When is the best time to visit?

Summer (June-August) offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. However, each season offers unique beauty.

Is this place wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility varies by location. Major tourist sites often have paved paths, while more remote areas may require hiking.

Do I need to book in advance?

Most natural attractions in Iceland are open access and free. No booking is needed unless it involves a guided tour.

Iceland/south-iceland

Kerlingarfjöll

Kerlingarfjöll is a dramatic geothermal mountain range in the central Highlands, with steaming valleys, boiling mud pools and hillsides stained vivid orange, ye…

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At a Glance

Visit time

Half day to full day

Best season

Late June–September

Access

Off the Kjölur highland route (F35). 4WD required. Mountain lodge with accommodation and hot tubs.

GPS

64.6242, -19.2584

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About

About Kerlingarfjöll

Kerlingarfjöll is a dramatic geothermal mountain range in the central Highlands, with steaming valleys, boiling mud pools and hillsides stained vivid orange, yellow and green by hydrothermal activity.

Hveradalir valley offers stunning hot spring landscapes

Background

History & Background

The mountains are named after a legendary troll woman called Kerling — 'the old hag' — who according to folklore was petrified by sunlight while crossing the Highlands with her family of trolls. The area sits on one of Iceland's most intense geothermal systems. Mountains reach 1,477 meters and the range is one of the few places in Iceland where snow-capped peaks, colorful rhyolite hills and steaming vents all exist in one view.

Kerlingarfjöll is a remarkable natural-wonder in Iceland. Kerlingarfjöll is a remarkable natural wonder in Highlands. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that ma... Kerlingarfjöll — 'Old Woman's Mountains' — is one of Iceland's most spectacular and least-visited highland areas. Rhyolite mountains stained in vivid shades of orange, red, yellow and green rise around a geothermal valley where hot springs steam from. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Iceland's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Folklore

Story & Folklore

Kerlingarfjöll — 'Old Woman's Mountains' — is one of Iceland's most spectacular and least-visited highland areas. Rhyolite mountains stained in vivid shades of orange, red, yellow and green rise around a geothermal valley where hot springs steam from the ground and colourful mineral deposits festoon the hillsides. The hiking here is among the best in Iceland — varied, dramatic and almost completely crowd-free. The central valley called Hveradalir is the key destination: a surreal landscape of multi-coloured mountains, steaming vents and hot streams where you can bathe in natural pools. Kerlingarfjöll requires a 4×4 or the daily summer bus service from Reykjavík.

💡 Did You Know?

Mountain lodge provides accommodation and hot tubs

Local Legend

Legends of Kerlingarfjöll

Kerlingarfjöll has been part of Icelandic folklore for generations. Local tales speak of hidden people (huldufólk) and other supernatural beings who inhabit the area. According to tradition, this place deserves respect and visitors should be mindful of the ancient spirits who call it home.

Experiences