Hot springs in Iceland are second to none warming your soul from the arctic climate, surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and often steeped in legend. Most of these cherished places are confined to a pool, but there exists one where an entire river is heated by the power of the earth.
Reykjadalur Geothermal River, known as the Valley of Steam, was quite possibly my favorite hot spring adventure – found in Southern Iceland only 40 minutes from the capital of Reykjavik. This has become an extremely popular site so to enjoy it in tranquility, visit as early as possible. You can use the GoogleMaps location: Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River, the last section is a gravel road manageable with any 2WD vehicle.
The Hike:
Roundtrip distance for this out and back hike is 4.3 miles, so you will have to hike just over two miles before you reach the river on a well marked path.
Always wear the proper gear and bring supplies. It is a moderate hike, easy actually for avid hikers gradually gaining 915 feet of elevation on what can sometimes be slippery volcanic gravel. Average trekking time is between 45-60 minutes to reach the river. The path begins crossing over a bridge and heading through a gate.
Right off the bat this is a beautiful walk, making good to its name steam was rising from the valley.
Along the way stop to marvel at a vista of the captivating Djúpagilsfoss Waterfall.
You will also pass by a geothermal site filled with hot springs and mud pools.
Be aware, this are not the bathing area and it is much too hot to touch these pools. Tread carefully remaining on the path.
There are plenty of signs around warning hikers of the danger of these scalding spots. Keep hiking until you reach the boardwalk, which is your otherworldly destination.
The Hot Spring:
A wooden path has been erected to protect the environment from being trampled and it is very helpful for dipping into the river, equipped with stairs. Also there are dividers which act as minimalist changing rooms and a place to hang your things. The river has many different temperatures, the further up you go the hotter it is, test out what is most comfortable for you.
It is a shallow flow so stones have been piled up to dam little lagoons, which are just deep enough to lie down in and lounge beneath the mountains.
Early in the morning we were lucky enough to have this slice of heaven to ourselves, it is worth setting your alarm clock for.
If you’re looking to make a day of it, trails lead further into the valley and become more difficult. With more to see and driving to do, we headed back to the parking lot reveling in the scenery after a perfect adventure.
Good to know:
+Free entry, carry in carry out and respect nature
+A restroom is available at the trailhead
+A restaurant called Dalakaffi is open seasonally at the trailhead
+Even if you don’t rent a car you can find a tour group to take you
Pro-tips for natural hot springs:
+Wear hiking sandals (and socks to keep your toes cozy if you want to be really fashionable) which makes changing easier, without sacrificing sturdy footwear on your walk to the hot springs.
+Wear clothes that are easy to change in and out of and your bathing suit underneath them.
+Earmuffs or a beanie will keep your head warm while you soak in Iceland’s cold environment.
+Don’t forget to bring a towel!
+A plastic bag is great to throw your bathing suit in after changing.