from parking. Exploring the full geothermal field involves walking across rough ground for up to 1km.

What to See and Do

The crown jewel of Hveravellir is Blahver (Blue Spring), a circular hot pool with vivid blue water reaching 37-39°C—ideal for bathing. This natural pool, approximately 4 metres in diameter, maintains consistent temperatures year-round and offers spectacular views across the highland plateau whilst soaking.

Öskurhólshver presents Hveravellir's most powerful geothermal feature, a large fumarole producing continuous steam clouds visible from kilometres away. The surrounding ground displays vivid yellow and orange sulphur deposits, creating a Martian landscape that's particularly striking against the grey highland backdrop.

The Hveravellir mountain hut, operated by Ferðafélag Íslands, provides accommodation and basic services in this remote location. Even for day visitors, the hut serves as a landmark and emergency shelter, representing human presence in the vast highland wilderness.

Eyvindarhver, named after the legendary outlaw Eyvindur, offers another soaking opportunity with slightly cooler temperatures of 35-37°C. The historical connection adds intrigue—Eyvindur and his wife Halla supposedly lived in these highlands for decades, using the hot springs for survival during harsh winters.

Beyond the main springs, dozens of smaller hot pools, mud pots, and steam vents create an extensive geothermal wonderland. The mineral-stained ground displays every colour from pristine white silica to deep red iron oxides, providing exceptional photographic opportunities.

Best Time to Visit

**June:** Road access begins mid-month. Cooler temperatures, possible snow patches, but fewer crowds and dramatic highland scenery.

**July-August:** Peak season with warmest weather, midnight sun, and full road accessibility. Expect crowds, particularly on weekends. Best conditions for camping and extended exploration.

**September:** Excellent compromise between accessibility and solitude. Cooler weather, potential northern lights, and autumn colours in surrounding vegetation. Road conditions remain good early in the month.

**October-May:** Road closed to regular traffic. Accessible only via super jeep tours or cross-country skiing expeditions for experienced adventurers.

Highland weather changes rapidly regardless of season. Even in summer, temperatures can drop below freezing at night, and snow is possible year-round at this elevation.

Safety

F-road driving requires 4WD vehicles and highland driving experience. Always check road conditions at road.is and weather forecasts before departure. Fuel availability is non-existent between Gullfoss and Akureyri—ensure sufficient fuel for the entire journey plus reserves.

Geothermal hazards include unstable ground around hot springs and water temperatures exceeding 100°C in many features. Test water temperature carefully before entering any pool, and never venture onto white or colourful ground that may indicate thin crust over boiling mud.

Weather conditions can deteriorate rapidly in the highlands. Carry appropriate clothing for freezing temperatures, strong winds, and precipitation even during summer visits. Mobile phone coverage is non-existent.

Always inform someone of your travel plans when visiting highland areas. Emergency communication is available via the mountain hut during staffed periods, typically June through September.

Nearby Places

**Langjökull Glacier** (30km west): Iceland's second-largest ice cap offers glacier tours, ice tunnels, and snowmobile excursions accessible from the highland route.

**Gullfoss Waterfall** (80km south): The iconic golden waterfall provides a dramatic conclusion to highland adventures, with full visitor facilities and easy road access.

**Kerlingarfjöll** (45km northeast): A rhyolite mountain range featuring extensive geothermal areas, hiking trails, and accommodation at a mountain resort accessible via F-roads.

**Geysir Geothermal Area** (95km south): The original geyser and Strokkur's regular eruptions offer contrasting geothermal experiences combined with the famous Golden Circle route.

**Þórisvatn Reservoir** (60km east): Iceland's largest lake by area, created by damming for hydroelectric power, marking the transition from Kjölur to the Sprengisandur highland route.

Getting around Iceland is easiest by car. Compare rental options and find the best deals on Discover Cars — free cancellation available.

Planning a trip to Iceland? Make sure you travel with peace of mind — SafetyWing offers flexible Nomad Insurance from $56.28/4 weeks, covering medical emergencies, trip interruptions, and adventure activities. Perfect for Iceland's unpredictable weather and remote landscapes.