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Skælingar is a wonderful place to visit At some point in our lives, we all long for peace of mind. In such times, what could be a better companion than a peaceful place? There are places in the Icelandic Highland that are still and calm and where few people visit—where the only sound is a symphony created by small streams and songs from birds, which put you in a relaxed mode. One such place is the beautiful world of unusual lava formation at Skælingar—a place where everything seems untroubled, yet strange and exotic. It is a place that compels you to conclude that elves or creatures of another dimension actually exist and that you should not disturb them. Map of Highland in Iceland home of Skælingar Skælingar was at one point a farm: Skælingar lava field Although Skælingar is now part of the uninhabitable Icelandic Highland, it was a farm "up in the Morse" in the centuries following the settlement, before the devastating eruption of Skaftáreldar changed the area dramatically in 1783 and 1784. Skælingar is a part of the fascinating Eldgjá area. In Skælingar, there is an old cabin that once belonged to the farmers in this part of Iceland; it is one of many such cabins in Iceland that were used in the autumn in the sheep round-up, when farmers collected sheep from the Highland. It now belongs to the outdoor life association Útivist and is part of one of their hiking trails. The interesting lava formation: Enjoying the Skælingar natural wonder The lava that floods the surface during an eruption can take on many forms. Also, the lava changes over the years, decades, and centuries. In Iceland, lava from various eruptions around the country throughout its geological history is visible almost everywhere. Most of the lava today is covered with moss. This amalgamation of lava and moss is beautiful, as we can so easily see in Skælingar. Especially photographers might find it interesting that the moss displays varying colors after a dry week and a rainy week. The most exciting time to photograph moss in Iceland is on a sunny day after a few days of rain. How to get to Skælingar: Skælingar If you plan to visit Skælingar, you should plan to drive Nyrðri Fjallabak backland road. The best way to access the road to Skælingar is from Ring Road, some 23 kilometers west of the village Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Here, you take a turn north on Road Nr. 208 and drive approximately 20 kilometers until you take a right turn to cross the river Stangarkvísl. You then need to drive about eight kilometers on this road to reach Skælingar. If  you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip!

Stakkholtsgjá canyon Stakkholtsgjá is a stunning natural marvel located near Þórsmörk in the southern Icelandic Highland. The entrance to the canyon is flanked by towering, straight palagonite cliffs that rise 100 meters high. The two-kilometer trail leading to the canyon's end is one of Iceland's most fulfilling short hikes. Inside, a small creek flows over a bed of pebbles, enhancing the canyon's landscape. Although the path is uneven and crossing the river—sometimes with a considerable flow—requires caution, the hike itself is not especially difficult. Map of Highland in Iceland The palagonite cliffs have many forms—suspicious caves, shelves with vegetation, and deep and narrow ravines, to name a few. Once inside the canyon, you experience peace embracing your thoughts and simply can't avoid thinking of creatures from other dimensions. Toward the canyon's end, where it narrows down, the place becomes more exotic. Then, at the end of the track, the canyon turns into a very high cave open at the top. Inside the cave, dreamlike waterfalls enthrall you completely; as you look up to feel the magic of the waterfalls, they shower you with both light and drizzle. The canyon is one of those phenomena in nature that uplift your mood as you walk through, view, and experience them. Stakkholtsgjá is a perfect place to take kids: The hike in Stakkholtsgjá Stakkholtsgjá is a natural wonder that plays with your mind and imagination. It is not merely a beautiful place but a place that fills your head with vivid imaginations, right from the entrance. For example, you can't help thinking if this is one of those places where elves live and, as you get deeper into the canyon, if there might be less attractive creatures living there up on the cliffs; a picture of a troll climbing into one of those caves might pop up in your mind. This is one reason why Stakkholtsgjá is an excellent place to take kids, especially energetic kids with a lively imagination. It is one of those places Icelanders have loved and visited for many decades. Moreover, the place is just perfect for families to hike. However, although exceptional in every way and especially interesting for families for kids, caution must be observed, especially near the waterfall at the end of the cave. Access to Stakkholtsgjá is a bit difficult and requires a full-size 4X4 vehicle: The "cave" and the small waterfall inside the canyon Stakkholtsgjá Access to Stakkholtsgjá is not simple. It requires a 4X4 vehicle of the larger kind. From the Ring Road Nr. 1 in by the south shore, you turn north on Road Nr. 249, the same turn you take to see Seljalandsfoss waterfall and the road that takes you to Þórsmörk. When you continue on Road Nr. 249, you quickly enter F249, which is both rough and requires a river crossing. Overall, if done correctly and with caution, visiting Stakkholtsgjá in Þórsmörk is a great adventure. If  you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip!

One of those remarkable geothermal pools is Strútslaug (the Ostrich pool). Iceland is home to a variety of fascinating natural geothermal pools that are open to visitors. In the Icelandic Highland, many of the most impressive pools are situated in remote and rugged areas, making them challenging to reach unless you’re ready for a lengthy 4X4 drive followed by a substantial hike. These stunning sites showcase the unique juxtaposition of boiling hot geothermal springs alongside cold streams; at times, both types of water flow side by side. Occasionally, the hot and cold springs even merge, creating a natural pool filled with warm water in the middle of nowhere. One such captivating location is Strútslaug, known as the Ostrich Pool. The origin of this curious name remains a mystery, as there have never been any ostriches in Iceland. Map of Highland in Iceland Visiting Strútslaug geothermal pool takes some hiking: Strútslaug geothermal pool Strútslaug is one of the most remote geothermal pools accessible in Iceland, making it a destination that fewer people visit. The pool's temperature is ideal, and it is surrounded by breathtaking mountains near the source of the Hólmsá River. Located deep in the Highland, reaching Strútslaug requires a few hours' drive in a robust and well-equipped 4X4 vehicle. It is situated near the challenging highland road, Syðri Fjallabak, which can be difficult to navigate. If you're interested in exploring this part of Iceland, hiring a local guide is recommended. Near the stunning mountain Mælifell, there is a turn to the north toward Strútur Mountain and a nearby mountain hut. From the hut, it is approximately a seven-kilometer hike to the pool. In total, the hike and time spent enjoying the pool take about four to five hours. However, the time goes quickly as the trek takes you through the beautiful landscape surrounding Mount Strútur. How to go to Strútslaug: Strútslaug is one of my favorite places in Iceland To enter the area called Fjallabak Syðri, you can take one of six highland roads. All are difficult roads with rivers to cross or steep mountains to climb. One of the most accessible routes is from the Ring Road east of Vík, where you turn north on Hrífunesvegur (Road Nr. 209). Just a few kilometers up the road, you take a turn west on Öldufellsleið mountain road (F232). Near Brytalækir, a sign leads west to Mælifell mountain on Mælifellssandur. You then drive past the mountain Mælifell over the river Brennivínskvísl and take a turn north on the dirt road to Strútur. The whole trip is about 50 kilometers on a rough dirt road that requires a good 4X4 vehicle. If  you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip!

Tjarnargígur crater at Lakagígar in the Highland in Iceland The crater Tjarnargígur, commonly referred to as Pond Crater, is a remarkable geological feature that stands as a testament to the powerful volcanic activity that occurred during the notorious Skaftáreldar eruption of 1783–1784 in Iceland. This eruption is one of the most significant volcanic events in Icelandic history and is characterized by its extensive lava flows and the formation of numerous craters, including Tjarnargígur. This particular crater is part of a striking linear arrangement of craters that extends over an impressive distance of approximately 25 kilometers, showcasing the immense scale of the volcanic activity that reshaped the landscape during that period. Geology of Tjarnargígur The geological age of Tjarnargígur is relatively young, which contributes to the unique ecological characteristics of the surrounding area. The landscape here is predominantly composed of rugged lava formations, interspersed with patches of vibrant green moss that thrive in this harsh environment. The combination of freshly formed volcanic rock and the delicate moss creates a fragile ecosystem that is particularly sensitive to environmental changes. This sensitivity is not only due to the recent geological activity but also because the moss plays a crucial role in soil formation and stabilization in such a volatile landscape. Surrounding area of Tjarnargígur As one explores the vicinity of Tjarnargígur, it becomes evident that the interplay between the raw, rugged lava and the soft, lush moss creates a striking contrast that captivates visitors. The area is often marked by the remnants of past eruptions, offering a glimpse into the dynamic geological processes that have shaped Iceland over millennia. The craters, including Tjarnargígur, serve as important indicators of the region's volcanic history, providing scientists and geologists with valuable insights into the behavior of Iceland's volcanoes and the impact of such eruptions on the environment. More to do around Tjarnargígur Furthermore, the ecological significance of Tjarnargígur and its surrounding landscape is underscored by the presence of various plant species that have adapted to thrive in the challenging conditions created by the volcanic soil. These adaptations highlight nature's resilience and the ongoing process of ecological succession that follows such dramatic geological events. As time progresses, the area around Tjarnargígur continues to evolve, gradually transitioning from a barren volcanic landscape to a more diverse and stable ecosystem. Tjarnargigur crater close to Mt. Laki and part of Lakagigar Although there are many craters at Lakagígar, Tjarnargígur is one of the more impressive ones. One of the reasons is the water that forms a small pond within the crater. The water is pristine, and because of the small diameter and the 12-meter depth, the pond displays a beautiful turquoise color, at least on a clear day. Consequently, Tjarnargígur is quite photogenic and worth visiting if you plan a driving tour to Lakagígar and Laki. One of the most impressive natural wonders in the Highland: Highland map of Iceland Lakagígar (Laki Craters) is located in the middle of the Icelandic Highland. Like all places in the Highland, it remains open for only part of the year. Usually, the road opens in late June or in the first two weeks of July, depending on how fast the road dries up after the snow melts during spring. Most of the interesting places around Tjarnargígur and other craters were created in the Skaftáreldar eruption. There is a parking lot near Tjarnargígur with excellent facilities to take a halt and have a picnic. By the crater, there are two interesting walking paths: one to the pond and another, a bit longer, in the lava. Both have a mystical atmosphere as the whole surrounding along the way is unusual due to the peace and quiet one experiences while walking through lava covered with thick moss. It is on our list of places that are ideal for families and kids. Access to tjarnargígur is not easy and requires a 4x4 vehicle: Hiking to Tjarnargígur crater Tjarnargígur is located approximately six kilometers west of the Laki mountain. The road to Laki and Tjarnargígur is a rugged, difficult one with many rivers to cross and, therefore, fit for only a good 4X4 vehicle. Moreover, it requires a lot of patience to drive the road as your average speed for the whole 40 kilometers is probably under 30 kilometers per hour. The same applies to the drive back. You start your drive by turning north on the Ring Road Nr. 1 on the south shore near the small village of Kirkjubærjarklaustur. Here, you turn to Holtsvegur (Road Nr. 206). After driving just two kilometers, you turn north again to the Lakavegur (Highland Road Nr. F206). When you reach Laki, you turn west on the Highland Road F207 to go to Tjarnargígur. In summary, Tjarnargígur is not just a crater formed from a historical volcanic eruption; it is a vital piece of Iceland's geological and ecological tapestry. The interplay of lava and moss, the sensitivity of the environment, and the historical context of the Skaftáreldar eruption all contribute to the significance of this remarkable feature, making it a point of interest for both scientific study and tourism in Iceland. If  you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip!

Valagjá crater Valagjá is the name of a volcanic crater located near the mountain road Fjallabak Nyrðri or Landmannaleið in the southern part of the Icelandic highland. The geological term for the crater is " maar ," and it is similar to a few other craters, such as Víti, Grænavatn, and the nearby Hnausapollur and Ljótipollur , but without the water. (The meaning of the term "maar" is "explosion crater.") Although Valagjá might not be a major attraction, it is an interesting stop for visitors who are not in a hurry and are interested in geology and landscape. Valagjá is actually more than one crater. It is part of the Mount Hekla volcanic system and formed around the time of settlement, about 1200 years ago. Highland in Iceland map Landscape like you may envision on the planet Mars: North slope of Valagjá crater Upon reaching Valagjá, you sense a remote and isolated atmosphere. The area appears barren, with vegetation struggling to thrive. Valagjá features a landscape of sand, volcanic ash, rugged rocks, small hills, and mountains. Interestingly, the lava here exhibits various colors, creating a mystical ambiance. Walking along the edge offers a better view, but be sure to wear hiking shoes. The terrain is harsh and somewhat challenging to navigate, yet a short hike is rewarding. This landscape closely resembles the moon or a planet like Mars. In fact, it was this scenery that caught Ridley Scott's attention when selecting a location for his film Prometheus (2012). It is undeniably exotic, otherworldly, and unique. Like many destinations and natural wonders in the Icelandic Highlands, it differs from anything else on Earth. Landmannaleið road: Valagjá towards the west side When you drive from Reykjavík with a plan to drive Landmannaleið (Dómadalsleið), it is recommended that you rent a good 4X4 vehicle. On the southern part of the Ring Road, look out for the road Landvegur (Road Nr. 26) after you pass the bridge on the mighty river Þjórsá. You need to drive approximately 50 kilometers north, and by the mountain Búrfell, you take a right turn on Landmannaleið (Mountain Road Nr. F225). Another 15 kilometers of drive will get you to a split on the road with a sight pointing to Valagjá, which is only about two kilometers from this intersection. When you have made your stop, it is recommended to go back on F225 and continue on Landmannaleið, and along the way, you can stop at some fascinating places such as Rauðifoss, Ljótipollur, and, of course, Landmannalaugar. If  you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip!

Þórsmörk in the Highland in Iceland When you ask an Icelander about the most beautiful spot in their country, many will inevitably mention "Þórsmörk." This enchanting area stands out as a favorite destination for camping and exploration during the summer months, often topping the list of beloved locales in Icelandic nature. Its romantic allure rivals that of the esteemed National Park Þingvellir, even though it's nestled in the Highland. Þórsmörk is an oasis, beautifully sheltered by impressive rivers, mountains, ridges, cliffs, and glaciers. While classified as part of the Highland, its altitude isn't particularly high, allowing for a richer tapestry of vegetation than most Highland areas. Here, you'll find a stunning landscape filled with intriguing rivers, meandering creeks, towering peaks, gorgeous canyons, and exceptional hiking trails, as well as inviting camping sites. This picturesque region offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. An added thrill is its proximity to active volcanoes, which have recently let loose streams of glowing lava into some nearby canyons, enhancing its breathtaking beauty. Map of Iclandic Highland home of Þórsmörk oasis Þórsmörk is hiker's paradise: A view from Strákagil canyon to Básar camping area Þórsmörk boasts a variety of exceptional hiking trails that cater to all levels, from moderate to quite challenging. Among the most popular routes in Iceland are the Laugavegur hiking trail, which stretches from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk, and the Fimmvörðuháls trail, starting at Skógar and the stunning Skógafoss waterfall, also leading you to Þórsmörk. Both trails are renowned for their breathtaking views, as do many of the landscapes found within Þórsmörk itself. If you find yourself in this remarkable area, we highly recommend spending at least two to three days exploring the trails and soaking in the natural beauty that Þórsmörk has to offer. Accommodation and camping: Langidalur camping area from Valahnúkur Two Icelandic travel clubs carry out substantial operations during summer in Þórsmörk. In Básar, the travel association Útivist has a hut and a rather large camping area. All the facilities here are excellent, and wardens offer great service. Here, you can find exciting hiking trails and places to visit. Básar is a small valley on the east side of the river Krossá, which is very difficult to cross in any kind of vehicle. So Básar is a good choice for those who rent their large jeep to drive to Þórsmörk. The unpredictable and dangerous river Krossá During summer, there are walking bridges to cross the river, so you always have the option of hiking over to the other side of the river. Langidalur valley is on the west side of the river and operated by Ferðafélag Íslands, the Iceland Touring Association. It is also a great place to stay, and the service, both in the hut and at the camping site, is as good as it gets in the Highland. Here, you can also get all the information you need about hiking trails and places to visit. If you choose to stay in Langidalur, you should NOT and NEVER cross the river Krossá. It is a hazardous river, and if you have a vehicle that you think can cross the river, contact the hut in Langidalur before going ahead with the idea. Both Básar and Langidalur are excellent places to visit with a local guide as well as to take a bus and stay there for a few days. Like all the places in the Highland, Þórsmörk could be visited only in summer. Access is not easy and requires a good 4X4 vehicle : Þórsmörk is not a place to visit in a small car, even though the car might have some kind of 4WD Although it is pretty easy to find the way to Þórsmörk by taking a turn on Road Nr. 1 to Road Nr. 249, which also leads to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, the road to Þórsmörk is a rough and challenging one. As Road Nr. 249 continues from Seljalandsfoss, it turns into Mountain Road Nr. 249 within eight kilometers. From there, by the old bridge over the river Markarfljót, it is a rugged road that can be traversed only with a large 4X4 vehicle. There are some streams, creeks, and rivers you need to cross, and most of them can change from "small" to "big" in a heartbeat due to rain, temperature changes, and all kinds of climate-related matters. Driving to Þórsmörk in a small car is irresponsible and can be very dangerous. One of the best options is to take a bus if you don't want to go through the expense of hiring an excellent 4X4 vehicle or take a tour with an experienced tour company. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the type of car that would be best for your trip.

Hnausapollur is a maar People have various reasons for visiting a country like Iceland, known for its abundance of natural wonders, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Many tourists opt for organized tours that showcase the most popular attractions, which have gained global recognition. However, one of the great aspects of Iceland is that it also has numerous lesser-known locations that are equally intriguing, yet receive fewer visitors. These lesser-known spots are often fascinating both from a geological perspective and as breathtaking landscapes to explore. Some are even notable for their connections to history and folklore. Such unique places are ideal for landscape photographers and hiking enthusiasts. One example of this is Hnausapollur, which is sometimes referred to as Bláhylur. Highland map of Iceland Hnausapollur is on the road Sigölduleið to Landmannalaugar Hnausapollur was formed when lava came into contact with groundwater at the time of the eruption in 871 Like most volcanic craters with small lakes or ponds within their boundaries, Hnausapollur is a maar. It was formed when lava came into contact with groundwater at the time of the eruption in 871, about 1200 years ago, that occurred in both Bárðabunga and Torfajökull calderas simultaneously. It is a famous eruption because it transformed a large part of the Highland and happened at the same time as the beginning of settlement in Iceland. The ash from the outbreaks can be found almost throughout the whole island as it spread over a large area. Usually, the reason for a lake within a crater is the depth that goes down deep enough to reveal subsoil water or groundwater. This combination of water, crater, and vegetated brims is usually a beautiful sight where colors interact fabulously. Similar maar volcanic craters in Iceland are Grænavatn and Víti in Askja. Hnausapollur also has another name, often called Bláhylur, because of the turquoise blue color of the water. It is a Highland lake at an altitude of about 570 meters above sea level. You might think that this is a remote place, but don’t be surprised if you see someone fishing down in the crater. The lake has some life, although catching fish in it is pretty rare as the stream of water entering and flowing from the lake is all underground. Located on the Icelandic Highland road Fjallabak Nyrðri. Hnausapollur in autumn Hnausapollur might not be one of those natural wonders in Iceland worth a particular trip to the Highland , but if you are traveling on the Highland road Fjallabak Nyrðri or visiting Landmannalaugar on F208, it is a must to stop by Hnausapollur. It is the next-door neighbor of its similar brother bearing the awful name 'Ugly Pound’ or Ljótipollur . Both are extraordinary sights and perfect for photographing.

Hólaskjól camping site and home of Silfurfoss waterfall For those planning to drive the popular Highland road Nyrðri Fjallabak, Hólaskjól campsite serves as an excellent starting or ending point, depending on your travel direction. Nestled in picturesque surroundings near Eldgjá, a renowned canyon, and the Ófærufoss waterfall, this campsite offers a unique experience in nature. While the campsite features excellent facilities, it’s important to note that it operates more like a mountain hut, with fewer amenities than those typically found in urban campsites throughout Iceland. This aspect contributes to its distinct charm, providing visitors with an authentic mountain experience. In Hólaskjól, you will truly be immersed in the beauty of the mountains. Map of Highland in Iceland Start your Nyrðri Fjallabak drive at Hólaskjól We recommend driving from the east to the west when driving the Nyrðir Fjallabak mountain road. One of the reasons is that Hólaskjól is an excellent place to start your drive early in the morning. Another reason is the surrounding area. When you have settled in, there is a wonderful short hiking trail at Hólaskjól up by the river Syðri Ófæra. It is a good evening walk, and you will see small layers of interesting basalt columns, small ravines, a beautiful river, and a magnificent waterfall Silfurfoss. A short hike into the lava field that takes less than an hour is quite relaxing before you have a good night's sleep in the mountains. How to get to Hólaskjól Syðri Ófæra river If you plan to visit Hólaskjól, you are probably planning to drive to Nyrðri Fjallabak. The best way to access the road to Hólaskjól is from the Ring Road, some 23 kilometers west of the village Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Here you take a turn north onto Road no. 208 and drive approximately 16 kilometers until you take a left turn and enter the mountain road F208 Fjallabak Nyrðri. You need to go about 20 kilometers on this road to reach the Hólaskjól camping site.

Perlan in Hlíðar district in Reykjavík city Iceland Hlíðar is a central district in the city of Reykjavík, divided into three neighborhoods; Hlíðar, Háteigshverfi, and Öskjuhlíðarhverfi. It is almost all residential, with a small portion of the land area dedicated to commercial activity and educational institutions. The proportion of the district devoted to outdoor recreational activities is the highest in any area in the city. The district is the home of Klambratún, a small park for the residents to enjoy all year round. Hlíðar is a district in Reykjavík One of the best-known landmarks in Iceland is in Hlíðar District A bautiful condominium building in Hlíðar from the fifties Öskjuhlíð is where Perlan or the Pearl stands, probably the best-known landmark in Reykjavík apart from Hallgrímskirkja, the Hallgímur church. Originally the foundation of Perlan, the Pearl was built as a supply tank for geothermal heating in Reykjavík. In the eighties, the idea of a structure on top of the tanks developed and was implemented. The building was quite controversial but enforced with a determination by the Reykjavik mayor at the time, Davíð Oddsson. The project has proven to be a tremendous success. All the neighborhoods in Hlíðar are within walking distance from the city center. Hlíðar has many educational institutions and schools for Reykjavík The old school for fishermen is now a techical school Remarkably the first houses and buildings constructed within the district were built in the third decade of the twentieth century. The district has been in development ever since, and today, one of the larger housing projects in the city for a long time, has just recently been launched and is estimated to finish in a few years. Almost one hundred years after the first houses in the district were built. One of the best collage/highscool is in Hlíðar Recently the University of Reykjavík built a new building and headquarters on the south slope of Öskjuhlíð. This development in an area that had been a sanctuary for peace and quiet on the Nauthólsvík beach for a long time initiated a lot of traffic and activity in the Hlíðar district. Hlíðar is a high-quality area in Reykjavík with friendly neighborhoods Kjarvalsstaðir art museum in Hlíðar district in Reykjavík The quality of life for residents is probably one of the highest in any region in Reykjavík. There are high-quality schools from kindergarten to University. There is a short distance to all kinds of services and large commercial areas. Outdoor activity is readily available, and although quite near the city center, it is not a busy and noisy neighborhood. If  you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip!

Hagavatn lake There are eight main glaciers in Iceland. There are also many more smaller glaciers, but these are rapidly disappearing. Some of these glaciers have large glacier tongues, but there are only a few places in the Highland where you will find a large glacial lake or a lagoon by the glacier's edge. Among the better known glacial lagoons in Iceland are Jökulsárlón and Fjallsárlón on the south side of the Vatnajökull ice cap. Hagavatn is a lake that is fed by streams and meltwater from the glacier and from under the glacier. Located on the south side of Langjökull glacier, it is one of two such lakes connected with Langjökull with the other being Hvítárvatn. The main characteristic of these lakes is their milky color, and occasionally icebergs will fall into them from the glacier tongue. A very different landscape, kind of gray and lacking vegetation Glacial water lake south of Langjökull The Highland of Iceland has its own kind of attraction and fascination, with its vast horizon, black sands, and gray color. You will find places in the Highland with vegetation, moss, flowers, and grass, but they are infrequent and usually in small areas around spring-fed rivers. The Highland is a very different animal when it comes to beauty, with the area around Hagavatn lake being quite typical in that regard. The view from an altitude of 440 meters is magnificent; the mountain ridge Jarlhettur north-east of the lake is stunning, as are the lava field and landscape surrounding the lake. Also, you have the glacier in the background. If you are in Iceland and you want to see or photograph something different, we encourage you to visit Hagavatn and the waterfall Nýifoss. The landscape in this area can best be described as raw and harsh. Access is not easy and requires a large 4X4 vehicle Hiking to the lake Hagavatn Hagavatn is not far away from Gullfoss waterfall. If you continue north on Kjalvegur no. 35 from Gullfoss, you will drive 10 kilometers and come to a left turn (west) to Hagavatnsvegur no. F35. The same road leading to Nýifoss. This road, like many F roads in Iceland (mountain roads) require a well-equipped 4X4 vehicle. It is a Highland road and requires caution and preparation. We recommend stopping in the parking lot in front of the waterfall and walking the last few hundred meters as there is no point in driving up the steep and challenging part of the track up to the lake. If  you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip!

The new lava in the Highland and a place few dare to visit Holuhraun One of the contributing factors to the image of Iceland as an exotic place is the eruptions that occur regularly. If you plan on visiting the Highland in Iceland and if you are looking for things to do, one option is to visit the Holuhraun lava field. Holuhraun is the name of one of our latest eruptions, originating in a large fissure on the black sands north of the ice cap Vatnajökull or ‘Water Glacier’. This eruption occurred at the end of August 2014 and lasted for six months until the end of February 2015. The eruption produced an 85-square-kilometer lava field, making it one of the largest in Iceland's geological history. A quiet but massive eruption Scientists exploring the new lava in 2016 The eruption surfaced on sand deep in the Highland of Iceland, and it was a kind of silent eruption. The only threat was the highly toxic chemicals that came steaming out of the glowing lava, causing authorities in Iceland to ban visits to the volcanic fissure. This was the main reason the Holuhraun eruption did not develop into a tourist eruption like many recent examples in Iceland, like the Eyjafjallajökull volcano and the eruption in Geldingadalir at Reykjanes Peninsula in 2020. New rocks and stones that recently lived in a thousand-degree magma The very young lava at Holuhraun The result of this massive eruption is a large lava field in the midst of the Highland in Iceland. Here you can meet one of the youngest members of the entire planet’s geological family. Newly formed rocks and stones in a lava field that lived for ages in the glowing magma under the surface, and ironically under the ice cap Vatnajökull with more than one thousand degrees between it and the magma below. How to go to the Holuhraun lava field Hiking towards the new lava - still warm Visiting the new lava field requires a good 4X4 vehicle, since you need to drive on off-road tracks and cross rivers. Therefore, a modified 4X4 vehicle is recommended. Although there are a few options to drive to Holuhraun, one of the most popular is to drive the mountain road F88 from the Ring Road no. 1, a few kilometers east of lake Mývatn, and head to Herðubreiðalindir on a road called Öskjuvegur. South of Herðubreiðalindir, you take the mountain road F910 to the mountain huts at Drekagil, or ‘Dragon's ravine’. At Dreki, you also find a visitor center with a wealth of information about the Vatnajokull National Park. From Dreki, you continue on Road 910 to the lava field to enter a world of new rocks and stones in the Holuhraun lava. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the type of car that would be best for your trip.

The third day of eruption in Geldingadalir valley A volcanic eruption was recently recorded at the Geldingadalir valley, which is located at the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland. “Geldingadalir” is probably an odd-sounding word, that may be difficult for anyone other than Icelanders to memorize or pronounce. If an Icelander is tasked with translating the word into English to facilitate easier understanding by foreigners, they might find it slightly challenging, as the translation is not very straightforward. In fact, the word has more than one or even two meanings. Probable translations for the word “Geldingur” Eruption in Geldingadalir The word “geldingur” in Icelandic means a castrated man or a castrated animal. It is similar to the word “gelding” in English, which denotes a castrated male horse. However, in English, the word “eunuch” is used to denote a man who has been castrated. Along the same lines, a castrated ram is called a “wether” (not to be confused with the term “weather”) in English. The latter half of the word, “dalur”, means “valleys” (in plural). Thus, the word “geldingur” can be translated into English as “gelding valleys”, “eunuch valleys”, or “wether valleys”. Whose castration could the word “Geldingadalir” most likely refer to? Lava flow at Geldingdalir The Geldingadalir valley is located in the mountains, in a place that we could call as the highland of the Reykjanes peninsula. It is almost impossible to imagine that Icelanders could have ever castrated men on such a large scale so as to name valleys after the act. Such acts were very rare in Iceland’s history and may have probably been done to farm animals in farms or in brutal battles, possibly during the 12th and 13th centuries. If the word “Geldingadalir” was meant to denote castrated horses, such acts might have been done at farms, to tame the animals for farm use. In the same lines, if the word meant to denote castrated rams, such acts might have been done by farmers to improve the breeding of the species. Those days, during the summer, just like we do today, farmers used to round up their sheep, young and old, and leave the whole herd at the mountains. When autumn approached, they used to gather the sheep again from the mountains and flock them back to the farms. These farmers named valleys, mountains, hills, creeks, lava fields, and any other such landforms with words that were convenient to use as a reference, as they did not have any other form of geographic guidance as we do with the GPS today. Drawing an inference from this practice, we can conclude that the Geldingadalir valley was in some way connected to the rams that were castrated in the place. I assume that the small valley and its nearby valleys were used to house the “wethers” in a group, or maybe the rams tended to herd in groups in the valley, as they were shy and did not understand what the other rams were doing with the seeps. My suggestion for translation Geldingadalir winter and craters I feel that the most apt translation for the word “Geldingadalir” is “Wether valleys”. But of course, we prefer the non-translated version, “Geldingadalir”, which is, by the way, a lot easier to pronounce than “Eyjafjallajökull”. If  you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip!