Steam vents and bubbling mud pools dot this remote geothermal site between two glaciers. Swim in a natural hot pool while viewing an ancient lava field 650m above sea level.
Hveravellir Nature Reserve lies between the Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers in Iceland's central highlands. At this geothermal site, you'll walk past the bright blue Bláhver spring, hear the powerful steam jets of Öskurhólshver, and swim in a natural hot pool while looking across an 8,000-year-old lava field. At 650 meters above sea level, the steam vents and bubbling mud pools create an otherworldly landscape in this remote highland location.
You'll find Hveravellir along the F35 highland road (Kjölur route) that connects North and South Iceland. From Reykjavik, drive 215 kilometers northeast, passing the Geysir area and Gullfoss waterfall. The road requires a 4x4 vehicle and remains open only from June to September, depending on weather conditions.
The main hot pool, created by damming a geothermal river in 1950, accommodates about 20 people. Water temperatures range from 18°C to 39°C, with much hotter water flowing through the intake pipe. While soaking, you'll look directly at the Kjalhraun lava field and surrounding glaciers.
Each spring in Hveravellir creates different colors and patterns. Steam bursts from Öskurhólshver with such force that you'll hear it from 400 meters away. Bláhver's still, bright blue water contrasts with the green tones of Grænihver. Small water jets shoot up from Bræðrahver and Eyvindarhver, reaching temperatures of up to 100°C.
The Kjalhraun lava field surrounding Hveravellir contains several marked walking trails. The three main routes - Green, Red, and Orange - start from the reception area at The New Hut. You can rent ATVs or horses to explore the area further.
In the 18th century, Iceland's famous outlaw couple, Eyvindur and Halla, made Hveravellir their home. They used the hot spring Eyvindarhver to cook their food. In 1998, a monument called "Prisoners of Freedom" was built to commemorate their story, featuring two stone hearts behind steel bars.
The New Hut functions as the reception and service center, with a restaurant and internet café. Facilities include restrooms and showers. Fill up on fuel before arriving as there are no gas stations nearby. Always stay on marked paths to protect the delicate geothermal area.
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