Hveravellir geothermal pool
Updated: Apr 7
Hveravellir is a large geothermal area in the Icelandic Highland, located northeast of the glacier Langjökull and between the two glaciers Langjökull and Hofsjökull. It is a wonderland of steam, sulfur, colors, and hot water. It is situated close to Kjalvegur road, which is an old route and among the few that Icelanders used for centuries to travel between the north and south regions of the Highland. So, contrary to many places in the Highland, Hveravellir has a long history and is probably one of the best-known spots in the area. One probable reason for its fame is that during the summer, in one day you could travel on a horse to Hveravellir from Skagafjörður in the north and the second day to the area around Gullfoss in the south. It is a place most Icelanders know, and many have visited. Another reason is that, according to folklore, the highly admired outlaw couple Eyvindur and Halla had their home in Hveravellir for a while. Today, it is most likely a beautiful area with various hot springs with exciting names and an endless spectrum of activity and colors that draw people to it.
Kjalvegur is the best option to travel in the Icelandic Highland:
Hveravellir also has one of the most famous natural geothermal pools in Iceland. For anyone planning to visit Hveravellir, one of the best options is driving to Kjalvegur from Gullfoss waterfall, to the north, via Road Nr. 35. Here, while planning a trip, keep in mind that the road is open only from the end of June until the middle of September. It is covered with snow in the winter, and if you are planning to travel after mid-September, you should consult with Safetravel and check the road conditions. Although it is possible to drive the road in a small vehicle, it is not recommended. The road is often tough to drive, being a rough and harsh gravel road, and usually not well maintained to standards. Therefore, a 4X4 vehicle is highly recommended. The route is enjoyable with a magnificent view of glaciers, mountains, and highland lakes.
Access to Hveravellir is easy both from the south and the north:
The Highland Road Nr. 35 practically runs from Gullfoss and Geysir, two of the most famous landmarks and natural wonders in Iceland, to the Ring Road in the north. The drive length is about 170 kilometers, but the drive from Gullfoss to Hveravellir is approximately 80 kilometers. This is the easiest way to drive to Hveravellir. For most people who intend to drive this road and have not been here before, a visit to Hveradalir and Kerlingarfjöll is a must. In fact, stopping in Kerlingarfjöll for a night, hiking, and driving the next day to Hveradalir is a great choice.