Every few minutes, the Strokkur geyser erupts in the Geysir geothermal area. This rhythm adds a striking feature to Sudurland, where attractions range from geothermally shaped landscapes and highland trails to archaeological and political sites.
Geothermal Energy and Highland Trails
Landmannalaugar is known for its colorful rhyolite mountains and geothermal hot springs. An extensive network of trails ranges from short loop walks to multi-day treks; Landmannalaugar is also the starting point of the Laugavegur Trail. This range of options helps you choose how much hiking to do: short loop walks and multi-day treks involve different time commitments.
Þórsmörk offers a different focus: this nature reserve lies in the southern highlands among glaciers, rivers and rugged mountains; well-marked trails lead to viewpoints, ravines and river crossings. In contrast, Landmannalaugar’s trail network ranges from short loop walks to multi-day treks, while in Þórsmörk the trail destinations help guide your choices. Trail conditions can vary; check the latest conditions before setting out.
The Fjallabak Nature Reserve was established in 1979; Landmannalaugar lies within the reserve.
Water, Geology and History
At Seljalandsfoss, a footpath runs behind the waterfall. Together with Strokkur, it offers a contrast in the kind of nature experience: at the geyser, the recurring eruption is the defining feature; at Seljalandsfoss, it is the path behind the waterfall. Local access conditions at Seljalandsfoss can vary; check the latest conditions before your visit.
At Þingvellir National Park, visitors can walk between tectonic plates and explore the birthplace of Iceland’s parliament. Iceland’s Alþing assembly met annually at Þingvellir from around 930 AD until 1798. Þingvellir was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 for its cultural value.
In Þjórsárdalur are the remarkably well-preserved ruins of the Viking Age longhouse at Stöng. They were presumably buried by the eruption of Hekla in 1104. A reconstruction of the farmstead, Þjóðveldisbærinn, offers insights into medieval Icelandic life.
The plane wreck at Sólheimasandur is a more recent relic visited by tourists. Compared with the ruins at Stöng, it shifts the focus to more recent history.
Iceland in a Broader Context
Iceland has three national parks in total, each with its own special attractions. Vatnajökull National Park is one of two national parks in Sudurland. Iceland’s national parks make natural and cultural heritage more accessible through trails, visitor facilities and information.
Iceland includes the only section of the actively spreading Mid-Atlantic Ridge visible above sea level. At Þingvellir National Park in Iceland, visitors can enjoy walking and hiking trails, guided hikes, fishing and snorkeling; Vatnajökull National Park offers visitors hiking.
Iceland’s geothermal bathing culture includes more than 120 swimming pools; most are heated with geothermal water from deep underground boreholes. Geothermal swimming pools in Iceland stay warm and inviting all year round.
Discover more destinations: Selfoss, Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Hella, Vestmannaeyjar, Hveragerdi, Flúdir, Vík Í Mýrdal, Laugarvatn, Laugarás, Eyrarbakki, Stokkseyri, Kálfafell, Hvolsvöllur, Skálholt, Villingaholt, Ólafsvellir, Skeiðflötur, Vestmannaeyjabær, Hruni, Ásólfsskáli, Grafarkirkja, Keldur, Búðarhólshverfi, Háfur, Sólheimar, Stóri Núpur, Úlfljótsvatn, Grimsnes, Þykkvibær, Blaskogabyggd.
For the broader travel overview: Iceland.
