Hveravellir Hot Springs, A Fabulous Place

The Hveravellir hot springs are one of the most visited tourist destinations in Iceland. The natural environment in which they are found and their extraordinary beauty make them classified by many as the best on the planet.

In Hveravellir, the geological characteristics of the place transport the visitor to a dream world. At the same time, they provide the possibility of having an unforgettable experience of relaxation and cultural exchange with Icelanders.

Hot springs geology

Iceland is located between the Eurasian plate and the North American plate, so it has a high geological activity. In fact, its origin is the result of volcanic processes along the mid-Atlantic ridge; This results in the presence of more than 200 volcanoes, earthquakes and geysers.

In general, hot springs arise from the infiltration of water by cracking in different layers of the earth’s crust, which leads to an increase in temperature and a mixture with different types of minerals.

Thus, the water returns to the surface in the form of vapor, which, when condensed, recovers its liquid state. Among the most frequent uses of this type of water are therapeutic, recreational and natural sources of energy.

Hot springs in Iceland

The thermal waters of Iceland are distributed throughout the entire country, either in the form of natural or artificial pools, spas, geothermal spaces or the so-called “hot rivers”.

In Icelandic culture, hot springs are characterized as spaces for socialization and relaxation. For this reason, it is usual for these places to be frequented after work or used at any free time.

There are about twenty public geothermal pools in Reykjavik, in which silica treatments can be performed and they are free of charge. There are also spaces equipped with different types of amenities and with a variety of rates.

Likewise, it is possible to find natural places without infrastructure that can be accessed. There are crowded or solitary spaces, free or paid, natural or artificial … a complete range for all tastes. There are even tourist plans that establish routes to visit several of these places and that last several weeks.

History of the Hveravellir hot springs

Frequenting the hot springs is part of the Icelanders’ lifestyle and is a great opportunity if you want to get in touch with this society. Although most of these spaces are usable, some have high acidity or very high temperatures, so it is necessary to inform yourself when making a choice.

The history of the Hveravellir hot springs dates back to the year 900, when they were part of a route used by the Viking people. There is also information from the adventurers Eggert Ólafsson and Bjarni Pálsson, who recorded their passage in the blog in 1752.

Later, the Hveravellir hot springs were conditioned, improved and inaugurated as a tourist destination in 1950. At that time, a dam was also created that channels a hot river to supply circulating water to the complex.

Hveravellir: characteristics of its hot springs 

The Hveravellir hot springs are part of a volcanic system and at the same time a protected nature reserve that bears the same name. They are considered the most beautiful hot springs in all of Iceland.

Its waters present beautiful shades that oscillate between blue and green colors; In combination with deposits of gray, red or yellow mud, these make up an otherworldly landscape. Geysers of various sizes, among which the Öskurhólshver stands out, accompany this idyllic landscape.

A great variety of minerals are naturally dissolved in the Hveravellir hot springs . For that reason, bathing in them is healthy and therapeutic.

The Hveravellir hot springs offer pleasant temperatures, ranging between 18 ° C and 40 ° C. Surrounding these waters, there are mud pools of different colors, as well as extraordinary landscapes, fumaroles and several hot springs with bluish waters.

Location and reservations

The Hveravellir hot springs are located in the highlands of Iceland, 200 kilometers from Reykjavik, on the F35 track, which passes through Gullfoss. This is one of the most secluded places on the island, accessible only by 4 × 4 vehicles.

To visit this paradisiacal place, it is essential to make a reservation well in advance. Being able to enjoy these waters and marvel at the beauty of the Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers and Kjalhraun’s vast sea of ​​lava are just a few good reasons why it’s worth the wait.

The Hveravellir hot springs are part of what is called The Golden Circle, a route that is very popular with tourists, with about 300 kilometers in length. This starts and ends in Reykjavik and goes deep into Iceland.

In the Hveravellir reserve, there is the possibility of spending the night in the refuge or camping and you have access to a restaurant, changing rooms and bathrooms for a reasonable price. It also has showers and a parking area, among other services.

Accommodation rates per night, either at the campsite or at the shelter, range from US $16 to US $44, respectively. Finally, it is important to clarify that visiting the Hveravellir nature reserve carries the responsibility of not polluting and protecting it.