Ask any random group of ten people visiting Iceland for the first time why they are going and there is a very good chance that hot springs are on the list. You can certainly find hot springs in other countries, even the United States! – But there’s something about actually having to work for your soak that makes it that much more of an adventure.
There are many hot springs in Iceland that do not require any kind of walking: Blue Lagoon, Myvatn Nature Baths, The Secret Lagoon; the list goes on. But the Reykjadalur River is one of those places that you will only find in Iceland. Long after your trip, you will find that your mind returns to this place when you need a particularly relaxing time to revisit.
The only thing you need to know before visiting Reykjadalur is that it is a compromise. You certainly cannot see your final destination from the parking lot; There is a little hike involved. Hikers will be rewarded with a more authentic version of Iceland’s hot springs, making the hike worth a bit of time and effort.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Iceland’s Reykjadalur River Valley.
Why is it worth a visit
Hot springs are such a massive part of Icelandic culture, and all of Scandinavian and Nordic. It’s a place to catch up with loved ones, get out in nature, and sometimes get some exercise. It is something that you absolutely must experience on your trip to Iceland. You may get a general idea of the hot spring ritual at more commercial spas like Blue Lagoon, but Reykjadalur is a great option for those looking for something a little more authentic and off the beaten path. Bottom line: you will find locals walking to Reykjadalur on any day.
There is also a little hike involved, which sets this hot spring region apart from the others. There are no official changing rooms, you have to work to relax, and there are many incredible views of the river valley to see on the way to the hot springs. If there’s a hot spring you have time for, let it be this one.
How to get there
The Reykjadalur Valley is located about 45 minutes east of Reykjavik by car. It is a simple unit consisting of a single road: Þjóðvegur 1, Iceland’s main road that runs around the entire country. Once you get closer to the town of Hveragerði, you will start to see signs for the town’s geothermal park. From there, you are very close. Follow the signs for Reykjadalur and you will find yourself in a parking lot.
What to expect
The parking lot is large and there is also a bathroom on site. We recommend visiting the facilities before your hike down to the river – the views tend to make the hike longer than you expect.
With the path at your back, follow the gravel path that takes you up the mountain. There will be some small geysers (some just appear as boiling pits of muddy water) along the way into the valley. The walk will take you a while: around 40 minutes to an hour. There is a bit of elevation gain so prepare accordingly. Bring a bottle of water and fill it up on the way in the mountain streams – it’s safe to drink from it.
The path is made of loose gravel in places so be careful. It’s easy to lose your balance and while there is plenty of room for hikers walking both ways, you never want to trip. At the beginning, there are sections of the hike that open up into sweeping panoramic views of the river valley – beautiful and disorienting too.
As you get closer to the hot springs of the river, you will notice that the smell of sulfur becomes stronger. There is more geothermal activity as you walk down the valley; the appearance of a handful of geysers proves it. Just before you hit the hot springs, and you won’t really see the full true view until you’re just a few steps away, you’ll cross a bridge that is often hidden in the steam from nearby geysers. Be prepared for some strong smells.
The hot spring river is exactly what it sounds like: a river with water warm enough to soak in. One important thing to know is that the first piece of the river that you will find is much colder than the previous section. There is a boardwalk that follows the river – walk the wooden boardwalk to the warmer sections. It is warmest at the end of the wooden walkway and cooler where you first find it at the end of your hike. It gets pretty hot at its source, so be careful.
If you don’t like to change in public, wear your bathing suit to go to the hot spring river. There are wooden partition ‘screens’, but they do not provide complete privacy. In Iceland, nudity is not a big problem and you will often see people changing along the boardwalk behind these wooden walls.
You will most likely be accompanied by tourists and locals alike. It is a popular spot for local runners and cyclists looking for a quick rest before heading back on their adventure.
The best time to visit
While you can visit during the winter, the hiking conditions will be much more pleasant during the warmer months. Something to keep in mind: you will run into far fewer bugs on the hike when there is a little chill in the air. There are usually clouds of small mosquito-like insects that dive into hikers on the way to the river. The return is much easier on all accounts.
Security advice
Wear proper footwear. This is no place for flip flops or any type of shoe that is not meant for walking. As mentioned above, there are sections of the trail that are made of loose gravel and you may have to cross some wet rocks. Better safe than sorry. Also, don’t forget to wear sunscreen or a tissue to put in your mouth (to keep insects away) if you visit during the summer, and always walk with a friend.
