Iceland is open for travel: Volcanic eruption in Iceland 2024
Reykjadalur Valley is an active geothermal area famed for its hot spring river near Reykjavik. It’s located close to the town of Hveragerði in South Iceland. Relax in Reykjadalur’s hot spring thermal river after an hour-long hike through top Icelandic nature!
A hiking trail found not far from Hveragerði will take you 3.5 km through majestic mountain scenery and hot spring areas towards Iceland’s hot spring river at Reykjadalur. Bathing in the hot river will surely relax and rejuvenate those tired muscles.
Rest in the shallow water and take your time to absorb the spectacular natural vistas which surround you – allow Icelandic nature to work its magic upon you!
Reykjadalur is an interesting name that’s a blend of two words: “reykja,” which means “smoke,” and “dalur,” meaning “valley.” With the plumes of steam rising from the earth being visible over long distances it is no wonder that this valley is so named! Nearby Hveragerði is sometimes said to be the hot spring capital of the world.
Reykjadalur can be found in the south of Iceland and is close to a little town called Hveragerði, which is 39.4 km from Reykjavík. Having Hveragerði close by can be very handy as there are all types of services including a supermarket, restaurant, and gas station.
You can also find an information center at Hveragerði if you want further information about the area.
Interestingly, the valley’s geothermal water is used for cooking in certain cafes and restaurants. This is truly an all-around natural geothermal experience.
GPS coordinates of Reykjadalur: 64.0229° N, 21.2116° W
If you are traveling from Reykjavik, it doesn’t take too long to get to Reykjadalur at all. Being a shorter hike and so close to Reykjavik, this is a great day trip.
The hiking route can be found by driving through Hveragerði on the Ring Road heading in the south direction. It’s about an hour away from Reykjavik. After this, a gravel road will allow you to reach the parking lot, this is where your adventure begins.
Reykjadalur, known as ‘Smokey Valley,’ is a popular hiking destination where you can experience the beauty of Iceland's geothermal wonders. The hike starts at the car park and can get quite steep for about 45 minutes as you work your way up a small dirt road. Along the way, you'll come across a borehole named Drottningarhola, a perfect spot for photos.
As you hike, you’ll spot the beautiful Djúpagilsfoss Waterfall on the left. This small but stunning waterfall flows over the valley into the Djúpagil Canyon, creating a picturesque view. Djúpagilsfoss, meaning the Deep Gorge Waterfall, adds a charming touch to the surrounding gorge. For those not afraid of heights, capturing an image of this waterfall is a must.
Djúpagilsfoss waterfall is commonly reached by visitors hiking in the Reykjadalur Valley.
After about an hour and 15 minutes of walking from the car park, you arrive in Klambragil hot river, the main attraction. The area is organized into small independent pools with rocks stacked to separate them. Wooden docks follow the river for several hundred meters, and there are wooden changing rooms.
The higher upstream you go, the hotter the water, so you can find the perfect temperature for everyone. Most visitors stay a good hour enjoying the relaxing hot current after a good walk.
Remember to stay on the paths when necessary, as there are many boiling hot pools that can be dangerous. The return hike is easier and almost all downhill, taking about an hour to reach the car park via the same 3.5 km route. Enjoy the hike and the natural beauty of Reykjadalur!
During recent years, The Reykjadalur trail had to be closed several times to visitors to protect the vegetation from damage. Visitors have left litter and bathing suits around the site. In muddy conditions, people walked off the trail, causing extensive damage to the vegetation.
Please, don’t leave anything behind – not even footprints! There are no trash cans, changing cabins or toilets in the area. Make sure that you can handle a few hours without a toilet stop.
Planning to spend the whole day in the valley? Be sure to plan where you'll stay as well. The hotels, guesthouses, and hostels listed below are the best places to relax and unwind after a long day of hiking.
Guesthouses and Hostels
Hotels
Camping
The closest campsite is located in Hveragerdi. The campsite is open all year round and offers fine facilities including electricity, toilets, running hot and cold water, showers, a hot tub, a swimming pool, washing machines, tumble dryers, a playground, and a BBQ.
Please note that wild camping is forbidden in the Reykjadalur area and along the entire South Coast. Campers of all types are obligated to use the designated campsites.
The main thing that you need to be prepared for in the Winter is the weather. It is so unpredictable and can become dangerous quickly if you are not experienced hiking in conditions such as heavy rain and snow showers.
The other problem that you might face is icy paths and this will limit how high you can climb and if you can get back down safely. Make sure you are fully aware of the weather conditions and how they may affect your hike.
If you are in luck then you may well be in for a chance to seeing the Northern Lights. It has to be very clear weather and a high amount of solar activity to be able to see them. It also has to be very dark so it may not be the safest of places to try and see them on this hike.
If the wonders of Reykjadalur Valley aren’t enough for you, the surrounding attractions make incredibly convenient stops on a longer route through Iceland. Whether you’re making time to visit from the main highway or the Golden Circle, there’s plenty nearby to see and do, including: