I figured it was time for me to write a post about one of my favorite hikes to date. Big surprise, its in ICELAND. This hike to a hot spring river through the Reykjadalur Valley is an experience that you do not want to miss.
If you’re looking for a quick hike that you can do while staying in Reykjavik, i would highly recommend this one.
This is not a very difficult hike. I would say that it is accessible to people of most fitness levels.
Its about an hour drive from Reykjavik, and the closest town is Hveragerdi.
The name Reykjadalur translates to “Steam Valley”
Which is a very literal description of what you will experience on this hike.
Also, Be prepared to be smelling sulphur for the duration of this journey.
Most of the ascent is in the first kilometer of the trail, and then it levels out which makes for a lovely leisurely hike through the valley. It takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour one way.
After completing the initial ascent of the treck, you will come across a beautiful canyon to your left. Make sure to stop here and check out the beautiful waterfall in the valley.
Then, after meandering through these beautiful mountain valleys, you will begin to notice lots of little bubbling hot springs along side the trail. This means you’re very close to the river. Once you finally reach the river, and after you’ve adjusted to that yummy sulphur smell, you are rewarded with the best bathing experience ever!
As you can see in the image above, there are small stalls that you can change behind for a bit of privacy.
It was very cold and windy for the duration of the hike
And after stripping down to change in the cold wind, jumping into this hot river was the best reward.
It is a pretty indescribable feeling, being able to bathe in a completely natural hot river, surrounded by mountains. It is definitely an experience that you will never forget.
Though this isn’t a very lengthy hike at all, i would highly recommend taking your time once you arrive at the river. Pack a lunch and take time to enjoy the amazing natural surroundings.
Before doing this hike, I read a fantastic blog post by a lady named Regina – who posts for a site called “Guide to Iceland”.
Guide to Iceland is an excellent site with lots of great deals on tours/excursions etc. As well as lots of very helpful and informative blog posts. I highly recommend taking a peak before your visit to Iceland!
For more information on this hike, click the link below to read Regina’s Post on the Reykjadalur Valley!
https://guidetoiceland.is/connect-with-locals/regina/reykjadalur-hot-spring-valley-in-south-iceland
