A startlingly beautiful place encircled by majestic shorelines, Iceland is a land overflowing with natural wonders. With amazing sights like ice caves and waterfalls, this makes a marvelous destination for hikers and nature lovers. The best part is, there are several perfect hiking opportunities near the capital city of Reykjavik. Hiking in Iceland is to be surrounded by frozen beauty, where the northern lights can sometimes even be seen during daylight hours.
Glymur
Glymur is home to Iceland’s second highest waterfall, a 650-foot drop. It long held the top spot until the recent discovery of another waterfall in the Vatnajokull glacier region that edges out Glymur by less than 10 feet. Located about an hour drive from the capital city near the Hvalfjordur Fjord, you’ll make your way on foot to a deep canyon carved by the falling water. While not a difficult hike, it holds a few challenges (like stream crossings), but you will be rewarded with stunning views.
Hveragerdi
Just 45 minutes from Reykjavik is a real tourist hot spot. Geothermal hot springs are the big draw to Hveragerdi, a spot where gardening is the top activity for the locals. Thanks to the town’s location atop a hot spring field, there are trees and flowers galore. A number of well maintained footpaths and walkways surround this tiny town, stretching from the town into the neighboring Hengill volcanic area and Pingvellir National Park. Take a dip in the hot springs following your hike!
Gjain
Just under two hours drive from Reykjavik, Gjain is reputed to be the most beautiful spot in Iceland, and with good reason. The Red River flows through to cascade down a short drop and pool in the valley below. While not a large fall, it is regal nonetheless, surrounded by a lush landscape. A short hike of about 15 minutes from the falls will bring you to the ruins of a Viking settlement called Stong. For you Game of Thrones fans, large portions of the 4th season of this popular saga were filmed using the rugged majesty of Gjain as a backdrop, as well as some integral battle scenes.
Check out this short video for a glimpse at what hiking in Iceland holds for the adventurous soul.
Featured Image from Alexander Milo/Unsplash
