Hveravellir

A Geothermal Oasis in the Interior

The Kjölur route (F35) follows a corridor between Hofsjökull and Langjökull glaciers and is considered the easier of Iceland's two main highland crossing routes. It has no major river crossings and the road surface is better maintained than Sprengisandur.

The highlight of the Kjölur route is Hveravellir, a geothermal area where fumaroles, mud pots, and steaming vents punctuate the vast highland plateau. A natural hot pool sits among the geothermal features, offering a remarkable bathing experience in one of Iceland's most remote settings.

• Located midway along Kjölur (F35) route
• Natural hot pool at approximately 40°C
• Steaming fumaroles and active geothermal features
• Mountain hut with basic accommodation and a café
• Camping available during summer season
• No river crossings on the Kjölur route to reach it

The Kjölur Route

The Kjölur route has been used for centuries — medieval Icelanders crossed the interior on horseback to travel between regions. Driving it today remains one of the most memorable experiences available in Iceland, crossing vast empty spaces that feel more like another planet than part of Europe.

Kjölur connects Gullfoss in the south to Blönduós in the north. Allow a full day for the crossing, and never attempt it without checking current road conditions at Road.is.

• Southern access: Near Gullfoss on the Golden Circle
• Northern endpoint: Blönduós on the Ring Road
• Easier than Sprengisandur — no major river crossings
• Still requires 4WD with good clearance
• Highland bus runs along Kjölur in summer (Reykjavík Excursions)
• Check Road.is for current F35 conditions before departure

What to See & Do at Hveravellir

The geothermal area at Hveravellir covers a significant stretch of the highland plateau. Marked paths lead between the various features — always stay on the paths as the ground can be unstable and scalding beneath the surface.

• Bathing in the natural hot pool (approximately 40°C)
• Walking the marked geothermal field paths
• Fumaroles, steam vents, and boiling mud pots
• Striking contrast between lava-grey plateau and vivid geothermal colors
• Views of Hofsjökull and Langjökull glaciers on the horizon
• Birdwatching — ptarmigan common in the area
• Highland hut meals and hot drinks available

Planning Your Visit

Hveravellir can be visited as a stop on a Kjölur day crossing or as a dedicated overnight stay. The mountain hut provides a rare opportunity to spend a night deep in the highland interior.

• Access: F35 Kjölur route — 4WD mandatory
• Season: F-roads typically open June, close September–October
• Highland bus services from Reykjavík stop at Hveravellir in summer
• Mountain hut beds must be booked in advance (Iceland Touring Association)
• Carry all food and water you will need for the route
• No petrol available in the interior — fill up before leaving the Ring Road or Golden Circle
• Register travel plans at Safetravel.is